The Mahindra Scorpio Classic has recently been launched in India, with prices ranging from Rs 11.99 lakh to Rs 15.49 lakh (ex-showroom). At this price point, the entry-level variant of the upgraded Scorpio intersects with the top-spec N10 (O) variant of its younger sibling, the Mahindra Bolero Neo, which also costs Rs 11.99 lakh (ex-showroom).
So, which of these cars offers the best value for your money? Let’s find the answer through a detailed comparison.
Specifications
| Mahindra Scorpio Classic | Mahindra Bolero Neo | |
| Engine | 2.2-litre mHawk turbo-diesel | 1.5-litre mHawk Diesel |
| Power | 130PS | 100PS |
| Torque | 300Nm | 260Nm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed manual | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel-Drivetrain (RWD) | Rear-Wheel-Drivetrain (RWD) |
| Mechanical Locking Differential (MLD) | – | Available |
- With a bigger displacement engine, the Mahindra Scorpio Classic is 30PS more powerful and 40Nm more torquey than the Bolero Neo.
- Both body-on-frame SUVs get a manual transmission, mated to a rear-wheel-drivetrain (RWD). But the Bolero Neo has an edge with a mechanical locking differential (MLD), which limits wheel slippage and helps the SUV get out of tricky situations by channeling the torque to the wheel with the most amount of traction.
Dimensions
| Scorpio Classic S | Bolero Neo N10 (O) | |
| Length | 4,456mm | 3,995mm |
| Width | 1,820mm | 1,795mm |
| Height | 1,995mm | 1,817mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,680mm | 2,680mm |
| Ground Clearance | 209mm | – |
| Wheel Size | 17-inch | 15-inch |
| Seating Options | 7 / 9 seater (with side facing seats in 3rd row) | 7 Seater (with side facing seats in the 3rd row) |
- Both SUVs have identical wheelbase, but the Scorpio is longer, wider and taller than the Bolero Neo for obvious reasons, which means you will get better cabin space in the Scorpio Classic.
- Mahindra is also offering both SUVs with the same 7-seater configuration, featuring a bench seat for three occupants in the second row and two jump seats in the rear. However, the base-spec Scorpio Classic S variant also comes with a 9-seater configuration.
Features
| Common | Side cladding, wheel-arch cladding, halogen headlamps, tiltable steering, idle engine start/stop system, dual-tone cabin scheme, and power windows. |
| Additional Features In Bolero Neo N10 (O) | Cornering & follow me home function for headlamps, DRLs, fog lamps, dual-tone ORVMs, alloy wheels, rear spoiler, side footstep, height adjustable driver seat, front armrests for driver & co-driver, armrest in 2nd row, premium fabric seats, touchscreen infotainment, 6-speakers, steering mounted audio controls, cruise control, power-adjustable ORVMs, keyless entry, rear wiper & defogger, corner braking control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and mechanical locking differential (MLD). |
| Exclusive In Scorpio Classic S | Faux bonnet scoop, 17-inch larger wheels (steel), LED tail lamps, hydraulic-assisted bonnet, and dedicated AC vents in the middle row. |
Verdict
The Bolero Neo N10 (O) is clearly a step above the Mahindra Scorpio Classic’s S variant in terms of features. However, the Scorpio offers better brand value, a stronger engine, and a more powerful road presence. It also comes with 7 and 9-seater configurations options, whereas the Bolero Neo is restricted to being a 7-seater SUV. But due to the absence of MLD, the Scorpio Classic appears to be more of an urban vehicle, while the Bolero Neo has some greater off-road capability. One should test drive both SUVs in order to judge their performance, capabilities, and comfort level.
