The Mahindra Bolero has always been a name synonymous with durability, practicality and long-term dependability. For 2025, Mahindra has updated its most iconic workhorse once again, refining what already works while adding just enough new-age touches to keep it relevant.
History and lineage
Launched at the turn of the millennium, the Mahindra Bolero quickly became the backbone of India’s utility SUV landscape. Its reputation wasn’t built on flashy design or cutting-edge technology, but on pure, old-school resilience. Farmers relied on it, government departments purchased fleets of it, and countless rural households adopted it as their go-to multi-purpose vehicle. Over the years, Mahindra made incremental updates, but the core traits—solid construction, body-on-frame architecture, rear-wheel drive and simple mechanicals—remained untouched. The 2025 facelift continues this evolutionary philosophy. Instead of reinventing the Bolero, Mahindra has focused on enhancing practicality while preserving the rugged DNA. The introduction of a new top-end B8 variant signals a shift towards better comfort and features, without diluting the utilitarian identity that customers cherish.
Exterior
The 2025 Bolero retains its unmistakable silhouette. The boxy stance, upright front, and traditional SUV proportions remain intact—because, frankly, they work. Mahindra has chosen subtle refinement over dramatic reinvention. The front fascia gets a smarter grille with vertical chrome slats, accompanied by re-profiled bumpers that now integrate fog lamps on higher variants. These small additions lend a modernised face while staying true to the Bolero’s no-nonsense personality. The B8 trim upgrades the visual appeal with 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, a notable improvement over steel rims that dominated most Bolero generations. Adding to the updated look is a new Stealth Black colour option, which gives the SUV a more premium, confident stance. The squared-off wheel arches with cladding, high ground clearance and an overall robust form continue to announce the Bolero as a vehicle built for rough terrain and tough duties. These changes don’t dramatically alter the Bolero’s identity—but they do smartly enhance its appeal without interfering with the formula that made it a household name.
Interiors
The cabin feels more welcoming now but continues to prioritise functionality over indulgence. The new leatherette upholstery in the B8 variant is a noticeable step up, adding comfort without compromising durability—an important factor for buyers who use the Bolero daily for heavy-duty tasks. The dashboard features a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering basic Bluetooth connectivity. What it doesn’t offer is Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, a clear indicator that the Bolero still caters more to practicality than tech-heavy luxury. You do get steering-mounted controls, USB Type-C charging ports, redesigned bottle holders and a layout built for longevity. Seat cushioning and contouring have been improved for support over long journeys. The tall windows provide excellent visibility—a huge advantage on rural roads—and the airy cabin contributes to fatigue-free travel. While the plastics remain basic and the overall design is simple, Mahindra has ensured that every element serves a purpose.
Engine and specifications
Powering the 2025 Bolero is the tried-and-tested 1.5-litre mHawk75 diesel engine, producing around 75 bhp and 210 Nm of torque. This three-cylinder motor may not be the most refined in the segment, but it is one of the most reliable and cost-efficient to maintain. The rear-wheel-drive layout stays, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox that is easy to operate and engineered for long-term durability. A key addition for 2025 is Mahindra’s RideFlo suspension system, which uses reworked dampers to improve ride comfort, particularly on broken surfaces. The ladder-frame construction ensures that the Bolero continues to feel planted and rugged, especially when carrying passengers or cargo. Dimensions remain familiar—just under four metres in length, a 2,680 mm wheelbase and a massive 60-litre fuel tank. Braking is handled through front discs and rear drum brakes.
Drive and handling
Driving the Bolero is an experience centered around confidence rather than excitement. The mHawk75 engine delivers its best at the lower end of the rev range, making it ideal for urban stop-and-go traffic, hilly terrain and load-bearing scenarios. It is not fast, but it is consistent and predictable. The upgraded RideFlo suspension does a better job ironing out potholes and uneven roads, although the rear leaf springs maintain their firm character unless the vehicle is loaded. Steering is direct but on the heavier side, and high-speed dynamics remain secondary to durability. Where the Bolero truly shines is on tough terrain—rocky patches, rural roads, dirt tracks and steep inclines. The RWD setup offers a planted feel, and the SUV inspires assurance where monocoque crossovers would hesitate. It's a dependable workhorse first, and a lifestyle vehicle second.
Should you buy it?
Buy the 2025 Bolero if your priorities include toughness, low running costs, long-term durability and excellent reliability in harsh environments. It is ideal for rural families, small businesses, fleet operators, government use and anyone who wants a vehicle that can take constant abuse without complaint.
