Introduction: The Bolero Legacy Reinvented
For over twenty years, the Mahindra Bolero has been recognized as the unquestionable ruler of robust Indian SUVs. Born as a no-nonsense workhorse, it became a symbol of reliability for farmers, small-business owners, and even the armed forces. Mahindra Bolero facelift 2025 ladder-frame chassis, torquey diesel engine, and go-anywhere capability made it a staple on both rural trails and urban roads.
But times have changed. Today’s SUV buyers want premium interiors, advanced tech, and modern styling—without compromising on toughness. Considering this transformation, Mahindra is ultimately presenting the Bolero with its most crucial redesign to date. The 2025 Mahindra Bolero facelift isn’t just a cosmetic update—it’s a complete transformation, blending the Bolero’s legendary ruggedness with contemporary comforts.
In this detailed review, we’ll explore:
- Exterior changes that make it look more premium
- A completely redesigned interior with soft-touch materials and a touchscreen
- New tech features like Android Auto, a rear camera, and voice commands
- Refined diesel engine with better drivability
- Safety upgrades, including dual airbags and ABS as standard
- Variant breakdown—which one offers the best value?
- How it compares to rivals like the Tata Nexon and Maruti Brezza
Let’s dive in.
Exterior Design Overhaul: Rugged Meets Refined
The new Bolero retains its boxy, muscular silhouette, but every panel has been reworked for a more premium look.
Front Fascia: Bold & Modern
- New chrome-accented grille (still vertical-slat but sleeker)
- LED DRLs integrated into redesigned headlamps
- Revised bumper with fog lamps in chrome housings
- More aggressive stance with a slightly raised hood
Side Profile: Subtle But Effective Upgrades
- Body-colored door handles (previously black plastic)
- New alloy wheel designs (steel wheels remain on base variant)
- ORVMs with integrated turn indicators
Rear Design: Cleaner & More Contemporary
- LED taillights with a new lighting signature
- Redesigned tailgate for better proportions
- Chrome garnish on the rear bumper
Verdict: The Bolero no longer looks utilitarian—it now competes with modern compact SUVs in style while keeping its rugged DNA intact.
Interior Enhancements: From Basic to Premium
The biggest leap forward is inside. The old Bolero’s plasticky, function-over-form cabin is gone—replaced by a soft-touch dashboard, a 7-inch touchscreen, and improved ergonomics.
Dashboard & Infotainment
- All-new dashboard with padded surfaces
- 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Semi-digital instrument cluster (analog dials with a small MID)
- Steering-mounted controls (first time in a Bolero)
Seating & Comfort
- Better bolstering for front seats
- Improved rear legroom & thigh support
- Leatherette upholstery in top variants
- Automatic climate control (P6 variant)
Convenience Features
- Push-button start (top variant)
- Rear AC vents (still missing—a downside)
- Multiple USB ports & 12V sockets
Verdict: The Bolero’s cabin finally feels contemporary, though some rivals still offer more rear-seat luxury.
Technology & Features: Catching Up with the Times
The Bolero was never a tech leader—until now. Key upgrades include:
✅ 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone connectivity
✅ Rear parking camera (with dynamic guidelines)
✅ Bluetooth, USB, and voice commands
✅ Push-button start & keyless entry (P6 only)
✅ Advanced driver info system (fuel efficiency, range, etc.)
Missing?
❌ Wireless charging
❌ Ventilated seats
❌ Sunroof (unlike rivals)
Verdict: A huge improvement, but still behind segment leaders in some areas.
Powertrain & Driving Dynamics: Same Muscle, More Refined
The Bolero remains committed to its dependable 1.5L mHawk diesel, incorporating important improvements:
- 75 BHP & 210 Nm torque (slightly tweaked for better low-end response)
- 5-speed manual gearbox (smoother shifts)
- Reduced NVH levels (quieter cabin)
- Retuned suspension (better ride-handling balance)
Real-World Driving Impressions (Expected):
- Robust low-end torque (beneficial for off-road pursuits and urban commuting)
- Still not a highway cruiser (engine gets noisy at high RPMs)
- Improved ride comfort (less bouncy than before)
Verdict: The Bolero remains a workhorse first, but daily driving is now more comfortable.
Safety Upgrades: Finally Meeting Modern Standards
| Safety Feature | Old Bolero | New Bolero |
| Airbags | Driver only | Dual front (standard) |
| ABS | Optional | Standard |
| Rear Parking Sensors | Optional | Standard |
| Rear Camera | No | Yes (mid & top variants) |
| ISOFIX Child Seats | No | Yes |
| Hill Hold Assist | No | Yes (top variant) |
Verdict: A major safety leap, now on par with rivals.
Variant Breakdown: Which One to Buy?
1. Bolero P2 (Base Variant – ₹9.5 Lakh)
- Steel wheels
- Manual AC
- 2-DIN audio system
- Basic safety (dual airbags, ABS)
Best for: Fleet buyers or budget-conscious users.
2. Bolero P4 (Mid Variant – ₹11 Lakh)
- 7-inch touchscreen
- Alloy wheels
- Rear camera & sensors
- Keyless entry
Best for: Most buyers—great value.
3. Bolero P6 (Top Variant – ₹12.5 Lakh)
- LED headlamps
- Push-button start
- Leatherette seats
- ESP & Hill Hold
Best for: Urban buyers wanting premium features.
Market Positioning: Who Should Buy It?
Strengths:
✔ Unmatched ruggedness (still a proper ladder-frame SUV)
✔ Improved premium feel (now suitable for urban buyers)
✔ Strong resale value (Bolero holds value better than most)
Weaknesses:
❌ No automatic transmission option
❌ Rear seat comfort still lags behind rivals
❌ No sunroof or ventilated seats
Competitors Comparison
| Feature | Bolero Facelift | Tata Nexon | Maruti Brezza |
| Engine | 1.5L Diesel | 1.5L Diesel | 1.5L Petrol |
| Safety | 2 Airbags, ABS | 6 Airbags, ESP | 4 Airbags, ESP |
| Infotainment | 7-inch Touchscreen | 10.25-inch | 9-inch |
| Price (ex-showroom) | ₹9.5-12.5L | ₹8-15L | ₹8-14L |
Verdict: The Bolero is best for those who prioritize ruggedness—but if you want a city-focused SUV, rivals offer more features.
Expected Launch & Pricing
- Launch Date: Q3 2025
- Expected Price: ₹9.5 lakh (P2) to ₹12.5 lakh (P6) ex-showroom
Final Verdict: Should You Wait for the New Bolero?
✅ Buy if:
- You need a tough, reliable SUV for rough roads
- You want better interiors & tech than the old Bolero
- You prefer high ground clearance & diesel torque
❌ Skip if:
- You want a smooth highway cruiser
- You need advanced ADAS or a sunroof
- You prefer petrol or automatic options
The Bottom Line:
The 2025 Mahindra Bolero facelift is the most modern Bolero ever, finally bridging the gap between rugged utility and urban appeal. It won’t beat the Nexon or Brezza in features, but for buyers who value toughness and reliability, this is still the king.