The Mahindra Scorpio-N, a fresh addition to the Indian SUV market, has embarked on a journey to redefine the standards set by its predecessor. For over two decades, the Mahindra Scorpio has dominated the SUV landscape in India, earning its reputation as a robust and no-nonsense vehicle.
In the midst of a crowded SUV market in India, Mahindra recognizes the need for evolution to stay ahead. The introduction of the Scorpio-N comes after extensive testing, presenting itself as an entirely new package. While sharing part of its name with its predecessor, the Scorpio-N aims to carve its unique path, leveraging the success achieved by Mahindra.
2023 Scorpio-N Design
Mahindra’s recipe for success in the SUV competition revolves around four fundamental pillars: a masculine yet stylish design, a robust build, a premium and upmarket cabin, and a feature-loaded package. The Scorpio-N appears to embody these aspects, with Mahindra claiming that its top variants can compete with D-segment SUVs.
2023 Scorpio-N is a departure from the past, featuring a dominating road presence with a slatted grille, chrome accents, and a muscular bonnet. The twin-pod housing for projector LED headlights and C-shaped LED DRL units adds a touch of style, resembling the tail of a scorpion. The side profile, standing on 17 or 18-inch wheels, emphasizes road presence, while the rear, though slightly narrower visually, maintains the Scorpio identity.
Moving to the side, the Scorpio-N, perched on 17 or 18-inch wheels depending on the variant, maintains a clean profile, emphasizing its road presence. Despite a visual narrowing of dominance in the rear profile, the vertically-oriented LED tail light units add a unique flair, reminiscent of designs seen in other models.
2023 Scorpio-N Features
Stepping into the cabin reveals a significant overhaul compared to its predecessor. Influenced by the XUV700, the black and brown color theme, brushed satin additions, and an eight-inch AdrenoX-powered infotainment screen contribute to a modern aesthetic. Despite some hard plastics on the center console, the Scorpio-N provides ample space, comfort, and under-thigh support for passengers.
The center console, housing the gear unit, is well-designed, but the prevalence of hard plastics diminishes the overall premium appeal. An electric sunroof, while a notable addition, could have been more expansive in comparison to offerings from rivals.
2023 Scorpio-N offers Dual-zone climate control AC for the first row cabin and rear AC vents but no AC vents for third-row passenger.
In terms of space and comfort, the 2023 Scorpio-N performs well, offering generous legroom, knee room, and headroom for second-row passengers. The under-thigh support is impressive, enhancing the comfort for long-distance travel. The Scorpio-N comes in both six and seven-seat configurations, with the middle-row dedicated seats enhancing comfort further.
The third-row seats, however, present a different story. Despite the tumble-down function on the second row facilitating entry, the space remains somewhat limited. The bench seats in the third row lack considerable comfort, and the absence of dedicated AC vents is noticeable. Folding the last-row seats doesn’t create a flat bed, potentially causing luggage to shift if the driver is enthusiastic.
2023 Scorpio-N Specs
2023 Scorpio-N offers two engine options and two transmission choices. The M-Stallion turbo petrol engine boasts 200 bhp and 380 Nm of torque, while the 2.2-litre M-Hawk diesel engine varies in output depending on the variant. The Z2 variant produces 130 bhp, while the Z4 and upper variants churn out 172 bhp with 400 Nm of torque
2023Scorpio-N embraces its rugged nature and offers both 4×4 and 4×2 configurations. The 4×4 variant boasts Mahindra’s latest 4XPLOR Intelligent Terrain Management System with four off-road modes: sand, mud, grass, and snow
The standout feature, however, is the automatic gearbox. Crisp and precise, the AT unit impresses with its seamless performance, instilling confidence during overtaking maneuvers.
While pricing for the AT and AWD variants is awaited, the Scorpio-N exudes confidence in its ability to captivate SUV buyers. It goes beyond just butch looks and raw aggression, incorporating finesse and new-age additions. Although not the most spacious, with cutting-edge features concentrated in the top variants, the Scorpio-N stands as a compelling option in comparison to rivals like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Tata Safari. If the success of the Thar and XUV700 is any indication, the Scorpio-N is poised to carve its niche with handsome looks, a premium cabin, and a diverse range of engine and transmission choices.
2023 Scorpio-N Price
2023 Scorpio-N Price has a variety of prices for all petrol and diesel variants. Starting introductory price was of Rs 1199000 but now the Z4 petrol Manual price is Rs 1326400 and top of the line Z8L 4WD Auto is Rs 2453500 excluding all Govt fees.
2023 Scorpio-N Verdict
2023 Mahindra Scorpio-N stands as a promising entrant in the SUV market. It successfully combines the rugged essence of the Scorpio brand with modern design elements, advanced features, and a robust performance package. While it may not be the most spacious in its class, the Scorpio-N aims to carve its niche, drawing on the success of its predecessors and Mahindra’s strategic approach to dominating the SUV space.
Buyers looking for a versatile SUV that not only commands attention on the road but also delivers a powerful and enjoyable driving experience will likely find the Scorpio-N to be an enticing option. With bookings already underway and deliveries set to commence during the festive season, the Scorpio-N is poised to make its mark in the SUV segment, contributing to Mahindra’s continued success in the Indian automotive landscape.