Next-generation Mahindra Bolero spied testing in Chennai again

The next-generation Mahindra Bolero has been spotted testing in Chennai once again. Internally called U301, the car was enveloped in heavily camouflage and was spotted near the manufacturer's R&D centre.. The rough edges on the test mule indicate that the Bolero is still in the  early stage of development, but with the launch expected to be sometime in 2016, Mahindra has enough time to have everything sorted.

By the looks of it, the new Bolero will get a comprehensive makeover and will ditch its utilitarian look for a softened design. The front grille of the test mule seemed to be influenced by the XUV500, while the headlamps were smoked. The SUV looks a lot more compact and has lesser overhang on both the ends. The tail-lamps seem to be a stopgap arrangement and are similar to the ones used in the Scorpio, but the production model might adopt a different design. 

It has been speculated that the next-generation Bolero will be offered in two different body styles - a regular full sized SUV and a compact sub-four metre one. The Quanto is currently Mahindra’s contender in the highly competitive compact SUV, and despite being the pioneer of the segment, it has failed to make a mark in the market. 

The current Bolero is powered by a 63bhp 2.5-litre diesel engine, which is expected to be replaced by a tuned version of the m-Hawk unit. While this turbocharged diesel engine produces 120bhp and 290Nm of torque in the Scorpio, we expect it to be detuned with emphasis on efficiency. It might also be offered with the three-pot 1.5-litre diesel unit from the Quanto. 

The old-school styling and rugged image of the Bolero has helped it become one of the best-selling SUVs in the country. It is offered in more than 15 variants priced between Rs 5.97 lakh to Rs 7.75 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). It goes up against other SUVs/MUVs like the Chevrolet Tavera (BSIII only), Tata Sumo, Chevrolet Enjoy and the Tata Movus.