Throughout its two-decade run, the Mahindra Scorpio has earned loyalists thanks to its various attributes. On these grounds, the carmaker has recently revised the old-generation Scorpio (now called Scorpio Classic) that is sold alongside the all-new Scorpio N. Interestingly, the entry-level prices of both SUVs are the same. So now the question arises which of these should you buy?
While we’ve already compared the top-spec S11 variant of the Scorpio Classic with the Z6 trim of the Scorpio N, and now we bring the base variants of both SUVs together to find out the answer.
Price Comparison
| Scorpio Classic S | Mahindra Scorpio N Z2* |
| Rs 11.99 lakh (diesel-MT) | Rs 11.99 lakh (petrol-MT), Rs 12.49 lakh (diesel-MT) |
While the Scorpio Classic comes only in diesel-manual rear-wheel-drive guise, the Scorpio N gets both petrol and diesel engine options. However, there is a price difference of Rs 50,000 between the diesel versions of both the SUVs.
*Note: These prices were valid only for 25,000 units of the Scorpio N, which have already been sold out. All future orders will be provided at the prices prevalent at the delivery time, which may be higher than the prices specified above.
Dimensions
| Scorpio Classic | Scorpio N | |
| Length | 4456mm | 4662mm |
| Width | 1820mm | 1917mm |
| Height | 1995mm | 1857mm |
| Wheelbase | 2680mm | 2750mm |
| Seating Option | 7 / 9-seater (with side-facing seats in the last row) | 7-seater with front-facing seats in the last row |
- Except for the height, the Scorpio N is bigger than the Scorpio Classic in every area, resulting in better cabin space.
- The base-spec Z2 variant of the Scorpio N only comes in a 7-seater avatar with front-facing seats in the last row. On the other hand, the Classic S can be had with either a 7-seater or a 9-seater configuration, and this can be the determining factor in some deals.
Engine Specifications and Driveability
| Scorpio Classic S | Scorpio N Z2 | ||
| Engine | 2.2L, 4-cylinder, Turbo-Diesel | 2L, 4-cylinder, Turbo-Petrol | 2.2L, 4-cylinder, Turbo-Diesel |
| Max Power | 130PS | 200PS | 132PS |
| Max Torque | 300Nm | 370Nm | 300Nm |
| Transmissions | 6-speed MT | 6-speed MT | 6-speed MT |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
- The Scorpio Classic shares its diesel powertrain with the Scorpio N, albeit in a slightly lower state of tune. And thanks to its aluminium construction, this second-generation mHAWK engine is around 55kg lighter than the earlier cast-iron block, which also makes a big difference in NVH levels. It feels very refined & smooth and quite responsive even from the start. It delivers performance in a very linear way that will surely impress you. However, if you’re looking for more sophistication and outright performance, you should go with the mStallion petrol version of Scorpio N that impresses right from the off, and you’ll love pushing it hard. However, if fuel efficiency is your preference, the oil burner should be your ideal pick.
- In terms of ride & handling, both iterations of the Mahindra Scorpio tackle bad roads with a lot of ease. Body movement is also well-controlled, but due to the narrow wheel tracks of the Scorpio Classic, it still feels a bit uncomfortable around the corners, and passengers may feel side-to-side rocking movement. However, Scorpio N feels more comfortable in this department as well. It also remains planted even at high speeds.
Features
| Common | Halogen headlamps Steel wheelsEngine start/stop functionManual AC with heaterDedicated AC vents in 2nd row Tilt adjustment for the steeringPower windows Dual front airbags, ABS, rear parking sensors, seat belt reminder, high-speed alert, and collapsable steering. |
| Additional Features In Scorpio Classic S | Faux bonnet scoopDual-tone cabin |
| Additional Features In Scorpio N Z2 | Frequency-Dependent Damping (FDD) with MTV-C techWATT’s link rear suspensionLED turn indicators on ORVMs Skid platesDual-barrel headlampsTouchscreen infotainment system Audio controls on steering wheelsOne-touch tumble seat in 2nd row3rd-row fold & tumble seatISOFIX child seat anchors |
Verdict
Indeed, the Mahindra Scorpio N exceeds the Scorpio Classic in almost every aspect, and it is our recommendation. The only catch is that you might face a bothersome waiting period before getting your hands on it.
