Mahindra Bolero Neo+ Expert Review

Unapologetically utilitarian, the Bolero Neo Plus wears function over form. The front half and 2680mm wheelbase are shared with the Bolero Neo, retaining the familiar Bolero face and black shoulder cladding. Beyond the rear wheels, the body is stretched to accommodate side-facing third-row seats. Squared-off wheel arches, chunky 16-inch tyres, side steps, generous ground clearance and a tailgate-mounted spare complete its traditional SUV stance. No frills, just purpose.

The cabin mirrors the exterior’s no-nonsense theme. Hard plastics and basic switchgear dominate, but everything feels durable. Beige-and-black upholstery with silver accents adds mild visual relief. The driving position is commanding, though the front seats lack support. Middle-row space is good for three adults, with adequate headroom and legroom, but an upright backrest and no rear AC vents hurt comfort.
Access to the side-facing third row is via the tailgate. Space is tight and there are no seatbelts, making it best for short trips or smaller occupants. Fold these seats, and boot space expands to 696 litres.

The P10 variant gets essentials like 16-inch alloys, fog lamps, keyless entry, a 9-inch touchscreen, electric mirrors, rear armrest and rear wiper. Basics such as power windows, steering and AC are standard. Safety includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD, parking sensors and central locking.

Power comes from the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel, detuned to 120hp and 280Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual and rear-wheel drive. Torque delivery is the highlight, with strong pull from low revs, easy drivability and minimal need for downshifts. 0-100kph takes 13.74 seconds, and rolling acceleration is impressively quick. Refinement, however, is poor. Diesel clatter is ever-present, and the gearbox, while precise, lacks slickness.

MID readings of 16.5kpl are impressive for a ladder-frame SUV. Sixth gear cruising and engine start-stop help keep consumption in check.

Built to take abuse, the suspension shrugs off broken roads with ease. However, the ride feels unsettled at speed, body roll is evident, and steering lacks confidence on highways.

In a segment full of more modern rivals, the Bolero Neo Plus stands out for toughness, space and sheer durability. It isn’t refined or feature-rich, but it’s reliable, capable and extremely drivable.
In short, the Bolero Neo Plus is an honest, no-nonsense people-mover built to handle India’s roughest roads, and it does exactly that.