Mahindra Bolero NEO Plus 9 Seater P10 | 2025 | Top Model | Real Life Review
The Mahindra Bolero has long held a special place in the hearts of Indian car enthusiasts, particularly among those who prioritize ruggedness, reliability, and practicality. Today, we dive into the latest iteration: the 2025 Mahindra Bolero NEO Plus P10, a robust 9-seater that brings a plethora of features while staying true to the Bolero spirit. Buckle up as we explore this vehicle from the inside out, looking at why it’s a compelling choice for family road trips, business use, and everything in between.
First Impressions
Pulling up to the Bolero NEO Plus is like meeting an old friend—familiar yet improved. The muscular stance remains, with a bold grille, prominent wheel arches, and a commanding road presence that screams “adventure.” The new LED DRLs give it a modern touch, while the high ground clearance reminds you that this is a vehicle built for some serious terrain.
Seating Capacity and Comfort
Now, let’s talk about the heart of this beast—the seating capacity. With a configuration designed to accommodate up to 9 passengers, the Mahindra Bolero NEO Plus 2025 doesn’t skimp on comfort. The middle bench can comfortably fit three adults, and the third row, while best suited for children or shorter adults, adds to the overall practicality.
During my test drive, I loaded the Bolero with a mix of family and friends for a weekend getaway. While we were snug, nobody complained about discomfort. The clever interior layout, with foldable seats, allowed us to adjust cargo space easily. Whether you’re headed to a family function or a group outing, the NEO Plus flexibly caters to your needs.
Performance Like No Other
Equipped with a robust 2.2-liter diesel engine, the Bolero NEO Plus P10 churns out a respectable 130 bhp and a torque of 300 Nm. What does that mean in real terms? On the highways, it offers a smooth drive, easily cruising at speeds above 100 km/h without breaking a sweat. The 5-speed manual gearbox, though not the fanciest option out there, provides an engaging driving experience that’s both intuitive and responsive.
In urban scenarios, however, the real charm shines. I found it surprisingly easy to navigate through traffic, thanks to its compact dimensions and turning radius. Off the beaten path, the Bolero’s high ground clearance and tough chassis inspire confidence, making it suitable for rural terrains and uneven roads.
Fuel Efficiency
No one wants to constantly visit the petrol station, right? The Bolero NEO Plus boasts decent fuel efficiency—around 15-17 km/l, depending on your driving style. That’s not groundbreaking, but considering its capacity and comfort, it provides a fair trade-off for both city and highway driving.
Features That Matter
Step inside, and the upmarket dashboard layout greets you. The infotainment system, which includes Bluetooth connectivity, will keep the family entertained on those long drives—though I admit, some might miss a touch screen in the 9-seater segment. Still, the carefully placed cup holders and storage compartments make family outings far more convenient.
Safety is a primary concern for many buyers. The Bolero NEO Plus is equipped with ABS, EBD, and dual airbags, ensuring peace of mind during your journeys.
Pricing and Value
As of 2025, the Bolero NEO Plus P10 is priced around ₹12-14 lakhs (ex-showroom), which places it well within the competitive segment of SUVs and MPVs. Given the space, performance, and Mahindra’s legacy of durability, this price point feels justified. For larger families or small businesses looking for a reliable transport option, the Bolero NEO Plus presents an excellent value proposal.
Pros and Cons
Let’s break it down:
Pros:
- Generous Seating Capacity: Perfect for large families or group travel.
- Rugged Build Quality: Ready for all kinds of terrains.
- Comfortable Interior: Decent legroom and headspace.
- Good Fuel Efficiency: Competitive in its class.
Cons:
- Third Row Limitations: Best suited for children or short trips.
- Basic Infotainment: Lacks a touch screen feature.
- Handling in Cornering: Not the most agile when taking sharp turns.
Real-World Example
During my recent trip from Mumbai to Lonavala, we loaded the Bolero with luggage and six adults. Despite the weight, it performed admirably uphill, tackling the winding roads with ease. The large windows and overall visibility made navigating through the winding hill roads much easier. Plus, we were able to stop at scenic spots without worrying about where to park—its compact nature really shines in crowded tourist areas.
Final Thoughts
The Mahindra Bolero NEO Plus P10 is a compelling choice for those who need space, reliability, and ruggedness. Its 2025 model year brings enough enhancements to keep both loyal customers and new buyers excited. While it’s not without its drawbacks, the overall package it offers makes it a worthy contender in the crowded Indian automobile market. If you’re on the lookout for a vehicle that combines family utility with adventure-ready capabilities, the Bolero NEO Plus just might be your ticket to unforgettable journeys.
So, what do you think? Ready to take the plunge into Bolero territory and make some memories?
Utsav is an automobile enthusiast and auto news writer with 2+ years of experience in the Indian car industry. He has covered major launches, done detailed car reviews, and follows trends in the EV segment.