With the increasing demand for 7-seater vehicles in India, two strong contenders in the market are the Mahindra Bolero and the Suzuki Ertiga. Both vehicles offer unique features, from rugged off-road capabilities to family-friendly comfort. But which one is the best fit for your needs? Let’s compare these two giants in terms of specs, prices, and safety features to help you make an informed decision.
1. mahindra Bolero: Built for Toughness
The Mahindra Bolero has long been known for its ruggedness and off-road prowess, making it a top choice for those who need a durable and reliable vehicle for rural areas, rough terrains, or long drives.
Key Specifications
· Engine: 1.5L 3-cylinder mHawk75 diesel engine
· Power Output: 75 bhp
· Torque: 210 Nm
· Transmission: 5-speed manual
· Mileage: Around 16-17 km/l (varies based on driving conditions)
· Dimensions: Length: 3995mm, Width: 1745mm, Height: 1880mm
· Boot Space: 300 liters
· Seating Capacity: 7 seats (with a third-row bench)
Performance
· The Bolero is powered by a diesel engine that delivers enough torque for tough terrains.
· It excels in providing a rugged, high-ground clearance experience, ideal for off-roading and rural driving.
· While it’s not built for speed or luxury, it handles heavy-duty usage well, making it perfect for larger families with diverse driving needs.
2. Suzuki Ertiga: The Family-Friendly Ride
On the other hand, the Suzuki Ertiga is a more urban-centric 7-seater that provides a perfect balance of comfort, fuel efficiency, and stylish design. Known for its smooth ride quality and spacious interiors, the Ertiga is a strong contender in the MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment.
Key Specifications
· Engine: 1.5L K15C petrol engine (mild-hybrid)
· Power Output: 103 bhp
· Torque: 137 Nm
· Transmission: 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
· Mileage: Around 19-20 km/l (petrol)
· Dimensions: Length: 4395mm, Width: 1735mm, Height: 1690mm
· Boot Space: 209 liters (with all seats up)
· Seating Capacity: 7 seats (with 3 rows of seats)
Performance
· The Ertiga provides a smooth, comfortable driving experience, perfect for city and highway commutes.
· Fuel efficiency is one of its strongest points, especially in the petrol variant, thanks to the mild-hybrid technology.
· Its engine is not as powerful as the Bolero's, but it’s more than capable for city driving and family trips.
3. Price Comparison: Which One Fits Your Budget?
The pricing of both vehicles differs due to their engine types, features, and target customer base.
· Mahindra Bolero:
o Price Range: Rs 9.53 lakh – Rs 10.48 lakh (Ex-showroom)
o Variants: B4, B6, B6 (O)
· Suzuki Ertiga:
o Price Range: Rs 8.64 lakh – Rs 11.55 lakh (Ex-showroom)
o Variants: LXI, VXI, ZXI, ZXI+ (petrol and cng variants available)
While the Ertiga starts off at a slightly lower price point, it can go up to Rs 11.5 lakh for the top-end variants, especially with the hybrid engine and extra features. The Bolero, though, offers a more affordable entry-level pricing but may cost more depending on the trim and features.
4. Safety Features: Which One Offers Better Protection?
Safety is a crucial consideration when choosing a family vehicle. Let’s see how the Mahindra Bolero and Suzuki Ertiga fare in terms of safety features:
Mahindra Bolero Safety Features
· Dual Front Airbags: Standard across most variants.
· ABS with EBD: Standard braking system with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution.
· Reverse Parking Sensors: Available in higher trims.
· Child Safety Locks: Included for rear doors.
· High Ground Clearance: Makes it safe to tackle rough terrains without the risk of underbody scraping.
Suzuki Ertiga Safety Features
· Dual Front Airbags: Standard across variants.
· ABS with EBD & Brake Assist: Standard in all variants.
· Rear Parking Sensors & Camera: Available in higher trims for better parking assistance.
· ESP (Electronic Stability Program): Available in top-end variants for better handling and safety.
· Hill Hold Assist: Available in the automatic variant for easier handling on inclines.
In terms of safety features, the Ertiga has a more comprehensive set of tools, especially with features like ESP, hill-hold assist, and reverse camera available in higher trims. The Bolero focuses more on basic safety features that cater to its rugged off-roading purpose.
5. Comfort and Features: Which One Will Keep You Comfortable?
· Mahindra Bolero:
o Known for its sturdy design and ruggedness but offers basic interiors.
o The cabin is functional with manual AC, a basic music system, and cloth upholstery.
o Offers a third-row seat, but it’s quite cramped for adults on long journeys.
· Suzuki Ertiga:
o Spacious and comfortable interiors, offering more luxury features than the Bolero.
o Comes with automatic climate control, touchscreen infotainment system, Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and premium upholstery.
o The third-row seats are better suited for adults compared to the Bolero, with more legroom and headspace.
The Ertiga offers a more premium experience with better technology, more comfortable seats, and modern amenities, making it ideal for family road trips and city drives.
6. Which 7-Seater is Right for You?
· Go for the mahindra Bolero if:
o You need a rugged, off-road capable vehicle.
o You live in rural areas or frequently drive on rough terrains.
o You need a 7-seater with strong towing capabilities for heavy-duty use.
o Budget-friendly is a key concern, and you prefer a more basic, utilitarian vehicle.
· Go for the Suzuki Ertiga if:
o You need a family-friendly 7-seater with a focus on comfort and luxury features.
o You want a fuel-efficient vehicle for long highway commutes and urban driving.
o You prefer modern tech features, better safety options, and a more refined driving experience.
o You’re looking for a value-for-money MPV that offers a balance between comfort, style, and practicality.
Final Verdict
Both the Mahindra Bolero and the Suzuki Ertiga have their strengths. If you’re looking for off-road ruggedness and a no-frills vehicle, the Bolero is your go-to choice. However, if your priority is comfort, safety, modern tech, and fuel efficiency for everyday family use, the Ertiga stands out as the better option.
Ultimately, the decision depends on your driving needs and the kind of experience you're looking for in a 7-seater.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
.jpg)
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel