Mahindra Bolero : After total domination of Indian roads for more than two decades, the iconic SUV Mahindra Bolero is back in the market with a new face.
The latest facelift carries all the reputation of ruggedness, reliability, and affordability and incorporates modern design touch-points that will suit the desires of contemporary consumers.
Indeed one of the stalwarts of the Indian automobile industry, Mahindra & Mahindra has, as always, spruced up the best-seller from its stable in a dosage of tradition and innovation.
A Legacy of Durability-
Arguably, the Mahindra Bolero was synonymous with ruggedness and utility right from the word go when it first rolled off the line in early 2000.
It was a quick moverwhere the need was for a strong low-maintenance vehicle to handle the basic rugged terrains and poor road conditions.
Such is Balmer’s solid build quality-a strong chassis combined with a strong engine, making it every farmer, businessman, and government agency’s favorite.
Though it had to be upgraded from time to time through the years, core Bolero attributes such as reliability, durability, and a no-nonsense attitude to motoring have never changed.
It is now this stalwart’s turn to get a brand new facelift bestowed upon it by Mahindra, thus adding another new chapter of fresh newness to its Bolero story-a confluence of rugged performance with modern day features and design.
Exterior: A Strikingly New Look
Change-wise, the most visible change to the new Bolero is on the outside. Mahindra has aptly managed the merging of the more conservative boxy silhouette with a far more aggressive and modern language of design.
The front fascia, compared with its predecessors, has been totally transformed yet a new grille reveals Mahindra’s new bold logo with sleeker, sharper headlamps having integrated DRLs.
The new design gives the Bolero much more commanding road presence and updated, stylish aesthetic.
The bumper gets new musculature along with a harder stance and, along with new fog lamps, enhances vehicle visibility and aesthetics. Side cladding and bigger wheel arches with a new set of alloy wheels make Bolero look sportier.
Though the rear end has been kept pretty box-like, tail lamps feature LEDs and a more refined design of the tailgate.
These updates ensure that the Bolero retains all of its classic character but it now looks more refined and contemporary so it caters to both the urban driver and the rural enthusiast.
Interior: Where Comfort Meets Practicality
Inside, the new Bolero offers a cabin that is much more uptown and comfortable. Mahindra has worked at enhancement of aesthetics as well as functionality within the cabin.
The rich new dual-tone dashboard lends a sophistication element to it, while premium quality materials all across the cabin add a feel of opulence.
The seats are even more ergonomic in nature, working to provide better support and comfort on long drives. The upholstery has also been upgraded, it is now plusher.
Then there is information system that is now bigger and also got the facility of a touchscreen display that can give connectivity to your smartphone, Bluetooth, and navigation.
The company has added several convenience features as well, such as power windows, rear parking camera, and a multi-functioning steering wheel with audio controls and call within it.
And this new Bolero promises a lot more comfort and functionality than one can imagine along with an automatic climate control and better sound system.
Performance: Power Meets Efficiency
Inside the bonnet nothing has been changed yet, and this new generation of Mahindra Bolero still finds its power source from the dependable 1.5-liter mHawk diesel that Mahindra has always used.
This three potter produces 75 horses and 210 Nm force making it a perfect car for city as well as off-road adventure trips. Transmission has been used similar to the previous stage which offers smooth decent power delivery.
Well, Bolero has always been a fuel-efficient vehicle and this new variant is no exception too. So, when it comes to the newly launched variant, Mahindra has tuned in that such a way that the outcome has been around 16-18 kmpl of fuel economy depending on all the factors.
Thus, with a rugged ladder-frame chassis and a high ground clearance of 180 mm, this SUV in its variant is quite capable of taking the roughest routes easily and is also a popular choice for both rural as well as for the urban markets.
At the same time, it follows the latest BS6 emission norms so, henceforth becoming more powerful but greener. Mahindra has worked on the aspects of NVH, which stands for Noise, Vibration, and Harshness, to provide a quieter and refined ride.
Safety: Made Better for Modern Standards
The new 2019 Bolero sharply focuses on safety, and dual airbag safety feature is standard for all variants.
Braking gets enhanced with the fitment of ABS with EBD. Further, the variant also comes equipped with rear parking sensors, speed alarm, and seat belt reminders for the driver and co-passenger.
Mahindra has further buttressed the Bolero’s structure to enhance its crash safety. It is even safer for families today. But, safety aside, it is still a tough go-anywhere vehicle in looks.
Target Market: Appeal Crosses Rural and Urban Line
There are several reasons why the Bolero has had such sustained success spanning so many years. One such reason is that it had a huge appeal across the line that separates villages from cities.
Whether it’s the untarred roads of India’s villages or just about anywhere in the busy city roads, it fits as well.
Bolero has been ruggedly built and has an engine strong enough for agricultural use, to take on transport in the remote areas, or commercial use for business concerns.
However, this new design and new features make it perfect for families looking for a reliable and practical SUV for city life.
It is the new Bolero, priced sensibly, and the least expensive base model that starts around ₹9 lakh (ex-showroom).
This puts the Bolero well within the potential and gives it scope to reach its core client while offering the added trim and modern design features that would appeal to new prospects.
Conclusion: Mahindra Bolero Remains Relevant in a Competitive Market
Day after day, the Indian automobile market is getting fiercer and more aggressive, especially when you understand the several brands that have been churning out SUVs in a large number of segments.
Yet, somehow, Bolero has managed to retain a class of its own as it boasts of being the perfect amalgamation of ruggedness, reliability, and affordability.
This new facelift ensures that Bolero will not lose its face in today’s market as it well embodies the perfect mixture of modern designs and features coupled with legendary strength that has made this brand a household name.
Not just a cosmetic upgrade, the new Mahindra Bolero is a testament to thought reflected in people’s selling millions in the last couple of years.
Staying amongst the best SUVs of the country, better features in new looks, and an emphasis on performance and durability, the Bolero goes from being a reliable choice for numerous buyers in the country for personal use or family outings or work purposes.