Mahindra Bolero Neo : The Mahindra Bolero Neo is a car that meet at the crossroads of legacy and modernity. While it retains the rough-n-tough personality of the Bolero, the Neo blends-in some urban touches, modern day features and a slightly softened demeanor—without being soft at all.
Based on the same ladder-frame platform as the Mahindra Scorpio, the Bolero Neo is aimed at buyers who require a practical SUV that can handle the real world, while still seeking a touch of refinement.
Though aimed primarily at the semi-urban and rural markets, the model has found takers in the cities for those who want a sturdy utility vehicle with genuine SUV qualities, not a soft-roader in crossover skin.
Mahindra Bolero Neo Familiar Yet Refreshed Design
As far as design is concerned, the Bolero Neo borrows its looks from the now phased-out TUV300, but there are obvious revisions suited to give it that distinct Bolero appeal. It gets a revised front grille, new headlamps with DRLs and a more Bolero-like front bumper.
The boxy form factor is still here, since it follows the utility over looks philosophy.
At the back, a side-hinged tailgate, X-shaped spare wheel cover and square-edged proportions lend the vehicle a rough and ready feel. It’s no stunner, but it looks the business as a rugged, go-anywhere SUV.
Powertrain and Chassis Characteristics
Under the bonnet, the Bolero Neo gets a 1.5-litre mHawk100 diesel motor, putting out 100 bhp and 260 Nm of peak torque. This engine is connected to a 5-speed manual transmission.
This is an engine that Mahindra aficionados are already acquainted with, and renowned for its strong delivery of torque, particularly low- to mid-range.
The USP of the Bolero Neo is its Multi-Terrain Technology with Mechanical Locking Differential (MLD), which is offered with the top N10 (O) model.
It’s a rare thing in this segment, and something that translates into a clear forefront when attacking loose surfaces, driving on rural roads, or climbing the hills behind them.
For a body-on-frame SUV, the ride is nothing to complain about. It feels planted at moderate speeds and it can deal with bad roads without drama.
But like most ladder-frame vehicles, there’s some body roll in corners, and the suspension tends toward the firm side.
Inside and In-cabin Practicality
Once you step inside, you’ll see that the interior design isn’t fancy, but functional. Basic layout of the dashboard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that has Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
You also receive steering mounted controls, electrically adjustable ORVMs and driver’s seat height adjuster on the higher trims.
The seating is simply functional, not fancy. The Bolero Neo comes with 7 seats, two jump seats behind for the third row. Though they are most optimal for children or short distance travel, the versatility of a 5+2 layout is something Indian families can get behind.
Material quality is fundamental but tough, and the cabin is hardwearing in spite of having a no-nonsense air to begin with — just the ticket for those 6uick to prioritise use over abuse.
Safety Features
On the safety front, the SUV comes with features such as dual airbags, ABS with EBD, reverse parking sensors, corner braking control, and ISOFIX child seat mounts as standard. Mahindra’s body structure tends to crash well, so for its segment and price point, the safety kit is decent.
Pros:
Ladder-type frame structure providing firm robustness.
In top configuration, MLD provides actual off-road capability
Diesel that has been proven with good torque.
7-seater with flexible utitlity
Reasonable cost for such an offer
Cons:
Jump seats in the third row are uncomfortable for adults.
No available automatic transmission
Its interior design seems dated compared with rivals
Ride can be bouncy on rough roads at highway speeds
Not great for those seeking modern infotainment or luxury
Mahindra Bolero Neo Final Thoughts
The Mahindra Bolero Neo isn’t pretending to be a soft, city-friendly crossover. It’s thoroughly unapologetic old-school, its mechanicals are rough-around-the-edges with a peppering of style and must-have features from 2019.
For customers looking for the dependability of a go-anywhere vehicle that can handle rough roads, haul the family and look the part as well, the Bolero Neo represents strong value.
It may not appeal to urban lifestyle buyers who need shiny tech, but for everyday practicality and long-term durability, it’s hard to beat in its segment.