Mahindra Scorpio N: A Game Changer In The SUV Segment

The Mahindra Scorpio needs no introduction in India. Since its launch, it has achieved an iconic status in the Indian automobile industry. After enjoying two successful decades of dominance in the utility vehicle space, Mahindra has launched the all-new second-generation Scorpio, christened the ‘Scorpio N’.

This modern SUV is built on an advanced body-on-frame platform, gets contemporary styling, a premium feature-loaded cabin, and the latest generation of powerful Mahindra petrol and diesel engines.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The Mahindra Scorpio N sports a butch and attractive exterior design that builds upon the iconic silhouette of the outgoing Scorpio. The front fascia features a sizeable chrome-studded grille with vertical slats, and the new Mahindra twin peaks logo is placed prominently. Flanking the grille are sleek LED projector headlamps with integrated LED DRLs that lend the SUV a modern look. The front bumper gets a skid plate and vertically stacked fog lamps, adding to the rugged appeal.

In profile, the Scorpio N looks bold and muscular with its flared wheel arches and prominent shoulder line. The dual-tone alloy wheels fill up the arches nicely. The SUV gets quarter glass at the rear, which adds to its sporty character. The rear sports LED tail lamps and Scorpio lettering on the tailgate. The bumper gets silver skid plates for a stern look.

Interiors, Seating and Features

Similar to the interior of the premium Mahindra XUV700, the Scorpio N features plusher and feature-loaded dual-tone cabin. The SUV gets premium leatherette upholstery and soft-touch materials on the dashboard. The driver-focused cockpit is dominated by a large 8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The SUV offers a commanding driving position with clear visibility all around. The flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel, aircraft-inspired toggle switches, and premium chrome and piano black inserts on the dashboard add to the upmarket feel. The Scorpio N also scores high on practicality thanks to multiple storage spaces, charging points, bottle holders, and door pockets.

The SUV can comfortably seat 6 or 7 occupants, depending on the variant. There is ample headroom and legroom across all three rows. The seats offer good back and thigh support, but the middle passenger in the second row will find the floor hump intrusive. The easy ingress and egress make accessing the third row relatively convenient.

Engine and Transmission Options

The Mahindra Scorpio N has two engine options: a 2.0-litre mStallion turbocharged petrol motor and a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel mill. Both engines are mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed torque converter automatic gearbox. The petrol unit produces 200 BHP power and 370 Nm torque (400 Nm with AT). The diesel motor generates 175 BHP / 172 BHP power and 400 Nm torque, depending on the variant.

Thanks to the flat torque curves, both engines offer ample performance, whether for cruising calmly or some aggressive driving. The automatic gearshifts are smooth and responsive, adding to the convenience. Mahindra claims a fuel efficiency figure of over 15 km/l, which is quite respectable for an SUV this size.

Safety

The Mahindra Scorpio N promises high levels of safety backed by a solid body-on-frame structure and a host of protective features. Dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors are standard. Higher variants also add side and curtain airbags, an electronic stability program, a panic brake alert, hill hold control, hill descent control, front parking sensors, and ISOFIX child seat anchors.

Variants and Pricing

Mahindra offers the Scorpio N in six trim levels: Z2, Z4, Z6, Z8, Z8S and Z8L. Both manual and automatic options are available with the petrol and diesel powertrains. The pricing is highly aggressive, with the base Z2 petrol MT variant starting at just ₹16.74 lahks and going up to ₹29.91 lahks for the top Z8L diesel AT 4WD (on-road). This makes the feature-packed SUV a compelling value proposition.

Conclusion

The Mahindra Scorpio N checks many right boxes by offering an imposing design, feature-rich interiors, capable petrol/diesel engines, and, most importantly, very aggressive pricing. It’s the perfect recipe to appeal to a wide spectrum of SUV buyers, from families to hardcore off-road enthusiasts. With its arrival, the competition will feel some heat and revisit its pricing strategies.