Mahindra Bolero Neo+ Review: The Legend Expands
Introduction: Thaath Wahi, Avtaar Naya
With the trust of over 1.5 million customers, the Bolero nameplate is an institution in the Indian automotive landscape. The new Mahindra Bolero Neo+ builds on this incredible legacy, presenting a “new avatar” for the modern era. It takes the tough, go-anywhere spirit of the original and combines it with more space, more power, and more features. As a spacious 9-seater powered by a formidable 2.2L mHawk diesel engine, the Neo+ carves out a unique space in the market. It’s a no-nonsense, body-on-frame people-mover designed for those who need capacity and durability above all else, making it a compelling choice for large families and commercial operators.
Design: Stylish, Bold, and Immensely Practical
The Bolero Neo+ retains the signature tough and boxy silhouette that the brand is famous for. The front is adorned with the signature grille with chrome inserts (P10 variant), X-shaped bumpers, and the iconic Bolero side cladding. The P10 variant ups the style quotient with stylish alloy wheels and a deep silver spare wheel cover, while muscular side footsteps enhance its rugged appeal and practicality. At 4400mm long, it’s a substantial vehicle designed with purpose and presence in mind.
Inside, the focus is on space and functionality. The main highlight is the versatile 9-seater configuration (2+3+4), making it one of the most capacious vehicles in its price range. The cabin features a stylish center facia, which is finished in piano black on the P10 trim. The top model also gets premium fabric upholstery, armrests for the driver, co-driver, and second row, and a height-adjustable driver seat. The third-row side-facing seats are foldable, and with butterfly quarter glass, passengers in the back get a sense of airiness.
Exterior Design:
Signature Bolero styling with X-shaped bumpers, side cladding, and available alloy wheels.
Interior Design:
Spacious 9-seater cabin with premium fabric upholstery and a modern center console in the top variant.
Performance: The Power to Carry Everyone
At the heart of the Bolero Neo+ is the powerful and proven 2.2 litre mHawk diesel engine. It delivers a substantial 88.26 kW (~118 PS) of power and a hefty 280 Nm of torque, available from a low 1800 rpm. This torque-focused engine is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, ensuring that the Neo+ has the grunt to carry a full load of nine passengers and their luggage without breaking a sweat. The body-on-frame construction, combined with a Double Wish-Bone front and a Multi-Link rear suspension, is tuned for durability and handling heavy loads on varied road conditions.
Powertrain:
Powerful 2.2L mHawk diesel engine with 280 Nm of torque for effortless load-lugging.
Transmission:
A smooth-shifting 6-speed manual gearbox that helps manage the engine’s power effectively.
Full Specifications Table: Mahindra Bolero Neo+
Engine & Performance
- Engine: 2.2 litre mHawk Diesel
- Cubic Capacity: 2184 cm³
- Max Power: 88.26 kW @ 4000 r/min
- Max Torque: 280 Nm @ 1800-2800 r/min
- Gearbox: 6-Speed Manual
- Efficiency: Micro-Hybrid Start-Stop & Eco Mode
Dimensions, Capacity & Wheels
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 4400 x 1795 x 1812 mm
- Wheelbase: 2680 mm
- Seating Capacity: 9 Seats (2+3+4)
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 60 Litres
- Tyres: 215/70 R16 Tubeless Radials
- Wheels: Steel (P4) / Alloy (P10)
Safety
- Airbags: Dual Airbags (Driver + Co-driver)
- Braking: ABS + EBD
- Parking: Reverse Parking Assist
- Child Safety: ISOFIX with Top Tether (P10), Child Locks
- Security: Engine Immobilizer, Auto Door Lock
Technology & Comfort
- Infotainment: 22.8 cm Touchscreen with USB, Bluetooth, AUX (P10)
- Convenience: Steering Mounted Controls, Remote Key Entry (P10)
- Climate Control: Air Conditioning with Eco Mode
- Comfort: Height Adj. Driver Seat, Armrests, Power Windows
- Upholstery: Vinyl (P4) / Premium Fabric (P10)
Pros and Cons: Our Balanced View
Pros:
- Unbeatable Space: The only true 9-seater in its class, offering immense practicality for large families.
- Powerful Diesel Engine: The 2.2L mHawk engine provides strong torque for carrying heavy loads with ease.
- Rugged and Dependable: Built on a tough body-on-frame chassis, it’s designed to be a reliable workhorse.
- Excellent Value: Offers unmatched space and power for its price point, starting at just ₹11.39 Lakh.
Cons:
- Compromised 3rd Row Safety: Side-facing jump seats are less safe than forward-facing seats.
- Bouncy Ride Quality: The utilitarian suspension is built for durability, not for plush comfort like monocoque MPVs.
- Basic Feature List: Even the top P10 variant misses out on features common in modern family vehicles.
- Dated Ergonomics: The overall cabin design, while functional, feels utilitarian and a step behind rivals.
Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations
The Mahindra Bolero Neo+ is an outstanding choice for:
- Very Large Families: Those who need to move up to 9 people and find standard 7-seaters inadequate.
- Tour & Taxi Operators: Business owners looking for a cost-effective, durable, and high-capacity vehicle for commercial use.
- Buyers in Rural & Hilly Areas: Where a tough chassis, high ground clearance, and a powerful diesel engine are essential.
- Customers Prioritizing Function over Form: Who value sheer space and mechanical robustness over sophisticated features and car-like dynamics.
Final Verdict: The Undisputed King of Capacity
The Mahindra Bolero Neo+ is not a vehicle that tries to be everything to everyone. It is a purpose-built machine that excels at one thing: moving a large number of people over any terrain, reliably and affordably. By extending the proven Neo platform and equipping it with the powerful 2.2L mHawk engine, Mahindra has created the ultimate people-mover for the Indian heartland. It proudly carries the Bolero legacy of toughness while offering modern essentials like a touchscreen and improved comfort. While it has its compromises, particularly in ride comfort and third-row safety, its core proposition of a 9-seater SUV at an incredible price is simply unmatched. For those who need maximum space and strength, the Bolero Neo+ isn’t just an option; it’s the only one.
Overall Rating: 4.1 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)