Mahindra unveils new Lifestyler pickup set to compete with Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger

Mahindra has released an updated version of its legendary Bolero pickup, naming it the Bolero MaXX Pik-Up. This model is aimed at commercial buyers looking for the lowest cost per kilometer, offering a starting price below the 200,000 Rand mark.

The basic Bolero MaXX City 1.3T is available for 199,000 Rand. Note that the '1.3' refers not to the engine displacement but to the payload capacity the base version can handle—1.3 tons. More expensive variants include the City 1.5 (1 ton) for 229,000 Rand and the 'Heavy Duty' HD 1.7 (1.7 tons) model priced at 259,000 Rand. The payload capacity of these models ranges from 1.3 to 1.5 tons.

These prices place the Bolero MaXX among the most affordable pickups in South Africa. Competitors mentioned include the Ashok Leyland Dost with a 1.25-ton payload starting from 179,900 Rand, the Suzuki Super Carry 1.2 (with a 750 kg payload from 197,900 Rand), the DFSK K01S (for 198,950 Rand, 985 kg), and the Foton Truckmate TM3 (for 199,900 Rand, 1.2 tons).

Although Mahindra offers a larger model than its rivals and equips it with the largest engine, it lacks turbocharging. All three models are powered by a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated diesel engine of the 'm2Di' type. In the 1.3 City and 1.5 City models, this engine produces 52 kW of power and 200 Nm of torque, while in the 1.7 HD version, the figures are 60 kW and 220 Nm. Drive is provided to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox.

Like its competitors, the Bolero MaXX is not equipped with critical safety systems; none of the versions have airbags, and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is only installed starting from the 1.5 City model. The City 1.5 and HD 1.7 models are equipped with air conditioning.

Comfort in the base model is extremely limited: the only noticeable features are steering and a rear parking sensor. To get ventilation, air conditioning, heating, dehumidifying, and a 'powerful blower system', one must upgrade to the 1.5 City model. The 1.5 and 1.7 models also receive interior lighting, a 12V socket, cup holders, and a lockable ventilated glove box.

Mahindra asserts that all three variants can be driven with a standard Code B driver's license. Regarding payload, all versions are capable of carrying a standard pallet between the wheel arches, although the cargo bed length differs: 2.5 meters for the 1.3 City, 2.64 meters for the 1.5 City, and 3.05 meters for the 1.7 HD.

Ankit Taneyjee, CEO of Mahindra South Africa, stated that the launch of the Bolero MaXX is an important step in developing the company's single-cab portfolio. He added that, being built on the Bolero brand, which has earned the trust of South African customers over the past 22 years, this model strengthens the company's ability to offer specialized solutions for a wider range of commercial applications.

The Mahindra Bolero MaXX Pik-Up comes with a four-year or 120,000 km warranty, as well as roadside assistance; maintenance plans are optional.

Mahindra has released a teaser for its new SUV, which will appear in an updated version. This vehicle is scheduled to launch on August 15 and will include a number of significant improvements.

The focus is on the Mahindra BE 6 Sporteq, whose first teaser was presented by the company. This update is considered major for the BE 6 model. The release of the teaser allowed Mahindra to confirm the launch date, removing uncertainty about what the brand would present on August 15.

Some features of the car were revealed in the teaser. The upcoming Mahindra SUV will feature a complex of three screens on the dashboard. Currently, this model is equipped with a two-screen system. The new version will add a 12.3-inch passenger display, transforming the entire system into a three-screen display distributed across the dashboard.

Currently, the BE 6 has a two-screen configuration, including a driver display and an infotainment screen. Mahindra is presenting this update amid growing competition in the premium electric SUV segment. Recently, Tata released the Sierra EV, which is also equipped with a three-screen system.

In addition to the three-screen system, the BE 6 Sporteq will have a matte black exterior. As for the interior, the car will feature brown-toned upholstery, along with red accents that emphasize its sporty nature.

It is expected that changes to the battery and engine will not occur. Currently, this SUV is available with battery capacities of 59 kWh and 79 kWh. The smaller battery option provides 231 hp and 380 Nm of torque, while the larger battery option delivers 285 hp and 380 Nm of torque.

The claimed range for the 59 kWh battery option is 548 kilometers, while the 79 kWh option can travel 683 kilometers. Furthermore, the car is equipped with features such as multi-level regenerative braking, one-pedal driving, and various driving modes, and it is expected that these will also remain unchanged.