I purchased one of the first Bolero GLX 2WD in Bangalore in January 2001. I had previously owned a Tata Sierra whose engine had died after 70, 000 kms (!). Anyway, that is a different story...here is my current view of my Bolero.
I have driven my Black Bolero for about 60, 000 kms in the last 2 1/2 years. In this time, I have driven it through the length and breadth of Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra. It has performed reliably so far and runs wonderfully smooth even today. The paint is still in great condition (it is cleaned 3-4 times per week) and there has not been much deterioration in performance. A small rattling sound has crept in on the back door, but other than that it is quite smooth.
Of course, the Bolero never pretended to be a car for the sophisticated. It delivers what it promises. I can safely vouch for its toughness and its super torque because I have taken it on roads where other cars will not tread. It has been through sand, through forest roads and any other kind of nasty surface you can think of. The beauty of its engine comes through in hilly areas. The high torque is a major boon. I still get 11-12 kms/liter in the city limits and as high as 15 kms on highways. The A/C is always on too. The niggly problems that I have not been able to get rid of despite several attempts are: 1) the door switch that controls interior lighting has been replaced 4-5 times 2) the headlight bulb has been replaced 7-8 times. Those are all small issues for now.
Another incredible fact about my experience with this car has been that all my tyres look to be in tremendous condition. The tread is very good and I expect that they will last another 15-20 thousand kms. easily.
To sign off, if you want a vehicle that makes no pretence about sophistication, looks or comfort, this is a damn good deal for a vehicle in the 5+ lakh range. Believe me, you will enjoy the throb of the 2500 cc engine under your bu.t.