Aussie adventurers, listen up! Mahindra’s brought their rugged good looks and off-road prowess with the 2024 Scorpio-N. This mid-sized SUV boasts a powerful diesel engine, seating for six, and a price tag that won’t break the bank. But is it all thrills and spills, or are there hidden gremlins lurking beneath the bonnet? Let’s take a closer look and see if the Scorpio-N can conquer the hearts (and campsites) of Australian drivers.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Exceptional Value for Money: The Scorpio-N’s price tag of $41,990 drive-away is nothing short of jaw-dropping. For a large six-seater SUV with off-road capabilities, this is a steal.
- Comfortable On-Road Experience: Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Scorpio-N delivers a surprisingly smooth ride.
- Off-Road Capability: Don’t let its urban demeanor fool you. When the pavement ends, the Scorpio-N is ready to tackle dirt trails and rocky terrain.
- Unique 2+2+2 Seating Configuration: Perfect for families with two or three kids, this arrangement ensures everyone gets their own space.
Cons
- Annoying ‘Features’: Some quirks in the Scorpio-N’s design might raise an eyebrow or two.
- Lack of Active Safety Systems: While it’s safe overall, advanced safety features are notably absent.
How Much Does It Cost?
The beauty of the Scorpio-N is its value proposition. It starts at a very competitive $41,990 drive-away for the base Z8 trim, making it a great option for budget-conscious adventurers. The Z8L, offering a bit more legroom in the third row, comes in at $45,990 drive-away.
Features and Benefits
- Safety: The Scorpio-N boasts a 5-star GNCAP safety rating, making it a reassuring choice for families.
- Powertrain: The 7.2L engine churns out 129kW, providing ample power for both city driving and off-road adventures.
- Family-Friendly Interior: The 2+2+2 seating arrangement ensures harmony during road trips, and the cabin feels surprisingly upscale.
- Warranty: That 7-year warranty? It’s a comforting safety net for long-term ownership.
Safety First (Eventually): A Cautious Note
Here’s where things get a bit tricky. While the Scorpio-N comes with essential safety features like ABS, airbags, and stability control, it currently lags behind some competitors when it comes to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). However, Mahindra has acknowledged this and plans to introduce more safety features in a mid-cycle update expected later in 2024.
A Capable Contender in the Aussie Outback?
Running Costs
Fuel efficiency is decent, but where the Scorpio-N truly shines is in its low maintenance costs. Spare parts won’t break the bank, and servicing won’t drain your wallet.
Comparison to Competitors
Let’s stack it up against its rivals:
- Toyota RAV4: Established, but pricier.
- Haval H6: Stylish, but lacks the Scorpio-N’s off-road prowess.
- Mitsubishi Outlander: Solid, but not as budget-friendly.
- Subaru Forester: Reliable, but less adventurous.
- Nissan X-Trail: Competent, but not as family-oriented.
Conclusion
A Worthy Contender with Room for Improvement
So, should you be racing down to your Mahindra dealer and signing on the dotted line? The 2024 Mahindra Scorpio-N is a compelling option for Australian adventurers seeking a capable and affordable off-road companion. Its strong engine, spacious interior, and competitive price tag make it a force to be reckoned with. However, the lack of advanced safety features (at least for now) might give some safety-conscious buyers pause.
Rating: 7.5/10
The Scorpio-N is a good car, not a great one (yet). It punches above its weight in terms of value and capability, but the safety concerns and slightly dated interior hold it back from achieving SUV greatness. If Mahindra delivers on its promise of improved safety features in the upcoming update, the Scorpio-N could become a serious contender in the Aussie market. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities. If you’re a budget-minded adventurer who prioritizes off-road prowess over cutting-edge safety tech, the Scorpio-N is definitely worth a test drive.
