Mahindra is gearing up to shake the SUV market once again. A new prototype has been spotted testing on Indian roads, heavily camouflaged but flaunting a bold and muscular silhouette. While initial reports suggest it could be the next-generation Mahindra Bolero, enthusiasts are speculating that it may also be a Thar Sport variant — a sportier, more lifestyle-oriented sibling of the iconic Thar.
With launch expected in late 2025 or early 2026, the new model seems to blend the rugged DNA of the Bolero with the urban appeal of the Thar. Here’s everything we know so far from spy shots, expert analysis, and Mahindra’s recent design philosophy.
🚗 Is This the New Bolero or Thar Sport?
The spied vehicle has the upright stance and ladder-frame underpinnings reminiscent of the Mahindra Bolero, India’s trusted utility SUV. However, the flared wheel arches, wider track, and redesigned front fascia hint at a sportier evolution, possibly labeled as Thar Sport or Bolero Neo Plus X.
Sources close to the company suggest this may be a bridge between the rugged Bolero and the lifestyle Thar, targeting both rural and urban buyers who want off-road capability with modern comfort.
🔍 Spy Shot Highlights
Recent spy images reveal several key changes:
- New Headlamp Design: Round LED DRLs with projector units
- Horizontal Slatted Grille: Bolder and wider than standard Bolero
- Square Wheel Arches: With chunky cladding
- Alloy Wheels: Likely 16 or 17 inches, dual-tone
- Raised Ground Clearance: Similar to Thar
- Rear Tailgate Mounted Spare Wheel: Signature Thar element
- Improved Cabin Insulation: Indicated by thicker window seals
Despite the camouflage, the SUV’s shape confirms a shift toward a more aggressive, youth-focused design language.
🧰 Expected Engine Options
While there’s no official confirmation yet, the next-gen Bolero/Thar Sport could offer multiple engine options depending on its positioning:
- 2.2L mHawk Diesel – Same as current Thar and Scorpio N
- 1.5L mHawk Diesel – Seen on Bolero Neo
- 2.0L mStallion Turbo Petrol – Possibly for higher variants
- Transmission – 6-speed manual and 6-speed torque converter automatic
- Drivetrain – Rear-wheel drive (RWD) standard, 4×4 likely for top-end
With the government’s push for clean mobility, Mahindra may also consider a mild-hybrid or BS6 Phase 2-compliant engine lineup.
🛋️ Interior and Features (Expected)
Though the interior hasn’t been revealed, Mahindra is known for loading its newer models with tech. Expect the following:
- Dual-tone dashboard with rugged finish
- 7- or 8-inch infotainment system with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
- Connected Car Technology – SOS alert, remote access
- Digital-Analog Instrument Cluster
- Multi-function Steering Wheel
- Power Windows, Electrically Adjustable ORVMs
- Dual Airbags, ABS with EBD, Hill Hold (top variants)
- Rear AC vents and 60:40 split seats (for family comfort)
The new Bolero/Thar Sport is expected to be far more comfortable and tech-savvy than the outgoing models.
🛡️ Safety First: Mahindra’s New Focus
Mahindra has been taking safety seriously, especially after the success of Scorpio N and XUV700 with 5-star GNCAP ratings. Expect the Thar Sport/New Bolero to include:
- 6 Airbags in top variants
- Traction Control and ESP
- TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System)
- Reinforced body structure
- ISOFIX child seat mounts
This approach will help Mahindra meet global NCAP norms, especially if the model is considered for export.
📅 Launch Timeline and Price Expectation
Based on the current testing phase and Mahindra’s typical product cycle:
- Launch Window: Late 2025 to Q1 2026
- Debut Possibility: Auto Expo 2026 or special unveil event
- Expected Price Range: ₹10 lakh to ₹15 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on variants and drivetrain
If it’s launched as a Thar Sport, expect a premium over the current Thar RWD variant. If positioned as a Bolero replacement, the pricing may start more affordably to retain its rural customer base.
👥 Target Audience
The new-gen model will appeal to:
- Young SUV enthusiasts looking for a sporty but affordable 4×4
- Rural users seeking rugged utility with added features
- Urban adventure seekers who want style and performance
- Small business owners who used older Bolero models and now want a modern upgrade
It will compete with the likes of Force Gurkha, Maruti Jimny, and even entry-level variants of Hyundai Creta or Tata Nexon, depending on how it’s priced.
🧠 Mahindra’s Strategy Behind the Move
Mahindra is smartly expanding its SUV portfolio. With the Thar, Scorpio N, and XUV700 already dominating their segments, the new Bolero/Thar Sport could fill a gap between rugged utility and urban appeal.
This model is likely to be:
- Built on the Scorpio N’s platform (ladder-frame)
- Offered in multiple body styles in the future (3-door, 5-door)
- Possibly part of Mahindra’s global SUV push, especially in Africa and South Asia
✅ Conclusion: A Bold New Chapter for Mahindra SUVs
The spotted test mule of the Mahindra Thar Sport or new Bolero signals an exciting transformation. No longer just a utility vehicle for rural roads, the new model is being shaped into a stylish, powerful, and practical SUV for modern India.
Whether it retains the Bolero badge or becomes an all-new variant like the Thar Sport, one thing is clear — Mahindra is ready to dominate yet another SUV segment.
Stay tuned, because the next-gen Mahindra SUV storm is coming — and it looks more muscular, modern, and mission-ready than ever before.
Hello, my name is Muskan Kumari and I am an experienced Digital Marketer. I have been blogging for the last 3 years and I have special interest in SEO. Here I give you easy bikes and writes easy-to-understand reviews and news about the latest bikes, helping readers choose the best options.. My aim is to always provide you with accurate, new and useful information.
