By Malusi Msomi

Mahindra South Africa has expanded its single-cab offering with the introduction of the new Bolero MaXX Pik-Up, a range of work-focused bakkies aimed at customers who prioritise payload capacity, running costs and durability.

The new Bolero MaXX is available in three variants, with payload capacities ranging from 1.3 to 1.7 tonnes. Pricing starts at R199,000 for the City 1.3T, while the range tops out at R259,000 for the 1.7T HD.

Mahindra says the new model is aimed at entrepreneurs, fleet operators, agricultural businesses, contractors and municipalities, with the focus firmly placed on keeping operating costs down.

Three variants, three payload options

The Bolero MaXX range consists of the 1.3 City, 1.5 City and 1.7 HD. As their names suggest, the three models offer payload capacities of 1,300 kg, 1,500 kg and 1,700 kg respectively.

The load body also grows with each model. The 1.3 City gets a 2.5-metre load body, the 1.5 City has a 2.64-metre load body, while the 1.7 HD gets a 3.05-metre load body.

All three can accommodate a standard pallet between the wheel arches, giving buyers some flexibility when it comes to carrying commercial loads.

Despite their payload capabilities, all three variants can be driven with a standard Code B driver’s licence. Mahindra also highlights their relatively compact dimensions and manoeuvrability, which should make them easier to operate in areas where larger commercial vehicles could struggle with access.

The existing Pik Up S4 and S6 models will remain available alongside the Bolero MaXX, with Mahindra positioning those models towards higher-speed and longer-distance applications.

Diesel power and low running costs

All three Bolero MaXX variants are powered by Mahindra’s 2.5-litre m2Di diesel engine, although outputs differ depending on the model.

The 1.3 City and 1.5 City produce 52 kW and 200 Nm, while the 1.7 HD increases this to 60 kW and 220 Nm.

Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual transmission across the range.

Mahindra claims fuel consumption from 5.9 L/100km, while service intervals are set at 20,000 km. For a vehicle aimed at businesses and commercial operators, keeping fuel and maintenance costs under control will be an important part of the Bolero MaXX’s appeal.

Each model comes with a four-year/120,000 km warranty and roadside assistance as standard. Optional service plans are also available for customers wanting more predictable ownership costs.

What’s included?

The Bolero MaXX is primarily designed as a workhorse, but Mahindra has added a selection of features aimed at making life behind the wheel more comfortable.

The cabin uses a driver-plus-two seating configuration, with wide cloth seats. The 1.5 City and 1.7 HD receive stain-resistant seat coverings, while the driver’s seat gets reclining, reach and height adjustment.

Air conditioning, heating and demisting are standard on the 1.5 City and 1.7 HD. These models also receive an air-cooled, lockable glovebox, bottle holders, cabin lamps and a 12V power socket.

Safety equipment includes rear parking sensors across the range, while ABS is available on the 1.5 City and 1.7 HD.

The 1.7 HD also gets underbody and side protection, alongside stronger metal bumpers. An immobiliser and emergency locking retractor (ELR) seatbelts for the driver and passengers are fitted across the range.

Pricing

Bolero MaXX City 1.3T: R199,000

Bolero MaXX City 1.5T: R229,000

Bolero MaXX HD 1.7T: R259,000