Bolero Neo Plus launched in India
The Mahindra Bolero Neo Plus was launched in India, after a considerable period, with a starting price of Rs. 11.39 lakh (ex-showroom). There are two variants and five colour options with only diesel power and RWD on offer. But throw in another Rs 18000 and you can have the entry-level Kia Carens diesel. At first glance, the choice seems obvious but look closer and there is a quite bit on offer from both cars
FWD Vs RWD
The first and most obvious difference is that the Bolero Neo Plus engine powers the rear wheels via the Kia Carens it’s an FWD car. However, the output is closely matched with the Kia’s 1.5-litre engine producing 113bhp/250Nm while the 2.2-litre engine in the Bolero Neo produces 118bhp/280Nm. Both are offered with a six-speed manual. The additional 30Nm of torque may not seem like a lot but will help when Neo is fully loaded either with cargo or personnel.
Seven-seats Vs nine-seats
This is a big difference between both cars in terms of seating capacity. The Carens in this entry-level guise is a seven-seat model with a bench second row while the Bolero Neo Plus has side-facing third-row seats for four people to sit. Given the Mahindra’s length, fitting four people in the back will always be a bit of a squeeze but it’s four seats nonetheless. The Carens’ third row is surprisingly roomy and with the ability to adjust the seat back, you do flexibility in terms of space within for the occupants.
Entertainment and safety features
In terms of entertainment, you get a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB connectivity in the Bolero Neo while the Kia is a 2-DIN head unit with FM and USB compatibility. The former’s feature list also includes height adjustment for the driver’s seat, driver armrest and alloy wheels. Safety is one place where the Kia is a clear winner over the Bolero Neo Plus. You now get six airbags as standard across the range, speed warning, TPMS, seat belt reminder and a three-star rating in the last round of GNCAP crash tests. The Bolero Neo Plus gets dual front airbags, seat belt reminders and speed warnings as a part of the package.
Appeal of design
The Kia is more crossover-like with a mix between the MPV shape and SUV design elements while the Bolero Neo Plus is clearly a boxy SUV with squared-off wheel arches and a sharp shoulder line rounding off the back of the vehicle.
The choice
Ultimately, it boils down to three things in decreasing order of preference. First is body style followed by purpose of use and finally feature list.