Mahindra has been testing the possible next generation Bolero SUV (Codenamed U301) in and around Chennai, which is the R&D centre for Mahindra. Interestingly, the new U301 compact SUV has been spotted testing in Germany. A heavily camouflaged test mule of the next Bolero has been caught in lenses.
The test mule suggests a production ready baby SUV. The next Bolero U301 SUV will be based on a new Ladder-frame platform and will be offered in both sub-4 metre and seven-seater version. This vehicle is not likely to go on sale in the European markets. The company seems testing this compact vehicle on different terrains and climate conditions.
The new generation Mahindra Bolero is expected to go on sale in the Indian car market by 2015 end or early next year. It will compete against the likes of Ford EcoSport, Renault Duster and Nissan Terrano. The seven-seater version would serve as a people carrier, and would rival against the likes of Movus, Sumo Gold and Chevrolet Tavera.
The next generation Bolero would be powered by a newly developed 1.2-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged petrol. The oil burner is likely to be the 1.5-litre turbo diesel motor that also powers the Quanto SUV. The U301 SUV is likely to be priced in the range of Rs. 6 to 9 lakh.
Source: MotoringÂ
