Scorpio scores some safety

Mahindra has launched a new range of its Scorpio Pik-Up and SUV models with subtle styling tweaks and additional safety features.By Gareth Dean

The range now comprises nine models – new 2,2-litre diesels with automatic transmissions in both 4×4 and 4×2 guises for the SUV with the spread being made up of 2,5-litre turbodiesel-engined models with manual transmissions.

Mahindra’s 2,2-litre mHawk diesel engine features common rail injection and a two-stage chain drive system that is said to reduce engine noise level significantly. This unit develops 87 kW at 4 000 r/min and 270 N.m of torque between 1 600 and 2 800 r/min – good enough for a 0-60 km/h time of 5,7 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission features Normal and Winter modes as well as an Overheat Protection function and reverse lock-out.

The five-speed manual models are powered by a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that delivers 74 kW at 3 800 r/min and 258 N.m of torque at 1 800 r/min. Both powerplants can be specified with a Borg Warner 4×4 low range transfer case that allows the driver to select four-wheel drive on the fly.

Mahindra has beefed up the Scorpio’s safety features to include dual airbags and ABS as standard across the range, with the exception of the workhorse Scorpio Pik-Up 2.5 TCI Single Cab these features can be specified as an option. Additional safety features include a collapsible steering column, side intrusion beams and child locks.

The Scorpio range has also undergone a minor facelift with a revised front grille, wrap-around bumpers, a new bonnet scoop, multi-reflector headlights and new foglamps.
The interiors of the Scorpio SUV and Pik-Ups feature a new-look gear lever, steering wheel-mounted cruise (on automatics) and audio controls a host of utility spaces, power steering, electric windows, an electric fuel lid opener, electrically operated rear view mirrors, a defogger, a cellphone holder and mobile charging points for front and middle row seats. The Scorpio SUV range’s new integrated 2-Din audio system enables playback from MP3s, CDs, SD cards and USB devices.

The Mahindra Scorpio range comes with a 3 year/ 100 000 km warranty.

According to Mr. Ashok Thakur, CEO of Mahindra SA. “The new Scorpio is a result of customer and press feedback and is a stylish, affordable family SUV, perfectly suited for the South African lifestyle at a value for money price”.

Prices:

Scorpio SUV 2,2 mHawk CRDe 4×4 6-speed Automatic – R 259,900

Scorpio SUV 2,2 mHawk CRDe 4×2 6-speed Automatic – R 224,900

Scorpio SUV 2,5 NEF TCI 4×4 – R 239,900

Scorpio SUV 2,5 NEF TCI 4×2 – R 199,900

Scorpio Pik-Up 2,5 NEF TCI 4×4 Double Cab – R 239,900

Scorpio Pik-Up 2,5 NEF TCI 4×4 Single Cab – R 199,900

Scorpio Pik-Up 2,5 NEF TCI 4×2 Double Cab – R 199,900

Scorpio Pik-Up 2,5 NEF TCI 4×2 Single Cab – R 157,900 (ABS & airbags optional)