The Current Mahindra Bolero
Last year there was quite a bit of chatter about India launching BS6-compliant vehicles and they have done so. The Mahindra Bolero has undergone significant changes with the BS6 transition while receiving a facelift and some safety upgrades.
The revised Mahindra Bolero models are already on sale at dealerships across India and they seem to have made it just in time to meet the stricter emission requirements. Unfortunately, there is no confirmation yet whether we will see these models on South African roads but Group1Mahindra will keep you posted.
The cleaner Mahindra Bolero BS6 comes in three variants; B4, B6 and B6 (O). They are available in Mist Silver, Lakeside Brown, Diamond White with standard safety and convenience features across the range which include the following:
- Driver airbag
- ABS with EBD
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Seatbelt
- Power steering
- Engine start/stop
- Analogue instrument cluster
- Air Conditioning with heater and demister
- Remote opening of fuel cover
By upgrading to BS6, the Mahindra Bolero now has a more powerful 1.5-litre mHawk75 three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine with more torque (75 bhp and 210 Nm). While it’s good news in terms of safety, emissions and performance, the upgrade has resulted in higher prices which may not appease the budget car buyers.
What’s New On The Mahindra Bolero?
The new Mahindra Bolero is made in only the Power+ length-restricted version which is India’s first model with metal bumpers. This will be mandatory once the new pedestrian safety norms become effective in October. The bonnet has also been insulated which should result in a more refined driving experience.
The facelifted Mahindra Bolero has a new front bumper design, revised headlamps with static bending light, new radiator grille, graphics and clear-lens rear lights. The interior remains largely the same except for the new four-spoke steering wheel from the Mahindra TUV300.
Mahindra Bolero B4
This is the base model with vinyl seats, black outside rear-view mirrors, wheel caps and a spare wheel cover. In addition to the standard features mentioned earlier, the B4 has an engine start/stop system and analogue instrument cluster. While the BS6-compliant Mahindra Bolero is certainly the most affordable 7-seater with a diesel engine, it could do with more safety features, especially a front passenger airbag.
Mahindra Bolero B6
The Mahindra Bolero B6 has all the features and trimmings of the B4 but has a chrome front grille, body decals and coloured rear-view mirror. On the inside, it features a wooden finish on the centre console, a 2-DIN audio system with Bluetooth, USB and AUX connection, fabric upholstery and front map pockets. It also has central locking electric windows, keyless entry and a 12V charging socket.
Mahindra Bolero B6 (O)
In terms of features, the Mahindra Bolero B6 (0) is top of the range with all the basics from the B4 and B6 plus a few extras. This includes fog lamps, static bending headlamps along with a rear washer and wiper. Even the premium B6 (O) only has a driver airbag which should have been given a passenger airbag considering the higher price compared to the older models.
If these cars were to find their way to South Africa, it could present the carmaker with a great opportunity to capitalise on the local SUV segment, considering how well the Mahindra Bolero Maxi-Truck and other derivatives have performed.
While the Mahindra Bolero may not have all the driver comfort and convenience features of the bigger brands, if the price is right and they reconsider adding a passenger airbag, it could be a worthy adversary.
To stay updated on global motoring news and other interesting developments simply read our blog and follow us on Facebook. You can visit the online showroom to view our large selection of new and quality pre-owned Mahindra vehicles and book a test drive when you are ready.
