Mahindra Scorpio S3 7 Seater

Scorpio S3 7 Seater Review

India's largest SUV maker, Mahindra and Mahindra has officially launched the facelifted version of its highly acclaimed utility vehicle, Scorpio. At the same time, it also has opted for a new variant nomenclature for all the trims in its series. Among those, Mahindra Scorpio S2 7 Seater is the entry level variant, which is powered by the same 2.5-litre m2DiCR diesel engine. It is capable of producing 75bhp along with 200Nm. This facelifted version went through a major cosmetic overhaul in terms of both interiors and exteriors. To start with the exteriors, it gets a newly designed radiator grille, clear lens headlight cluster and modified bumpers. In addition to this, its rear profile gets a redesigned taillight cluster with LED lighting pattern, which gives it a fresh new appeal. Its interiors are now done up with a new dual tone color scheme and is further amplified by silver inserts. The dashboard has been completely modified and is now equipped with an attractive instrument cluster featuring a multifunctional display. This entry level trim is equipped with several important comfort features like a HVAC unit, hydraulic power assisted steering and 12V power socket in the first row. This new generation Scorpio is available with an attractive warranty period for 2-years or 75000 kilometers (whichever comes first).

Exteriors:

This latest version has an attractive new look, as changes have been made to all its facets. It also gets a new ladder-frame chassis, but its structure looks to be the same like its earlier version. Its front facade is fitted with a redesigned radiator grille that has perforated mesh and vertically positioned bars. It is surrounded by a radiant headlight cluster, which is equipped with halogen headlamps and turn indicators. The manufacturer has also revamped the bumper along with its air dam and air ducts, which gives an intimidating look to the front. Apart from this, its bonnet gets a minor tweak including to its scoop, which compliments its overall new look. Its side profile looks entirely similar to its predecessor, but there are some changes made to its fenders and window frames as well. Its wheel arches are now fitted with a set of 15-inch steel wheels that are covered with tubeless radial tyres. Its front fenders are now accompanied by a small air intake with black colored bezel. The rear profile has a refreshing look as its tailgate and windscreen gets a re-treatment. Its boot lid is now decorated with a lot of black inserts and is accompanied by company's badge.

Interiors:

This Mahindra Scorpio S2 7 Seater trim has a spacious internal cabin, which is furnished with comfortable seating arrangement. Its cockpit has two individual seats, second row has bench seat while the third row has side facing seats. All these seats have headrests and have been covered with vinyl seating upholstery. There is an ample leg, shoulder and head room available inside the cabin, owing to its long wheelbase, width and height. The main highlight of the interiors is its elegant dual tone color scheme, which is now complimented by silver inserts . Its dashboard went through a complete overhaul and is now fitted with a sophisticated instrument cluster along with other utility features. It also has a multifunctional screen that displays vehicle speed, gearshift indicator, tachometer, digital clock and several other warning functions. Furthermore, the car maker has borrowed its steering wheel from the popular XUV500 series, which is decorated with a lot of silver inserts along with company's insignia.

Engine and Performance:

This entry level trim is powered by the same 2.5-litre m2DiCR diesel engine that has a displacement capacity of 2523cc. It has 4-cylinders and 8-valves based on a SOHC valve configuration. This engine has common rail direct fuel injection technology and a turbocharger, which allows it to pump out a maximum power of 120bhp at 4000rpm in combination with a commanding torque output of 280Nm between just 1800 to 2800rpm. This power plant is coupled with an advanced five speed manual transmission gearbox, which distributes the torque output to the front wheels. The SUV maker claims that vehicle can deliver a maximum mileage of approximately 14 Kmpl, which is quite good.

Braking and Handling:

This SUV is blessed with a robust disc and drum braking mechanism, wherein its front wheels are fitted with ventilated discs while the rear ones are paired with drum brakes. On the other hand, its front axle is now fitted with an independent double wishbone type of suspension loaded with coil springs. While, its rear axle is fitted with multi-link coil spring suspension featuring an anti-roll bar, which keeps the vehicle well-balanced. The car maker has also integrated a highly responsive power assisted steering that supports a minimum turning radius of just 5.2-meters, which is remarkable.

Comfort Features:

The car maker is offering this Mahindra Scorpio S2 7 Seater trim with quite a few comfort features. Its dashboard is fitted with a proficient heating, ventilation and AC unit along with roof mounted air vents, which keeps the entire ambiance cool. It also has power assisted steering system with tilt adjustment, which further adds to the convenience. Furthermore, it also has power windows with switches located on central console, full vinyl seat upholstery, 12v accessory socket, drink holders, silver garnished foot step and a static roof lamp. This trim also has features like manual central locking system, hydraulic assisted bonnet, remote fuel lid opening and headlamp leveling switch.

Safety Features:

This latest generation Scorpio is bestowed with a ladder-frame chassis, which is built using hydroforming method. It includes high strength impact protection beams and crumple zones, which safeguards the occupants inside the vehicle. This trim also has some important features like LED based tail lamps, dual horn, tubeless radial tyres, powerful headlamps and under-body protection guard. It is also integrated with an advanced engine immobilizer device that protects the vehicle from any unauthorized access.

Pros:

1. External and internal appearance is very attractive.

2. Spacious interiors with comfortable seating arrangement

Cons:

1. Very limited safety features adds to its disadvantage.

2. Low ground clearance can be problematic.