Mahindra Scorpio N Review: The Big Daddy of SUVs

The Mahindra Scorpio N is not just an upgrade; it’s a complete transformation of the legendary Scorpio brand. It retains the rugged DNA but adds layers of sophistication, safety, and technology. It’s what Mahindra calls the “Big Daddy of SUVs,” and frankly, it lives up to the name.

📊 Key Specifications

🏔️ The Drive & Capability

Engine Performance

The 2.2L mHawk Diesel is the star here. It’s incredibly refined for a diesel and offers effortless torque. The sheer pulling power makes highway cruising and overtaking a breeze. The 2.0L Turbo Petrol is a monster with 203 PS. It’s eager and fast, making this distinctively heavy SUV feel surprisingly agile, though fuel efficiency will be in single digits.

Ride & Handling

Mahindra has worked wonders with the suspension. Unlike the bouncy ride of the old Scorpio, the ‘N’ feels planted. It smothers bad roads with authority. The steering is light at low speeds (great for city) and weighs up nicely on highways.

Off-Roading

With the 4XPLOR system, the Scorpio N takes off-roading seriously. It has dedicated modes (Mud, Sand, Snow) and a mechanical locking differential (MLD), making it capable of conquering varied terrains.

🛋️ Interior & Features

• Commanding View: You sit high, looking down on hatchback owners. The visibility is excellent.
• Premium Feel: Soft-touch materials, a coffee-black leatherette upholstery, and a sunroof gives it a premium vibe.
• Tech: It gets an 8-inch Sony infotainment system with 12 speakers (immersive sound), Alexa built-in, and wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.

⛽ Real World Mileage

Let’s be real—you don’t buy a Scorpio N for mileage. But it helps to know what to expect.

• Diesel Manual: Expect 12-14 kmpl in mixed conditions. It can touch 16 kmpl on highways if driven sedately.
• Diesel Automatic: Drops to 10-12 kmpl in the city, but decent on highways.
• Petrol Automatic: This is the guzzler. Expect 7-9 kmpl in the city. If you have a heavy foot, single digits are guaranteed.

🧐 Variants Explained

Mahindra’s variant nomenclature can be confusing. Here is the cheat sheet:

• Z2 (Base): Good entry point if you just want the Scorpio badge and essentials. Lacks the “wow” features.
• Z4: Adds the automatic transmission option and 4x4 option. The value pick for off-roaders on a budget.
• Z6: The sensible choice. Adds the sunroof, improved infotainment screen, and drive modes. Available widely.
• Z8: Premium features like LED lights, leatherette interiors, and push-button start.
• Z8 L (Luxury): The top-end. Adds the Sony 12-speaker audio, front camera, and powered seats.

Our Pick: The Z4 Diesel 4x4 for enthusiasts, or the Z8 Petrol Auto for city dwellers who want power.

🛋️ Interior & Features

• Commanding View: You sit high, looking down on hatchback owners. The visibility is excellent.
• Premium Feel: Soft-touch materials, a coffee-black leatherette upholstery, and a sunroof gives it a premium vibe.
• Tech: It gets an 8-inch Sony infotainment system with 12 speakers (immersive sound), Alexa built-in, and wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
• Space Management: While the front two rows are king-sized, the third row is best left for kids. Unlike the XUV 700, the floor is high, leading to a knees-up seating position.
• Boot Space: With all rows up, there is virtually no space (maybe two laptop bags). You will need to fold the third row for luggage.

🏁 Verdict

The Verdict: The Scorpio N is the perfect upgrade for someone who wants a rugged, go-anywhere SUV that doesn’t compromise on comfort or status. It is unrivaled at its price point for the sheer metal and capability you get.