Some images of a new camouflaged Mahindra test mule recently surfaced on the internet. Contrary to some media reports speculating it to be the next-gen Bolero, Autocar India can confirm that the spotted prototype is actually a major facelift for the Mahindra Bolero Neo that’s scheduled for a debut on August 15. This will be showcased alongside a new platform concept which has also been confirmed for a debut on August 15.
- Update for Bolero Neo to bring completely new body shell
- Will come fitted with six airbags as a safety update
- Will debut on August 15
Mahindra Bolero Neo facelift: what to expect?
First thing first, this is not an all-new generation, but a heavily facelifted version of the Bolero Neo. So, it will continue to be underpinned by a ladder frame chassis, but Mahindra has opted for a completely different top hat with this update. Almost none of the body panels have any resemblance with the existing Bolero Neo, and that’s not the usual approach with facelifts.
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When viewed from the rear quarter, the updated Bolero Neo has a Land Rover Defender-like profile. It gets completely new doors with flush handles and prominent bulges in the lower part, suggesting the presence of some body cladding; the front and rear wheel arches also appear a lot more flared and it can be seen riding on larger twin 5-spoke alloy wheels.
At the front, the test mule can be seen with the distinctive Mahindra grille, but the circular headlamps are likely to be temporary units. At the rear, it is likely to continue with a side-hinged door and a tail-gate mounted spare wheel, but overall, it seems to have moved up in positioning, and appears a lot less utilitarian.
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On that matter, sources say that Mahindra will also equip the Bolero Neo facelift with six airbags, among several other changes to the interior. The interiors were not seen in these images, but it could get an all-new dashboard and a larger touchscreen, among other features.
Mahindra Bolero Neo facelift: powertrain options
Mahindra currently offers the Bolero Neo with a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder diesel engine that produces 100hp and 260Nm of torque, and it solely comes mated to a manual gearbox. It is unclear if Mahindra will introduce any mechanical upgrades with this facelift.
What about the next-gen monocoque-based Bolero?
The next-gen Bolero underpinned by an all-new monocoque (NFA) platform is still some time away, expected only by late-2026. It will be capable of utilising petrol, diesel, hybrid and all-electric powertrains. At its upcoming event on Independence Day, Mahindra will show a concept version of this new platform. The updated Bolero Neo is also expected to debut in concept guise, with the launch expected some time next year, as was corroborated by Mahindra at its earnings call earlier this year.
Image Source: Motowagon, via Instagram
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