Indian utility vehicle giant Mahindra has begun testing the 2016 U301 Bolero, an all-new MUV based on a new platform. The 2016 U301 Bolero will replace the current version, which has served Mahindra for nearly a decade and a half (the Bolero was first launched in 2001).
The Bolero has been a consistent best seller in its segment and is in fact the largest selling vehicle in Mahindra’s passenger car range, with monthly sales averaging between 8,000-10,000 units. The Bolero platform has also been tweaked to accommodate a number of load carrying versions. Therefore, the new model has large boots to fill.
The new platform will result in the next-generation version of the Bolero retaining a ladder frame chassis, albeit with a lower weight due to hydroforming. The new MUV is also expected to be more fuel efficient than the outgoing Bolero due to downsized turbo diesel engines and the lower kerb weight.
The all-new model is expected to be launched by the end of next year. Expect the U301 Bolero to be made available in a variety of body shapes and seating configurations, as is the case with the current version. Sub-4 meter versions of the U301 Bolero are on the cards too.
The sub-4 meter versions will take advantage of lower excise duty with the help of downsized turbo diesel engines. The 1.5 liter-3 cylinder twin turbo diesel engine (98.6 Bhp-240 Nm), first seen on the Quanto, is expected to be the major engine offering on the new U301 Bolero.
Mahindra could also add start-stop and automated manual transmission technologies to the new Bolero, in order to make it a segment leader in terms of features on offer. The new Bolero is expected to be taller than the outgoing model, therefore addressing the headroom issues of the outgoing model. A taller stance is also expected to result in more comfortable middle row seats on the new MUV.
Spyshots courtesy IndianAutosBlog
