KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- It was initially powered by a 2.5-litre Peugeot-sourced engine
- Automatic transmission has never been offered
- 4x4 used to be on offer in certain variants
- Multiple iterations of the Bolero have been made
The Mahindra Bolero might not be the first name to pop-up in the minds of most people, but make no mistake; it really is among the last few old-school cars surviving today. The Bolero has had a colourful journey, and it continues to rake in the numbers for Mahindra even today, even if it lacks modern features.
Let's take a look at how different the current Bolero is from some of the older ones. However, before all of that, the 91wheels WhatsApp Community is something you should join for the latest updates in the automotive space.
Mahindra Bolero Design and Brief History
The Bolero was first launched back in 2000, and it finds its roots in the Armada, and other older Mahindra CJs from back in the day. However, the Bolero was also Mahindra's initial step towards sophistication as well, with relatively modern interiors and features for cars back in the day.
There have been many different iterations of the Bolero in its lifetime so far; there's a been slightly longer Bolero XL with a raised roof, along with a Bolero Invader, Bolero Camper, Bolero Attitude, and the Bolero Stinger to name a few.
While the Bolero has stuck to its core values, it has received cosmetic updates over the years, along with new powertrain options to keep it compliant with emission norms.
Also read: Mahindra Thar Old VS New: From Niche SUV To Dream Car
Mahindra Bolero Old Vs New: Powertrains
The Bolero was initially powered by a Peugeot-sourced 2.5-litre diesel engine, producing which was eventually replaced by Mahindra's in-house developed 2.5-litre unit. While the Bolero has primarily been available as a rear-wheel drive car, there were times Mahindra also offered it with 4x4 as well. Mahindra also offered a DI powertrain with Bolero XL, which was targeted towards the commercial rural segment.
The current Bolero, however, is powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine, producing 74.9bhp and 210Nm of torque, paired to a 5-speed manual transmission. There is no automatic on offer.
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Mahindra Bolero Interior and Features
The Bolero has never been the most feature-loaded car in its segment, offering only the basics like a cassette/CD player and power windows. While it does lack a proper touch screen system, the Bolero currently offers bluetooth connectivity, a start-stop system, ABS, rear parking sensors, power windows and dual airbags at the front.
A point to be noted is that Mahindra has worked hard on the NVH levels of the Bolero; despite its age, the vibrations and engine noise are not very noticeable, with only a mild hint of the diesel clatter, and some negligible amount of vibration on the gear lever.
There was a time when the Bolero was also available with a front bench seat, and it has also been known for its air-conditioning system, which works a little too well.
Also read: Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara: Old Vs New
Verdict
The Mahindra Bolero is neither the most comfortable car, nor the most feature-loaded. Its driving dynamics are also far from perfect for highway usage. However, the sales figures still reflect how happy its targeted customers are with the car, who don't mind sacrificing electronic wizardry for its ruggedness and capabilities.
