While today we have endless options to choose from when planning to buy a 7-seater SUV, some car models have stood the test of time over decades. Once considered to be a people mover, the 'SUV' has now evolved into being an aspirational product, loaded with hi-tech features and sporting exorbitant price tags. Hence, the key fundamental of being a practical people mover has faded into the background and being the most imposing and flashy vehicle on the road seems to be the current focus.
Also Read: 2025 Mahindra Bolero Facelift Variant Explainer - What's New In Top-End B8 Variant?
However, there are still some authentic models that have stood the test of time, evolved through the years but without taking a step away from the core fundamental of being
a cost-effective vehicle that can transport people and goods to difficult areas across different terrains. One such name, is the Mahindra Bolero, which was first launched in the year 2000 and has since become a staple on Indian roads. Here is a timeline on the evolution journey of the humble and rugged Bolero.
1. OG Mahindra Bolero - 2000
In April 2000, Mahindra launched the Bolero in India as a practical 7-seater SUV that would take a step away from the crude and uncomfortable impression of the vehicle type and establish it as a comfortable and stylish alternative for sedan and hatchback buyers. At the time, it was based on the Mahindra Armada Grand, which was a big hit in the transport sector. Priced at an attractive Rs 4.90 lakh ex-showroom, the Bolero was born in-house with an investment of just Rs 20 crore.
2. Bolero's First Major Update - 2006
While the Bolero was Mahindra's first attempt at an SUV for the urban buyers, the arrival of the first Scorpio led to new benchmarks that left the Bolero looking like a basic utility vehicle. Hence, Mahindra brought in the second-generation Bolero in 2006, this time positioning it as an 'Entry Level SUV'. The Bolero received an exterior redesign and interior updates while retaining the 7-seater flexibility. The updated MDI diesel engine was replaced with a CRDe diesel engine with micro-hybrid tech in 2008.
3. New-Gen Bolero With m2DiCR Engine - 2011
The next big chapter in the Bolero's journey was the introduction of the m2DiCR (CRDi) engine. The Common Rail Direct Injection technology made the Bolero more fuel efficient, powerful and refined to drive. It was also designed to meet stricter emission rules. In terms of design, we saw minor updates and by this era, the Bolero has already created its niche in the mass market.
4. Bolero Gets BS6 Update And Facelift - 2020
For nearly a decade, the Bolero continued on its success journey without any hassle or big updates. However, with the early rollout of BS6 emission norms, it now became the first SUV to comply with the new regulations. The design of the 2020 Bolero was also updated with sharper headlamps, new bumper and foglamp placements and updates to the interior. However, once again, the Bolero evolved without much effort or pretense and continued to be the workhorse that it is.
5. 2025 Bolero Facelift With RideFlo & Touchscreen:
25 years since its journey started, the humble Bolero has yet again seen a significant facelift that makes it modern but still preserves the fundamentals of the SUV. It now gets blingier with a set of 15-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, gets a new Stealth Black colour and also integrated infotainment via a 7-inch touchscreen and steering-mounted media controls. However, the Bolero's biggest victory would be that even after 25 years, it still has a starting price of just Rs 7.99 lakh. When compared to the first generation's 4.90 lakh price tag, we would say that the Bolero has increased in value proposition a lot more than its price.
What's Next?
While the mighty Bolero has remained largely unchanged for over two decades, this might be the last facelift that takes the legacy forward. Mahindra has been testing new SUVs and a new-generation Bolero is reported to be in the works. However, considering that the Scorpio Classic is still on sale years after the arrival of the Scorpio-N, Bolero fans can keep their fingers crossed.
Keep reading Times Now Auto for more updates on your favourite SUVs.
