New Mahindra SUV Spotted Testing; Is This The New Bolero?

Mahindra’s long-serving workhorse, the Bolero, is preparing for a generational overhaul. A camouflaged test mule of the upcoming model has been spotted for the first time, offering a glimpse into what could be a major evolution of the rugged SUV. Expected to hit the market in 2026, the new-generation Bolero is internally codenamed U171 and is being built on an entirely new platform.

Spy images reveal a significant departure from the boxy, utilitarian design the Bolero has carried forward for over two decades. While Mahindra appears to have retained the upright proportions and flat roofline that have long defined the SUV’s silhouette, the newer model embraces modern design cues. Rounded edges, flush-fitting door handles, and redesigned headlamps and taillights bring a more urban-friendly appeal to the iconic Bolero.

At the front, the SUV features circular projector headlights and a slatted grille with Mahindra’s signature Twin Peaks logo, drawing some styling parallels with the newer Scorpio N. Other notable updates include chunkier front and rear bumpers, flared wheel arches, redesigned ORVMs, and larger alloy wheels. At the rear, vertical LED tail-lamps and a side-hinged tailgate with a mounted spare wheel retain the functional DNA that Bolero is known for, especially in rural and Tier 3 markets.

Perhaps the biggest change is what lies beneath. The upcoming Bolero will ditch the traditional body-on-frame construction in favour of Mahindra’s all-new New Flexible Architecture (NFA)—a modular, monocoque platform that will underpin multiple future products. This move signals Mahindra’s intent to make the Bolero more refined, safer, and capable of accommodating various powertrain types.

The NFA platform is set to debut on August 15, 2025, possibly with the Bolero’s concept version being showcased. This architecture is versatile enough to support petrol, diesel, hybrid, and even fully electric powertrains. 

The current-generation Bolero has remained a strong performer in the semi-urban and rural markets, thanks to its durability and affordability. However, it lags behind in safety and feature updates—pain points that Mahindra now appears ready to address. While the current Bolero hasn’t been crash-tested by Global NCAP, the related Bolero Neo scored just 1 star, a rating considered inadequate by modern safety standards. 

Image Source: IG/ @ar_idharan