Mahindra Bolero Neo: In a bold move that will further consolidate its reputation for no-nonsense tough and rugged SUVs, Mahindra has introduced the Bolero Neo Plus, setting yet another benchmark as India’s most affordable 9-seater SUV.
With aggressive pricing starting at just ₹11.39 lakh, this rugged people-carrier offers excellent elbow room along with an explosive engine that is every bit as “dhakad” as its name suggests.
Mahindra Bolero Neo Unmatched Value Proposition
A large, capable vehicle the name of which does not have to command a premium price — that’s the value proposition the automotive industry has been looking for, and Mahindra has served it up on a platter.
The Bolero Neo Plus is offered in two carefully engineered trims – the basic P4 model at a price of ₹11.39 lakh and the top-of-the-line P10 model at a price of ₹12.49 lakh (ex-showroom), which brings a nine-seater option within the reach of those who couldn’t afford it until now.
This is a good pricing strategy as the Neo Plus is targeted at the large family segment and is ideal for those long drives in semi-urban and rural areas where the need is for affordable mass transportation rather than luxury. Commercial users too will appreciate the economics and with the car’s known durability hopefully a sensible acquisition long term.
Muscular Exterior Presence
The Bolero Neo Plus means business just one look and you’ll know. Sitting at 1,795mm wide and 1,812mm high, the car is a formidable presence on the road, but not overpowering.
The front is adorned with Mahindra’s trademark X-shaped bumper while the unique grille comes with chrome treatments to give it head-turning family look, similar to other Bolero models.
The side profile showcases the vehicle’s length longer than the standard Bolero Neo but there are useful touches on this model such as side steps for easier ingress/egress – something that’s important, given this vehicle’s people-carrying role.
The Neo Plus is offered in three colour options – Napoli Black, Majestic Silver, and Diamond White – and just like its English-inspired design, there’s a purpose to Neo Plus’ form.
The Dhakad Engine: The Powerhouse of a Warrior
The real star of the Bolero Neo Plus is under its bonnet; a powerful 2.2L mHawk diesel engine, which churns out an impressive 120 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque.
This powermill by the way, is a big step up from the relatively weedy 1.5-litre one in the regular Bolero Neo, and packs enough punch to haul a heavily laden 9-seater with ease.
Mated to a 6-speed manual that sends power to the rear wheels, this engine provides ample performance in any situation. It provides enough low-rev torque for city traffic and the ability to cruise comfortably on the highway. The fuel saving micro-hybrid technology with auto start-stop function, makes the vehicle very frugal and delivers about 15-16 kmpl – decent numbers for a MPV of this size and capacity.
Space First, Interior Second, But Still Very Utilitarian
In the interiors, the Bolero Neo Plus asserts its utilitarian roots with a no-nonsense 2-3-4 seating layout, two at front, three in the middle row and four at the rear.
When maximum seating space is necessary and some luggage space is still required, this setup is perfect for family gatherings or commercial transport.
The cabin is all about durability, with tough fabrics and hard-wearing plastics that should stand up to years of abuse. The P10 version brings much-needed modern touches, such as a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with built-in Bluetooth, power windows on all four doors, and padded armrests for front and second-row occupants.
Considerate touches such as several storage cubbies, cup holders and a raiseable driver’s seat enhance its everyday usability, and the perched high driving position means you get a clear view of the road ahead — a real boon when pootling through the city or tackling tricky country roads.
Built for Indian Conditions
The Bolero Neo Plus falls in line with Mahindra’s Belt and Road strategy of producing vehicles designed for Indian roads. That’s because it’s built on a traditional body-on-frame chassis, with ground clearance that allows it to do things most other passenger cars can’t.
The safety aspects comprise of dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors and ISOFIX child seat mounts, offering standard protection without any unwanted complications. But the priority has not shifted from an Truck that just works for 15 years or more in some pretty harsh locations.
More Than Just Family Hauler
It’s still a family mover first, but the Bolero Neo Plus does quite a few things. It is built with durability and space in mind making this a great fit for taxis, tour operators, and other small businesses. Mahindra further even has made an ambulance version of it on the same platform, demonstrating its versatility in different roles.
Mahindra Bolero Neo: The Flagship Player for Quality and Value
The Bolero Neo Plus is Mahindra’s simple solution for a simple problem – inexpensive transportation for more number of people. And it doesn’t try to be luxury or avant-garde; it just works to offer outstanding value through sensible design, solid engineering and thoughtful features.
For families that need more seats than traditional SUVs can offer or commercial operators looking for a sturdy people carrier, the Bolero Neo Plus is the ultimate combination of capacity, capability and value. It powerful “dhakad” engine never lets it feels underpowered and its tough body offers long lasting durability.
In a market where form-focused crossovers dominate, that’s something to be proud of; and, on top of that, the Bolero Neo Plus does so in a price bracket that opens it up to a wide audience.
A great addition to the Mahindra portfolio – and about time for all those practical buyers out across India!