Mahindra has unveiled a refreshed Bolero Classic lineup today, introducing three carefully positioned variants—B4, B6, and the flagship B8—that bring contemporary features to India’s most beloved workhorse while maintaining its rugged DNA.
Mahindra has priced Bolero Classic aggressively, with the B4 now starting at just ₹7.99 lakh (down from ₹8.79 lakh), making it even more accessible to value-conscious buyers. The mid-spec B6 is priced at ₹8.69 lakh, while the feature-loaded flagship B8 variant comes in at ₹9.69 lakh—delivering premium features at a competitive price point that undercuts many urban-focused compact SUVs.
The company also launched the Bolero Neo, starting at Rs 7.99 lakh.
The headline-grabbing B8 variant represents Mahindra’s most feature-rich Bolero Classic ever, targeting buyers who want modern conveniences without sacrificing the vehicle’s legendary toughness. This top-tier offering includes diamond-cut alloy wheels, a first for the Bolero range, signaling a clear aesthetic upgrade. The leatherette upholstery and enhanced seat comfort transform the cabin experience, while static bending headlamps and fog lamps improve visibility and safety.
Technology takes center stage with a 17.8 cm touchscreen infotainment system paired with steering-mounted controls, bringing smartphone connectivity and modern entertainment to traditional Bolero buyers. The Driver Information System (DIS) provides crucial vehicle data at a glance, while USB C-type charging ports acknowledge today’s device-dependent lifestyle.
All three variants feature Mahindra’s bold new grille and a striking Stealth Black color option, giving the Bolero a contemporary road presence. Safety is democratized across the range with dual airbags, ABS, and reverse parking sensors as standard—a significant leap for a vehicle traditionally focused on utility over luxury.
The innovative engine start-stop (micro-hybrid) technology addresses fuel efficiency concerns, while RideFlo Tech suspension ensures the ride quality that made Bolero famous on rough terrain. The practical foldable third-row seat maintains versatility for both passenger and cargo duties.
The B4 entry variant features vinyl seating and focuses on essentials, while the B6 mid-variant introduces the touchscreen system and fabric seats. The B8 crowns the lineup with premium touches that appeal to upwardly mobile buyers who’ve outgrown basic transportation but still need Bolero’s capability.
This refresh demonstrates Mahindra’s understanding that even traditional buyers expect modern safety, comfort, and connectivity—without compromising the utilitarian character that’s made the Bolero an icon for a quarter-century
Launched in 2000, this rugged utility vehicle was designed specifically for India’s diverse terrain and rural markets, becoming a cultural icon and a lifeline for millions. Now celebrating 25 years of legacy, the Bolero has proven its staying power in one of the world’s most competitive automotive markets.
The Bolero emerged during a transformative period in Indian automotive history, when the market was opening up to global players. While competitors focused on urban sophistication, Mahindra doubled down on utility and affordability. The Bolero quickly became synonymous with reliability in semi-urban and rural India, where its no-frills approach resonated deeply with farmers, small business owners, and transporters.
For Mahindra & Mahindra, the Bolero has been nothing short of a cash cow.
Consistently delivering approximately 1 lakh (100,000) units annually, it ranks among India’s top-selling utility vehicles, often outselling more modern competitors. The vehicle has generated steady revenue streams for decades, helping fund Mahindra’s expansion into electric vehicles, tractors, and global markets. It represents the company’s deep understanding of the Indian heartland’s needs. It is the company’s longest running car brand, after Scorpio.
The Bolero occupies a unique niche—the practical, affordable multi-utility vehicle segment. Mahindra has smartly evolved this into a dual sub-brand strategy: the original Bolero remains positioned as “tough, reliable, and authentic,” dominating Tier 2/3 cities among SMEs and government institutions. Meanwhile, the Bolero Neo (launched in 2021) targets Tier 1 and urban markets with “modern style, comfort, and features,” appealing to young professionals and large families. This segmentation allows Mahindra to capture diverse customer bases without cannibalizing sales.
The Bolero’s evolution showcases strategic refreshes: a 2007 repositioning, the introduction of the m2DiCR engine in 2011, the more powerful mHawk engine in 2016, and a comprehensive 2020 refresh before the Neo variant arrived in 2021. This measured approach maintained brand identity while meeting modern requirements. However, meeting stringent BS6 emission norms posed challenges, and the traditional Bolero faces criticism for outdated interiors compared to contemporary alternatives.
The Bolero’s strengths are well known: exceptional ground clearance, robust ladder-frame chassis, powerful diesel engine, and seating for seven-plus passengers. Its serviceability across India’s vast network, affordability of spare parts, and ability to handle poor roads with heavy loads make it irreplaceable for many. The vehicle’s reputation for lasting 500,000+ kilometers with proper maintenance cements its value proposition.