The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus is the latest addition to Mahindra’s lineup, offering an extended version of the popular Bolero Neo. Designed for those who need a tough, spacious, and rugged vehicle that can handle both city drives and off-road adventures, the Bolero Neo Plus comes with improved features, more space, and the same dependable performance that Mahindra is known for. In this review, we will explore the vehicle’s design, performance, comfort, and practicality, making it a perfect choice for both family and adventure enthusiasts.
Bold and Muscular Design
The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus carries forward the bold and muscular design language of the original Bolero, with a few enhancements to give it a more commanding presence. The front fascia of the vehicle features a broad grille with vertical slats and chrome detailing, complemented by sleek halogen headlamps and fog lights. The raised stance of the vehicle adds to its rugged appeal, while the pronounced wheel arches and sturdy side steps give it a more robust, off-road-ready look.
At the side, the extended length of the Bolero Neo Plus is noticeable. The additional length increases the vehicle’s practicality, offering more cabin space for passengers. The 15-inch alloy wheels provide a sturdy stance, ensuring that the Neo Plus is capable of taking on rough roads with ease. The rear design retains the tough SUV character with vertically stacked tail lamps and a large tailgate, which further reinforces its ruggedness.
Spacious and Practical Interior
Step inside the Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus, and you’re greeted by a spacious and functional cabin. While the interior may not have the premium finish of more expensive SUVs, the emphasis here is on practicality and durability. The seats are comfortable and upholstered in durable fabric, designed to withstand rough usage while providing decent comfort for long journeys.
The Neo Plus features a 7-seat configuration, with ample space in the second and third rows. Whether you’re using the car for city commutes or long-distance trips, the extended dimensions of the Bolero Neo Plus ensure that there’s enough room for passengers. The third row is ideal for children or occasional adult passengers, though it’s best suited for shorter trips.
The cabin is also equipped with a basic infotainment system that includes Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and a 2-DIN audio player. While the system isn’t as feature-rich as more expensive vehicles, it provides the essentials for in-car entertainment. There’s also a significant amount of storage space available, with compartments on the dashboard, under the seats, and in the doors, making it a practical vehicle for carrying luggage, groceries, or equipment on the go.
Rugged Performance for Diverse Conditions
Under the hood, the Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus is powered by a 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine that produces 120 bhp and 280 Nm of torque. This engine provides plenty of grunt, making the Neo Plus an ideal vehicle for tackling both city roads and more challenging terrains. Whether you are cruising on highways or driving on rough village roads, the engine offers the power and torque necessary for smooth driving.
The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, and the vehicle’s rear-wheel-drive layout ensures a more traditional SUV driving experience. The Bolero Neo Plus is engineered to offer excellent off-road capability, and with its robust suspension system, it handles uneven roads and gravel paths effortlessly. The higher ground clearance ensures that you won’t scrape the underbody when driving over bumps or obstacles, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy exploring off-road terrains.
On the highway, the vehicle delivers a stable and composed ride, and while the steering is relatively light, it provides good feedback. The suspension setup is tuned for rugged conditions, so the Bolero Neo Plus absorbs bumps and potholes without disturbing the cabin too much. While it may not be as refined as some other city-focused SUVs, the Neo Plus excels in delivering the durability and performance that off-roaders and rural drivers look for.
Comfort and Features for Long Drives
Though the Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus is focused on delivering rugged performance, it doesn’t skimp on comfort, particularly for longer drives. The cabin is roomy, with adequate headroom and legroom for front and middle-row passengers. The seats, although not plush, are supportive, making them suitable for longer trips.
The ride quality is comfortable enough, thanks to the vehicle’s suspension system, which is designed to handle both paved roads and rough trails. The elevated ride height offers a commanding view of the road, enhancing the overall driving experience. However, the road noise can be slightly higher than what you’d experience in more premium SUVs, but this is a small trade-off given the Bolero Neo Plus’s focus on ruggedness and practicality.
In terms of features, the Neo Plus is equipped with the basics, including air conditioning, power windows, and central locking. While the feature list isn’t extensive, it caters to the practical needs of everyday driving, making the Bolero Neo Plus an easy-to-use, no-frills vehicle.
Safety Features
Mahindra has equipped the Bolero Neo Plus with several safety features to ensure that passengers are protected in the event of a collision or other road hazards. The vehicle comes with dual front airbags, ABS with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution), and rear parking sensors. While the safety features are fairly standard, they offer peace of mind for city and highway driving. The vehicle’s solid build quality further enhances its safety credentials, particularly when navigating rough terrain or city traffic.
Verdict: A Reliable and Rugged Companion
The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus stands out as a capable and reliable SUV that caters to buyers looking for a no-nonsense, rugged vehicle for both city and off-road driving. Its tough design, powerful engine, and practical interior make it a solid choice for families, adventurers, and anyone who needs a reliable vehicle that can handle a variety of terrains. The additional space in the Neo Plus makes it ideal for larger families or those who need extra cargo space, without sacrificing the vehicle’s off-road performance.
For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, long road trips, or require a vehicle that can endure the challenges of rural or rugged terrains, the Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus offers a perfect balance of durability, comfort, and practicality. It may not have the luxury features of more expensive SUVs, but it’s certainly built to last, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a rugged, versatile companion on and off the road.
