The Mahindra Bolero 2025, expected to launch in India around October 2025 (possibly unveiled on August 15, 2025), is a new-generation C1-segment SUV, succeeding the iconic Bolero that has been a staple since 2000. Priced between ₹10.00-12.50 lakh (ex-showroom), it competes with the Mahindra Bolero Neo, Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, and Skoda Kylaq. Built on Mahindra’s New Flexible Architecture (NFA) platform, it blends the Bolero’s rugged legacy with modern design and features, targeting rural, semi-urban, and urban buyers, including families and fleet operators. This review details its expected price, specifications, features, and performance in India as of August 31, 2025.
Bold and Modern Design
The Mahindra Bolero 2025 features a redesigned, muscular exterior with a vertical-slat grille, circular LED projector headlamps, LED DRLs, and a new Mahindra twin-peaks logo. It retains the Bolero’s boxy silhouette with a flat roofline, squared-off wheel arches, flush-fitting door handles, and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel. Dimensions are approximately 3995 mm long, 1745-1795 mm wide, 1880 mm tall, with a 2680 mm wheelbase and 180-183 mm ground clearance. Available in White, Brown, and Silver (variant-specific), it includes multi-spoke alloy wheels and a rugged bumper. The ladder-frame chassis ensures durability, but the polycarbonate back may attract scratches compared to premium rivals like the Hyundai Venue.
Upgraded Interior
The 7-seater cabin (2+3+2 layout) offers a modernized dashboard inspired by the Scorpio N, with a 7-9-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and connected car tech. Features include a semi-digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, steering-mounted controls, keyless entry, USB charging ports, and a panoramic sunroof (a first for Bolero). Upholstery is premium fabric or leatherette, with improved NVH insulation for a quieter ride. While spacious, rear-seat comfort remains basic for long drives, and fit-and-finish may not match urban-focused SUVs like the Tata Nexon.
Enhanced Performance
The Bolero 2025 is expected to offer a 1.5L mHawk75 diesel engine (1493cc, 3-cylinder, BS6 Phase 2-compliant) producing 75-80 bhp at ~3600 rpm and 210 Nm at 1600-2200 rpm, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. Some reports suggest a 2.0L diesel (1999cc, 4-cylinder, ~80 bhp, 210 Nm) or an automatic transmission option (6-speed AMT), though these are unconfirmed. A micro-hybrid start/stop system enhances efficiency, with a claimed mileage of 16-18 kmpl (real-world: ~14-16 kmpl). The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) setup, coil-spring front suspension, and leaf spring rear suspension ensure durability on rough terrains, but the ride may feel bouncy when unloaded. A 4×4 option is unlikely for the base model but possible in higher trims.
Safety and Off-Road Capability
Expected to achieve a strong Bharat NCAP rating (based on Mahindra’s recent 5-star scores), it includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, rear camera, seat belt reminders, overspeed warning, and a reinforced chassis. An ADAS suite (adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, auto emergency braking) is speculated for top variants, a first for Bolero. Off-road features include a robust ladder-frame chassis, high ground clearance, and 60-litre fuel tank, ideal for rural roads, though it lacks the advanced 4×4 systems of the Mahindra Thar. The absence of standard 4×4 and limited safety tech in base variants are drawbacks.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at ₹10.00-12.50 lakh (ex-showroom), on-road prices in Delhi range from ₹11.50-14.50 lakh, including RTO (~₹80,000-1,00,000) and insurance (~₹50,000-70,000). Available in 3-4 variants (e.g., B4, B6, B6 Optional), it will be sold through Mahindra dealerships, Amazon, and Flipkart, with a 1-1.5 month waiting period as of August 2025. Bookings require a ₹21,000-31,000 token, with offers including ₹50,000-1,30,000 discounts (select dealers), ₹20,000 exchange bonuses, and EMI options (~₹22,000/month at 9.8% interest, ₹1.20 lakh down payment). Maintenance costs are ~₹5,000-7,000/year, supported by Mahindra’s 2,200+ service centers. The warranty is 3 years or 1,00,000 km, extendable to 5 years.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Anticipated feedback praises the rugged build, modern features (sunroof, touchscreen), fuel efficiency, and low maintenance. The panoramic sunroof and ADAS appeal to urban buyers, while the ladder-frame chassis suits rural use. Drawbacks include:
- Bouncy ride on uneven roads.
- Basic rear-seat comfort for long drives.
- Limited tech in base variants (e.g., no touchscreen).
- Unconfirmed engine options, causing buyer uncertainty.
- No confirmed 4×4, limiting off-road appeal vs. Thar.
Comparison with Competitors
The Bolero 2025 competes with:
- Mahindra Bolero Neo (₹9.97-12.18 lakh, 1.5L diesel, 100 bhp): More refined cabin, but less modern.
- Maruti Suzuki Ertiga (₹8.69-13.03 lakh, 1.5L petrol/CNG): Family-focused, but less rugged.
- Skoda Kylaq (₹8-12 lakh, 1.0L petrol): Urban appeal, but no diesel or off-road prowess.
It excels in durability and diesel efficiency but lags in refinement and advanced tech compared to urban SUVs.
Speculative Notes
Launch dates vary (August 15 vs. October 2025), and engine specs are unclear (1.5L vs. 2.0L, manual vs. AMT). Some reports claim exaggerated mileage (e.g., 48 kmpl), which is unlikely for a diesel SUV; 16-18 kmpl is more realistic. Buyers should verify specs with Mahindra dealers closer to launch.
Final Thoughts
The Mahindra Bolero 2025, expected in October 2025, offers a 1.5L diesel engine, 7-seater cabin, panoramic sunroof, and modernized design at ₹10.00-12.50 lakh. Built on the NFA platform, it balances ruggedness with urban appeal, ideal for families and rural users, though ride quality and base variant features may disappoint. Backed by Mahindra’s extensive service network, it’s a strong contender in India’s sub-₹15 lakh SUV segment, pending official confirmation.
