Mahindra has released the new Bolero MaXX PiK-Up single cab workhorse as the next phase of their "single-cab strategy." The strategy comes as the brand moves to offer more purpose-built vehicles to cater to people within the commercial workspace, as opposed to just offering cars and models to those who buy lifestyle vehicles from the brand.
The India-based brand has always been known for producing more commercial and utilitarian vehicles that catered only to those in the commercial space, but in recent times, we've seen a shift that aims to target the passenger segment, which has been booming in South Africa. There was even a change in the brand logo, which seeks to usher in a more inclusive Twin- Peak era, as they call it, that has brought about more family- and passenger-oriented cars that still embody a bit of ruggedness.
The Bolero MaXX builds on a legacy of reliability and durability
You can not spell Bolero without highlighting its history of being a very trusted and delivery especially when performance is questioned. The Pik-Up has a proven m2Di diesel engine, which produces 52 kW and 200 Nm in the 1.3 City and 1.5 City models, and 60 kW and 220 Nm in the 1.7 HD. All variants feature rear-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission.
There is a Bolero for every kind of buyer
A workhorse needs to be a loyal steed that caters to an exact kind of workforce, and so Mahindra offers the vehicle in three body styles, adding to its versatility : 1.3 City, 1.5 City and 1.7 HD. With payload capacities of 1.3 tonnes, 1.5 tonnes and 1.7 tonnes respectively, the range is designed to support a wide variety of commercial applications while delivering strong efficiency, productivity and operating economics.
Despite their generous load-carrying capability, all Bolero MaXX models can be driven with a standard Code B driver's licence. Their compact dimensions, low mass and maneuverability also make them well suited to operating in areas where larger commercial vehicles may face access constraints.
Is the cabin as hard core as the exterior of the vehicle?
While the Bolero MaXX Pik-Up is designed as a capable workhorse, Mahindra did not ditch their found ability to offer an adequate amount of comfort for the driver and occupants. The cabin features wide cloth seats in a driver-plus-two configuration and in 1.5 City and 1.7 HD models, the seats are finished with a stain-resistant coating, while the driver's seat offers a reclining function along with reach and height adjustment.
some more on board amenities feature Air conditioning, a lockable air-cooled glovebox, bottle holders, cabin lamps and a 12V power socket.
Safety remains somewhat of a focus for Mahindra as the car comes equipped with rear parking sensors standard across the range, underbody and side protection on the HD variant, an immobiliser, and emergency locking retractor (ELR) whilst seatbelts for the driver and passengers further contribute to occupant and vehicle protection.
However, it seems the Bolero has no airbags at all. This is because the vehicle is built as a bare-bones commercial workhorse, so airbags are left out to keep the starting price low.
Pricing
Bolero MaXX is available in City and HD variants. City comes in two configurations: 1.3 and 1.5. Model pricing is as follows:
Bolero Maxx City 1.3 – R 199 000
Bolero Maxx City 1.5 – R 229 000
Bolero Maxx HD 1.7 – R 259 000
For added peace of mind, every Bolero MaXX is backed by a 4-year/120 000 km standard warranty and roadside assistance, with optional service plans available for customers seeking fixed and predictable ownership costs.
It is quite impressive to see a brand that was fairly known for doing one thing only experience a large share of success after venturing into another side of production. The likes of the Mahindra 3X0 and Scorpio have brought the brand good bargaining power, and the newly revealed Lifestyler bakkie looks to be a great continuation of where the brand is going, with subtle reminders like the Bolero hinting at where the brand is coming from.