Mahindra Bolero Bold Edition: The evergreen Mahindra Bolero just got a cosmetic refresh with the new Bold Edition, but here’s the real kicker – it’s essentially a warm-up act before the brand unleashes a completely new-generation model in 2026.
The Bold Edition Package: Cosmetic Tweaks for a Timeless Workhorse
Mahindra quietly rolled out the Bolero Bold Edition last month, and frankly, it’s exactly what it sounds like – the same old workhorse with some dealer-level accessories thrown in. Priced between ₹10.02 lakh and ₹11.14 lakh (ex-showroom), the Bold Edition adds dark chrome elements to the grille, headlight surrounds, and door handles, plus blacked-out fog lamp surrounds. Inside, you get new black and beige seat upholstery and some additional floor mats – nothing groundbreaking, but it does freshen up the cabin a bit.
The Bold Edition package costs an additional ₹20,500 over the standard variants, which honestly feels reasonable for what you’re getting. It’s available across all three variants – B4, B6, and B6 OPT – so buyers aren’t forced into the top trim just to get the cosmetic updates.
2026 Bolero: Platform Revolution and Powertrain Overhaul
But here’s where things get interesting. While Mahindra is keeping the current Bolero relevant with these minor updates, the company is simultaneously working on something much bigger. Multiple industry sources confirm that an all-new Bolero is in the pipeline for 2026, built on Mahindra’s upcoming New Flexible Architecture (NFA) platform.
This new platform will be unveiled on August 15, 2025 – Independence Day – at Mahindra’s Chakan facility. The NFA is described as a monocoque platform (goodbye, ladder frame!) that can accommodate petrol, diesel, hybrid, and even electric powertrains. Yes, you read that right – there’s a Bolero EV coming too.
The next-generation model promises to be a significant departure from the current formula. Built on the NFA platform, it will likely feature both short and long wheelbase variants – the latter being positioned as a 9-seater to take on the Force Citiline. Engine options could include a 1.5L turbo diesel, 2.2L turbo diesel, and even a 2.0L turbo petrol.
mHawk Diesel Legacy: Decoding the Current-Gen Engine Specs
The current Bolero continues to soldier on with its tried-and-tested 1.5-litre mHawk75 diesel engine producing 74.96 bhp and 210 Nm of torque. Fuel efficiency stands at a respectable 16 kmpl according to ARAI figures, which isn’t bad considering this is essentially a 25-year-old design that’s been refined over the years.
What’s remarkable is how the Bolero has maintained its relevance. Mahindra is selling around 8,000-9,000 units per month, primarily in rural and semi-urban markets where the Bolero’s reputation for durability still carries significant weight.
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Market Stronghold: Rural Demand and Regional Dominance
It’s particularly strong in the Central and Northern belts of India, where road conditions often favor function over form. Farmers, small business owners, and fleet operators still swear by the Bolero’s ability to handle rough terrain while keeping maintenance costs low – a reputation that’s harder to quantify but impossible to ignore.
The timing makes sense when you consider Mahindra’s broader strategy. While the XUV700, Thar, and Scorpio-N have successfully captured urban buyers, the Bolero remains the cash cow that keeps profits healthy, especially in markets where flashy features matter less than basic reliability and low running costs.
Future Plans: Production Expansion and Greenfield Facilities
Mahindra plans to manufacture 1.2 lakh NFA-based vehicles annually at its Chakan plant, with plans for a new greenfield facility by FY2028. This suggests the company sees significant volume potential in the platform, which will also spawn other SUVs and pickup trucks.
For now, the Bold Edition serves as a bridge product, keeping the Bolero relevant while Mahindra finalizes its next-generation plans. It’s a smart move – why fix what isn’t broken, especially when you’re planning to replace it entirely in a couple of years?
The real test will be whether the new-generation Bolero can maintain the current model’s simplicity and ruggedness while incorporating modern features that today’s buyers expect. Given Mahindra’s recent track record with the Thar and XUV lineup, there’s reason to be optimistic.
Until then, the Bold Edition gives current Bolero buyers a slightly more stylish option without messing with the formula that’s worked for over two decades. Sometimes, that’s exactly what the market needs.