India’s leading small commercial vehicle (SCV) maker, Mahindra & Mahindra, has unveiled the Bolero MaXX Pik‑Up HD 1.9 CNG, priced at ₹11.19 lakh ex-showroom, marking an exciting milestone in the pick‑up truck market. With compelling specs, smart tech, and robust build quality, this truck is engineered to elevate fleet operations across urban and semi‑urban India.
1. Launch & Positioning: Bold Step into CNG Pick‑Up Segment
Launched on June 26, 2025, the Bolero MaXX Pik‑Up HD 1.9 CNG sits at the top of the “HD” lineup, offering a powerful CNG-fuelled option with class-leading payload capacity. At ₹11.19 lakh (ex-showroom), it stakes out an excellent value proposition for commercial fleet buyers seeking cost-effective and reliable transport solutions.
2. Powertrain & Performance: Turbocharged CNG for Real-World Torque
Under the hood lies a 2.5-litre turbocharged CNG engine, tuned to deliver 61 kW (≈82 bhp) and 220 Nm of torque, available between 1,200 and 2,200 rpm. It’s mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox and benefits from power steering for better manoeuvrability even under full load. Unlike rivals with naturally aspirated units, its turbo setup ensures stronger drivability—especially when hauling.
3. Payload, Load‑Bed & Range: Built for Heavy-Duty Ops
The “1.9” in the name signifies the payload capacity of 1.85 tonnes (1,850 kg), the highest offered in its segment. Its 3,050 mm load-bed accommodates bulky cargo with ease. With a 180-litre CNG tank, the pickup claims a range of up to 400 km on a single fill — ideal for long-haul operations with minimal refuelling disruptions.
4. Telematics & Smart Fleet Management
This is Mahindra’s first CNG pickup to come equipped with the iMAXX telematics platform. This connected technology offers real-time tracking, fuel monitoring, engine diagnostics, and trip analysis, helping fleet operators optimise performance and reduce operational costs.
5. Driver Comfort & Practical Features
Despite its commercial focus, the HD 1.9 CNG comes with several driver-centric amenities:
- D+2 seating (driver plus two passengers) with a height-adjustable driver’s seat
- Basic AC and heater for all-season comfort
- Robust leaf spring suspension on both axles and 16‑inch tyres for load stability
- Power steering to ease driving in congested areas or tight lanes.
This combination delivers a balance of rugged utility and usable comfort—a hallmark of Bolero’s urban/semi-urban use case.
6. How It Compares in the Segment
In many respects, the Bolero MaXX Pik‑Up HD CNG is a step up from lower-end variants:
- It surpasses typical CNG SCVs by integrating a turbocharger, not found in rivals with naturally aspirated engines—translating to better torque and responsiveness under load.
- It offers the maximum payload in its category, making it suitable for heavier logistics needs.
- The long driving range on CNG helps fleets reduce downtime and cut fuel costs.
7. Ideal Use‑Cases & Target Buyers
The truck is well suited for:
- Fleet operators and transport agencies running urban and intercity routes
- Construction & goods movement where payload capacity and fuel economy are key
- Multi-purpose local businesses looking for endurance, low running cost, and connected insights
Mahindra has clearly targeted the vehicle toward cost-conscious, reliability-first users—drivers and businesses who prioritize strength, ease of maintenance, and predictable performance over luxurious frills.
8. Challenges & Real‑World Considerations
While very promising, a few considerations remain:
- Availability and waiting periods—historically, new Bolero launches have experienced high wait times. Early buyers should check delivery timelines. (One Reddit comment resonated: “If it has a waiting list of 2 years then launch price is useless.”).
- Basic interiors—Bolero pickups remain utilitarian, with minimal cabin finish, meant to keep costs and complexity low. As Reddit users and automotive discussions highlight, while durability is high, cabin sophistication is minimal.
9. Final Thoughts
Mahindra’s Bolero MaXX Pik‑Up HD 1.9 CNG competes across core dimensions: strong payload, good range, turbo CNG performance, and connected fleet tech—all at a sharply competitive price point. The ₹11.19 lakh ex-showroom tag places it as a compelling workhorse for fleet owners and small transport businesses.