The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus has arrived, offering a compelling option for families seeking a spacious and affordable SUV. The base variant, P4, prioritizes practicality over bells and whistles. Let’s delve deeper and explore what the P4 variant has to offer.
A Familiar Face with Functional Flair
The wait is over! The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus, the much-anticipated successor to the TUV300 Plus, is finally gracing Indian roads. Available in two distinct trims, P4 and P10, the Bolero Neo Plus caters to a range of budgets and preferences. We’ll be focusing on the entry-level P4 variant in this detailed breakdown, providing a clear picture of its features and functionalities.
Exterior Design: Practicality Takes Center Stage
The P4 variant shares its core design language with its higher-spec counterpart, the P10. However, some subtle differences set them apart. The P4 features basic halogen headlights, lacking the follow-me-home functionality and front fog lamps found on the P10. The grille integrates black slats as opposed to the chrome finish on the top variant, reflecting a more utilitarian aesthetic.
As the base model, the P4 comes equipped with steel wheels, sans any decorative wheel covers. While it shares the black-finished door handles with the P10, the ORVM housings on the P4 are finished in black, contrasting with the body-colored housings on the higher trim. Mahindra has also excluded side footsteps from the P4 package, which are included on the P10.
Moving to the rear, the P4 boasts the same tailgate-mounted spare wheel as the P10. However, unlike the silver finish on the P10, the spare wheel on the P4 adopts the car’s body color for a more cohesive look. A rear footstep comes standard on the P4, enhancing accessibility for passengers, particularly families.
Stepping Inside: A Focus on Functionality
The utilitarian focus extends to the P4’s interior. The cabin prioritizes functionality over extravagant ornamentation, featuring a straightforward design with minimal use of contrasting colors. This approach translates to a no-frills environment, where essential features take precedence. Even basic amenities like a music system and a day/night IRVM are absent in the P4 variant.
However, the lack of bells and whistles doesn’t compromise on passenger capacity. The P4’s rear section boasts long side-facing jump seats, transforming the SUV into a 9-seater vehicle – perfect for accommodating larger families or groups.
Despite its focus on practicality, the P4 doesn’t skimp on essential features. Mahindra equips the P4 with all four power windows, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel for enhanced driver comfort, and a central locking system for added security.
Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road
Safety remains a top priority for Mahindra, and the P4 variant doesn’t disappoint. This base model comes equipped with dual front airbags, an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), and a reversing camera. This combination of features provides a reassuring level of safety for drivers and passengers alike.
Beyond the P4: Engine, Transmission, and Rivals
Powertrain: A Reliable Choice
Mahindra equips the Bolero Neo Plus with a single engine option across both variants – a proven 2.2-liter diesel engine that generates 120 PS of power and 280 Nm of torque. The P4 variant is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. However, if you’re seeking the convenience of an automatic gearbox or the added capability of a 4-wheel-drive system, you’ll need to consider the higher-spec P10 variant.
FAQs
Q: What is the price of the Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus P4?
A: The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus P4 has a starting price of Rs 11.39 lakh (ex-showroom pan-India).
Q: Does the P4 variant have any direct rivals?
A: While the P4 doesn’t have a direct competitor in terms of price point and features, it can be considered as a budget-friendly alternative to other Mahindra SUVs like the Mahindra Scorpio Classic and Scorpio N.
