Five Mahindra Bolero accessories you didn’t know you needed
As one of the last truly old-school bakkies still available new in South Africa, the Mahindra Bolero is meant to work hard for a living, and to keep doing so for a long time. This function-over-form design is rather primitive in today’s world, though, so you may want to add some accessories to make the Bolero look a bit better and become easier to live with.
Available with both single- and double cab body styles, RWD or 4WD, and a choice between two diesel engines, the Bolero isn’t aimed at family- or leisure-vehicle buyers at all – it’s far too basic for that, so the more-contemporary Pik Up covers that market segment instead.
But, should you find yourself in the position where you have to drive one on a regular basis, there are some things you could do to improve the overall experience. Some of these items can be ordered and fitted at the dealership, but most are sourced from the aftermarket.
Related: Shop for new and used Mahindra Bolero bakkies for sale here.
1. Alloy wheels
Not only will a set of larger alloy wheels with wider rubber improve on the Bolero’s appearance, but it will also improve the driving experience. Wider tyres will generate more road grip, thus improving cornering and braking, which will add to your driving safety.
Don’t be too extravagant with your rolling stock upgrade, though – really fancy wheels will look completely out of place on the utilitarian Bolero. Instead, ask your local dealership to view their selection of available wheels, or spot a special offer at your favourite wheel- and tyre retailer.
2. Bin liner
As it comes from the factory, the Bolero’s load bay is largely unprotected – the metal is extra thick, but there’s only a coat of paint to keep it safe against the rigors of hard work and careless loading practices. For this reason, a rubber- or plastic bin liner would be a wise investment: not only will it prevent unsightly scratches or shallow dents, but it will also guard against load bin rust, ensuring a longer working life.
Once again referring to the Bolero’s standard open load bin, you may also want to add a vinyl cover or even a hard luggage cover for added protection. It will reduce moisture and dust intrusion into the load bay, and will also help keep valuable items out of sight. This won’t make much sense for a Bolero that’s frequently loaded to the brim, mind you – it’s a bit of a mission to remove/reattach any cover on a regular basis...
In the Bolero’s centre console, you will find a big plastic blanking plate right at the top - that’s where the radio could be fitted, but isn’t. It’s a normal “single-DIN”-sized slot, so don’t get too hopeful about fancy touchscreen audio installations (not without extensive modifications, at least). There are plenty of aftermarket radios available that fit in this position, however, so shop around for something that at least incorporates USB- and Bluetooth compatibility.
5. Remote central locking and immobiliser
Manual central locking is fitted to some Bolero variants, but even then, you’ll still need to stick the key in a door lock to operate it. Much better to have a fitment centre install a remote-controlled central locking kit, then – unlocking your bakkie from a distance always beats fiddling with a key. Even better, you could ask the fitment centre to incorporate an immobiliser and alarm into the system as well, for added security wherever you leave your Bolero.
