Mahindra Scorpio N: For the longest time, the Mahindra Scorpio dominated Indian streets as a tough, no-nonsense SUV that didn’t give a fig about the frills, instead focusing on its presence, power and performance.
Only, with the Scorpio N, Mahindra has taken that heritage and spun it around for modern times.
Consider it as the base Scorpio that hit the gym, got acquainted, and sported some tailored suit, without losing it’s beefy appeal.
The Scorpio N is no more just a ‘rural king’ or the preferred choice of a government fleet. It’s now polished enough for the city, but wild enough for the hills. It’s what sets it apart from a throng of insipid, urban crossovers.
Bold Styling, Still a Scorpio at Heart
There’s the Scorpio N and you’ll immediately get to know that Mahindra hasn’t taken things lightly. The upright bearing, broad shoulders and the distinctive vertical bars on the grille practically scream SUV.
But the design is less blocky this time — and more refined, with LED lighting, chrome accents, and flush-fitting panels. It still looks tough, but there’s nuance in the detailing.
The _Twin Peaks comma Mahindra logo takes pride of place upfront, with hostile headlamps and a tall hood, giving it a strong presence.
Whether parked in front of a mall or taking on a rock-strewn trail, it commands attention without screaming out for it.
Cabin: Just As Comfortable As It Is Capable
Step inside and it’s a different story, the exterior of the Scorpio N lures you in. The utilitarian plastics and rudimentary switchgear have been removed.
In their stead, you’ll find a two-tone dashboard with soft-touch materials, leatherette upholstery, and a big 8-inch touchscreen that comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
The front seats are soft, the middle row is roomy (particularly in the 6-seat captain-seat version) and the third row is tolerable on short trips.
There’s also a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging and connected car tech – stuff that you’d never associate with the old Scorpio.
Performance: Get You the Power
You have two options when it comes to the engine; a 2.0-litre turbo petrol and a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel, both mates to 6-speed manual and automatic gearboxes.
It is the more favoured diesel for a reason (it churns out upto 175 bhp and 400 Nm of torque and yes – it pulls like a train).
The best part? There’s an available 4X4 system (with shift-on-the-fly capability), with terrain modes and mechanical locking differentials.
So whether you’re slogging through a rock-strewn trail or flying down a highway, the Scorpio N feels in its element.
It’s not razor-sharp when rounding corners, but it’s surprisingly composed for something so big and heavy.
The ride is firm, yet not uncomfortable, while the all-new ladder-frame chassis keeps the car feeling solid and planted.
Safety and Features
Mahindra didn’t cheap out on safety. In Global NCAP crash tests, the Scorpio N achieved a 5 star rating, making it one of the safest SUVs in its category.
It even comes with 6 airbags, ESC, hill-hold and hill-descent control, ISOFIX mounts and more!
Throw in a 12-speaker Sony 3D sound system and front/rear cameras, and you can see that Mahindra was serious this time.
Pros
Butch, SUV design with upmarket bits
Optional 4 x 4 and powerful diesel engine
Loaded cabin with modern tech
Safety rating and durability at the highest level
Cushy on road and plush off-road
Cons
Third row is tight for adults
Little bit of body roll in tight corners
No petrol-4X4 combo
Wait times are long in some cities
Mahindra Scorpio N: Final Verdict
The Mahindra Scorpio N Is not just a facelift — it’s actually an evolution. It’s one of the few that bridges the divide between rugged off-roader and civilized family SUV.
The Scorpio N is the right answer for all except those looking to endure bad roads without sacrificing comfort, tech and style.
Yes, it’s not always the best — but for the cheaper price and what it can do, it’s a beast that can be tamed. And honestly? That is precisely what Indian buyers had been waiting for.