Exterior Design
A first glance at the 2023 Scorpio promises an SUV that means business. With its commanding stance, it’s unmistakably tailored for the off-road world. Its boxy, yet stylish design might remind one of the Pajero Sport or the Prado, but the Scorpio certainly stands out. Notable features like the metallic Scorpio tail element and the stacked taillamp design add an unmatched fierceness. And with five color options ranging from the deep allure of Forest Green to the shimmering Dazzling Silver, there’s a shade for every adventurer.
Engine & Performance
Under the hood, the Scorpio houses a 2.2-litre 4 cylinder turbo diesel beast. With its 6-speed automatic transmission, it churns out a respectable 129 kW of power and 400 Nm torque. But it’s not just about raw power; with a fuel consumption of 7.2 litres per 100km, it’s efficiently robust.
Drive Experience
Driving the Scorpio is an experience in itself. For an SUV with such rugged looks, it’s remarkably smooth on city roads. But unleash it on off-road terrains, and you’ll witness the Scorpio’s real prowess. Its third-generation body-on-frame platform ensures stability, while the 4XPLOR intelligent terrain management technology ensures dominance over any trail. And with a 2.5-tonne braked towing capacity, it’s both a workhorse and an adventurer.
Interior & Comfort
Inside, the Scorpio does not disappoint. Its design can easily rival its Japanese counterparts. The rich coffee-black leatherette upholstery screams luxury, and the 8-inch infotainment screen, equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, ensures connectivity. But it’s not without its quirks – like a single cup holder in the front and the occasional screen flicker. A surprise for the Aussie market: the Scorpio offers plush captain chairs in the second row, a luxury over function choice that might raise a few eyebrows.
Safety Features
Where the Scorpio truly shines, however, is its safety. With a 5-star rating from the GNCAP, it’s clear that Mahindra hasn’t compromised on this front. Features such as electronic stability control, hill hold and descent control, along with side head protection airbags, underscore its commitment to passenger safety.
Pricing & Conclusion
Considering its features and capabilities, the Scorpio’s price is impressively competitive. Starting at $41,990 drive-away for the entry Z8 and the premium Z8L at $44,990, it offers great value, especially when compared to its segment rivals.
The 2023 Mahindra Scorpio is more than just an SUV; it’s a statement from Mahindra to the world. With its blend of performance, design, safety, and affordability, it’s a worthy contender in the Aussie market. Its 7-year/150,000 km warranty is the cherry on top, making it a genuine value-for-money proposition for off-road enthusiasts and city dwellers alike. It’s clear that Mahindra has crafted the Scorpio with a meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a thrilling drive, every single time.
