[Yogesh Sarkar]

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. (M&M), the leader in the UV segment in India, today launched the most powerful Bolero yet - the Bolero VLX with CRDe technology. The modern 2.49L Common Rail Diesel Engine (CRDe) belts out an awesome 97 HP and ensures a superior pick-up with smoother drive. The Bolero VLX is priced at Rs. 6.9 lakhs (ex-showroom Jaipur).



“The Bolero VLX offers a quantum leap in power and performance due to an Electronic Computer Controlled engine management system. It also offers a superior driving experience and an advanced level of refinement with reduced NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) levels. This rugged, yet stylish SUV has enough power to whip up a storm and is ideal for the young, urban customer who takes to the city and the open road with equal ease,” said Dr. Pawan Goenka, President, Automotive Sector, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

In the Bolero VLX, injection pressure independent of the engine speed and flat torque over a wide speed range ensure greater driveability and control. An advanced active surge damper reduces jerks during gear shifts to offer a smooth ride. The superior NGT 530R transmission and upgraded front suspension are ideal to take on tough terrain. The Bolero VLX also features a sophisticated Voice Assist System which makes the drive safer through an audio alert which warns the driver in case the door is left open or a seat belt is unfastened.

The vehicle’s stunning body graphics add a dash of style to this powerful SUV. The premium dual-tone upholstery and elegant seating ensures that passengers travel in comfort while the stylish dashboard and trendy instrument cluster add a touch of class to the interiors. The soft grip, leather wrapped steering wheel has a sporty feel and enhances driver comfort.

[hitanshu]

ah dang, NOW they introduce it.

Anyways, its a waste till they introduce a VLS system along with it. This is freaking expensive. 8L for a bolero is ridiculous anyday when the same turbo CRDe is there for 8.2, OR the Sumo Grande for 7.7ish.

Good I went with the Swift D. The VLX wasn't worth waiting for.

[anupmathur]

You're comparing apples to oranges!
Not one of the vehicles you have listed is in the same class as a Swift!

[hitanshu]

Sir,

money hai toh honey hai- jitna gud hai, woh swift D ke liye kaafi hai.

Definitely not worth waiting for the VLX - 97 HP is SLOW. Its a tavera competitor really.

[anupmathur]

- 97 HP is SLOW. Its a tavera competitor really.

As they say, to each his own.
I'm saying this because I have never been quite able to reconcile the need for speed with a touring vehicle.
The two, IMO, are essentially unrelated.
Next is the issue of WHO goes in for a so-called touring vehicle, a UV if you please, as opposed to cars/sedans/hatchbacks that are also good for touring. That, again my opinion, is decided by WHERE one wishes to travel.

In general, I would say, if the himalayas are the first love, as they are for me,
I would recommend a touring vehicle as in UV/SUV class. These do a fine job even for city commutes and the bonus is that pesky autorickshaws and the like actually GIVE you right of way! The con is that the parking problems increase!
I have a close relative who enjoys his Tavera to the fullest! He keeps the gears right and seldom has reason to complain about lethargy.

Paper SPECS seldom tell the FULL story. Kindly revise your reliance on them!

[Yogesh Sarkar]

Agree with what Anup sir has said, two different completely different class of vehicles. It is like comparing HP2 with Fazer

[hitanshu]

saar


My point is simple - I had a pot of cash, which was insufficient for the Grande/Scorp/Safari. The Bolero would've fit but it was too slow/lethargic in braking.

I had been waiting for the VLX to solve that aspect, but its gotten the price/performance bit wrong (the torque curve isnt also too flat, but let's leave that) so I'm happy I didn't wait. It is not anywhere as aspirational - and the price is no longer that of a UV.

PS: I respectfully disagree completely. For touring, yes you don't need a vehicle with class leaing 0-60-0 but it doesnt hurt to have a vehicle that can accelerate or brake out of trouble. Or lets you languish in traffic. The Bolero is rugged but lacks that punch - the VLX adds it, but makes it unaffordable.
PPS: Its like the saying - well trained reflexes are better than luck. You can go very slow, but at any speed, one needs to be able to REACT fast. Bolero cant.

[amitmaggoo]

The con is that the parking problems increase!

Agree fully...