The 2019 Mahindra Bolero equipped with ABS has
started reaching dealerships ahead of an impending launch. Here are the first
images of the updated model, shared by YouTuber Ujjwal Saxena with IAB.
Beginning 1 April 2019, ABS has become mandatory in
all M1 category vehicles. It is required to be fitted as standard. In the
Mahindra Bolero, though, ABS wasn't available even optionally. The safety
update is finally coming to the aged model now, as seen in the below image.
Strangely, the ABS indicator has been positioned beside the engine auto
start-stop button on the dashboard instead of inside the instrument panel.
The Bolero has been Mahindra's bread and butter
offering from the last 19 years. Last fiscal, nearly 80,000 units were sold.
It's clear why the company doesn't want to give up on this model even after so
many years. However, ensuring that it remains compliant with the latest
regulations is not going to be an easy task.
While ABS just became mandatory, from 1 July 2019,
all M1 category vehicles will be required to feature speed alert system, driver
and co-driver SBR, manual override for central locking system and rear parking
sensors as standard. From 1 October 2019, clearing crash tests for driver and
passenger safety under BNVSAP will become mandatory. On 1 April 2020, BS-VI
emission norms will come into effect. From 1 October 2020, BNVSAP will take
into account pedestrian safety as well.
Instead of introducing a second generation Bolero,
Mahindra will continue upgrading the old model as and when required. For
example, to make the utility vehicle safer for pedestrians in case of a mishap,
the company will introduce a higher bonnet, a softer bumper and a redesigned
grille with a minor refresh in the coming months. To meet the BS-VI emission
standards, it will simply upgrade the 2.5L m2DiCR engine, which, in BS-IV form,
develops 63 PS of maximum power at 3,200 rpm and 195 NM of peak
torque at 1,400-2,200 rpm.
