Mahindra might have just revealed the new Scorpio-N ladder-frame SUV with modern design and tech, but it didn’t forget about its predecessor – the good-old Scorpio. The Indian brand will keep offering the latter in the form of the Scorpio Classic, featuring a number of exterior and interior updates alongside a new diesel engine.
The Mahindra Scorpio was introduced back in 2002, with subsequent facelifts in 2006, 2009, and 2014. The 2022 update which goes under the name Scorpio Classic is celebrating the 20-year milestone.
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Styling changes are focused on the revised grille with Mahindra’s new emblem and vertical chrome strips replacing the previous Jeep-style design. The front bumper is also redesigned, with integrated DRLs and a larger aluminum-style skidplate. The 17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels retain their five-spoke design but look slightly more modern. Interestingly, the taillights which received new LED graphics go back to the vertical shape of one of the pre-facelifted Scorpio models, expanding all the way up to the roof (the latest facelift featured plastic add-ons in this area).
Inside, the highlight is a new 9-inch infotainment touchscreen bringing smartphone connectivity into the mix. Mahindra opted for a beige/black color combination for the cabin of the car in the photos, with quilted upholstery on the seats and wood accents on the center console. Despite the welcome updates, we must say that the design can’t hide its age.
The most important upgrade compared to the old Scorpio is the new 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine, which produces 130 hp (37 hp / 132 PS) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. Those figures might not be as impressive as the 173 hp (129 kW / 175 PS) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of the Scorpio-N, but they represent an improvement over the regular Scorpio. Mahindra says that the new engine is 55 kg (121 pounds) lighter and 14 percent more efficient than the old unit. Power is sent to all four wheels through a new six-speed manual gearbox.
Besides sticking a new engine under the bonnet, Mahindra has also improved the suspension setup and the steering system. Note that the Scorpio Classic retains the 20-year-old ladder-frame architecture of the Scorpio so don’t expect unibody levels of handling and control coming with its proven off-road prowess.
Mahindra will announce pricing for the Scorpio Classic on August 20. The SUV is expected to be priced lower than the more modern-looking Scorpio-N, positioning itself as a more affordable alternative in the Mahindra range.
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