Mahindra has once again made headlines by launching a new version of its legendary SUV, the Mahindra Bolero, now available with a CNG option. Known for its rugged build and reliability in Indian road conditions, the Bolero has remained a favorite among both rural and urban buyers. With a starting price of ₹7.85 lakh (ex-showroom), Mahindra is aiming to offer a more fuel-efficient and environment-friendly option without compromising on power or utility.
This move comes at a time when fuel prices are high and buyers are looking for budget-friendly alternatives that deliver both value and performance. Let’s take a closer look at what this new CNG-powered Bolero has to offer.
Design & Style
The design of the new Mahindra Bolero hasn’t changed much from its previous version, and that’s actually a good thing. The Bolero continues to sport a strong, bold, and no-nonsense look. Its boxy silhouette, square headlights, and simple grille give it a solid, purposeful appearance that appeals to SUV lovers.
The CNG variant keeps the same tough body-on-frame structure, which is one of the key reasons behind Bolero’s durability. The SUV comes with sturdy bumpers, wheel arches, and minimal styling changes, keeping it functional rather than flashy. Mahindra has added new graphics and decals to give it a refreshed appearance.
Inside, the cabin is basic but functional. It has dual-tone interiors, comfortable seats, and a practical dashboard layout. It may not be premium, but it is clean, spacious, and made to handle rough use.
Engine & Performance
This is where the Mahindra Bolero CNG gets really interesting. Mahindra has added a 1.5-litre mHawk engine that supports both petrol and CNG modes. While the power output in CNG mode is slightly lower than petrol, it still offers decent torque, which is essential for carrying loads or driving on hilly terrains.
The engine is paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox that offers smooth gear shifts. It’s not the fastest SUV in the market, but it delivers a stable and composed ride, which is what Bolero buyers typically look for. It’s more about durability and less about speed.
In petrol mode, the SUV delivers a max power of 75 bhp and around 210 Nm of torque, while in CNG mode, the power drops slightly but still remains sufficient for city and highway use.
Mahindra Bolero CNG – Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5-litre mHawk, Petrol + CNG |
| Transmission | 5-speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Power Output | ~75 bhp (Petrol), ~60 bhp (CNG) |
| Torque | 210 Nm (Petrol), ~170 Nm (CNG) |
| Mileage (Claimed) | 26-28 km/kg (CNG) |
| Seating Capacity | 7 |
| Boot Space | Reduced (due to CNG tank) |
| Price Range | Starts at ₹7.85 lakh (ex-showroom) |
| Safety Features | ABS, Driver Airbag, Seatbelt Reminder |
| Suspension | Coil spring (front), leaf spring (rear) |
Ride & Handling
The Mahindra Bolero CNG is designed to handle rough Indian roads. It’s not a soft crossover or a luxury SUV – it’s a workhorse. The ride quality is firm, which helps while carrying heavy loads or going over potholes.
Mahindra continues to use its coil spring and leaf spring suspension setup, which works well in absorbing shocks on bad terrain. The steering is on the heavier side but manageable. Thanks to the tall stance and high ground clearance, the Bolero continues to be a favorite among those who need a utility vehicle for rural or mixed usage.
Handling on highways is stable, but it’s not meant for cornering or aggressive driving. It does the job it was built for — simple, reliable, point A to B travel.
Features & Tech
The new Bolero CNG isn’t packed with tech features, but it does come with the essentials. Here’s what you get:
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Power steering
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Manual air conditioning
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Digital instrument cluster
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Driver-side airbag
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ABS with EBD
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Central locking
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Bluetooth-compatible music system (in higher trims)
There are no fancy screens or connected car tech, but Mahindra has made sure you don’t miss out on basic modern features. It’s more focused on practicality than entertainment.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of this new Bolero is the fuel efficiency in CNG mode. Mahindra claims a mileage of around 26–28 km per kg of CNG, which makes it a much cheaper option for daily commuting or commercial use.
Compared to its diesel or petrol versions, the running cost in CNG is significantly lower. This is where the Bolero CNG becomes a strong value-for-money proposition for taxi owners, transporters, and even families looking to cut fuel expenses.
Do keep in mind that boot space is reduced due to the CNG tank installation.
Price & Variants
The starting price of the new Mahindra Bolero CNG is ₹7.85 lakh (ex-showroom). This puts it right in the sweet spot for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable, 7-seater SUV that won’t burn a hole in their pocket.The CNG variant is currently available in limited trims, but Mahindra may add more variants based on demand. Even in the base version, you get important safety and utility features.