The Mahindra Bolero Neo, a compact SUV, recently underwent crash testing as part of Global NCAP’s Safer Cars for India programme, resulting in a 1-star rating for both adult and child protection. The SUV was evaluated with only two standard airbags and fell short on various safety parameters, leading to its low rating.
Crash Test Details
In the latest protocols, the Bolero Neo secured 20.26 points out of a possible 34. Global NCAP’s report highlighted concerns about the vehicle’s unstable structure, particularly in the footwell area, as well as weak chest protection and inadequate feet protection for the driver. Notably, the Bolero Neo lacks curtain airbags and seat belt reminders for all passengers.
Child Occupant Protection
For child occupant protection, the Bolero Neo scored 12.71 out of 49 points. The absence of three-point seat belts for all passengers, a passenger airbag switch, and limited child restraint systems contributed to the low scores in this category, despite “acceptable dynamic performance” in child protection.
Additional Issues
The presence of side-facing third-row seats further contributed to the SUV’s low rating. Global NCAP criticized Mahindra for not meeting safety expectations due to this seating arrangement.
Context and Future Developments
The Bolero Neo’s poor performance contrasts with other Mahindra models like the Scorpio N, XUV700, and XUV300, which have achieved higher safety ratings. Notably, the Bolero Neo is based on an older platform and is expected to be replaced within two years by a new platform currently in development at Mahindra.
In addition to the Bolero Neo, Global NCAP tested other vehicles like the Honda Amaze and the Kia Carens MPV in this assessment round. These evaluations mark the final stages of the Safer Cars for India campaign as Bharat NCAP is fully implemented.
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