New Delhi: Mahindra & Mahindra, one of India’s leading automotive manufacturers, has expanded its SUV lineup with the introduction of the Bolero Neo+ in the Indian market. The vehicle is positioned as a more spacious and robust variant of the popular Bolero Neo sub-compact SUV, offering a three-row, 9-seater configuration to cater to larger families and commercial operators.
Pricing and Variants
The Bolero Neo+ is launched with a starting price tag of ₹11.39 lakh for the entry-level P4 trim, while the top-spec P10 variant is priced at ₹12.49 lakh. These prices are ex-showroom, meaning they do not include additional costs such as road tax, insurance, and registration.
Design and Dimensions
At first glance, the Bolero Neo+ maintains the rugged aesthetic of its predecessor, the Bolero Neo. Notable exterior updates include a redesigned front bumper featuring a new fog lamp housing and a bull-bar-inspired design element, enhancing its off-road appeal. The vehicle also sports a fresh set of 16-inch alloy wheels, contributing to its commanding presence on the road.
The most significant change, however, lies in its dimensions. The Bolero Neo+ stretches to a length of 4,400mm, making it 405mm longer than the Bolero Neo, providing additional interior space without altering the wheelbase.
Exterior and Interior Updates
The rear section of the Bolero Neo+ has been revamped with new body panels, including a larger rear quarter glass and expansive wraparound tail lamps. The spare wheel cover retains the distinctive X-shape, synonymous with the Bolero brand. Interestingly, this body style has been previously utilized for ambulance services since mid-2023 and has now transitioned into the passenger vehicle segment.
Inside, the cabin mirrors that of the Bolero Neo, with minimal changes. The layout remains consistent with the original TUV300+ design, which has stood the test of time. The most prominent upgrade is the inclusion of a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, accompanied by a modernized steering wheel and an updated instrument cluster.
Seating and Features
The Bolero Neo+ distinguishes itself with a versatile 3-row seating arrangement (2-3-4 configuration), featuring two side-facing seats in the last row. Connectivity options such as Bluetooth, USB, and Aux are standard, along with conveniences like electrically adjustable wing mirrors, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, a 6-speaker sound system, power windows for both front and rear, manual air conditioning, and an armrest for the front seats. Notably, smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is absent.
Safety and Engine Specifications
Safety features in the Bolero Neo+ include dual airbags, an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and ISOFIX child seat mounts.
Under the hood, the Bolero Neo+ is powered by a robust 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine derived from the Scorpio range, delivering a performance output of 120hp and 280Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. In contrast, the standard Bolero Neo is equipped with a smaller 1.5-litre diesel engine producing 100hp.
Market Positioning
The Bolero Neo+ is primarily targeted at tour and travel operators, as well as contractors who provide vehicle leasing services to companies. With its launch, it is set to compete against the likes of the Force Citiline and the Gurkha 5-door, offering a compelling option in the multi-seater SUV category.
