BS6 Mahindra Scorpio was expected to be in attendance at the Auto Expo 2020
But it appears that the SUV specialist is not quite done testing it yet. A pair of test mules (as evident from the red license plates) of the existing Scorpio has been spotted on trial, suggesting that the BS6 version is on its way. Images are credit to automotive enthusiast Athavan.
This also indicates we may have to wait for the launch of next generation Mahindra Scorpio longer than we estimated. While the next generation model is reported to receive a new 2.0-liter diesel engine, the BS6 version of the existing model is likely to retain the current 2.2-liter mHawk diesel unit with emission related upgrades.
There are no visible changes to the Mahindra Scorpio BS6 which is understandable, considering that the existing model only have to keep things moving until its replacement is ready around May 2021 as hinted but Dr. Pawan Goenka, MD, Mahindra. For reference, the BS4-spec 2.2-liter engine on-board the Scorpio is available in two states of tune. The mid-variant receives a version that is good for 120 hp and 280 Nm of torque while the top-end variant boasts 140 hp and 320 Nm of torque. The former makes do with a 5-speed manual transmission while the latter adopts a new 6-speed MT.
Moving forward, it is possible that the Scorpio 2.2-liter BS6 will be available only in one state of tune. Is it also likely that the entry-level variant’s 75 hp 2.5-liter diesel engine will be retired but we will know for sure when the updated Scorpio hits the market sometime later this month.
Despite being at the very end of its life cycle, the current gen Mahindra Scorpio has been doing pretty well in terms of sales. The ageing ladder frame SUV has managed to hold its ground against modern crossovers. The arrival of next generation model would only improve things.
The next generation Mahindra Scorpio, going by the camouflaged pre-production prototypes, will adopt a fresh styling which will be in line with the automaker’s new design language. The new SUV will depart slightly from the instantly recognizable silhouette and grow in size. The interior is also expected to be completely new.
The 2021 Mahindra Scorpio will be underpinned by a sturdier ladder-frame chassis which is expected to have significantly improved crash performance. The equipment level would be improved as well in a bid to catch up with the competition. Launch was earlier expected to take place later this year. But seems to have been delayed due to unknown reason. It is not clear if the delay is due to the Scorpio test mule catching fire while on test.
Given that the Scorpio’s primary rival, the Tata Safari Storme, has hung up its boots, the new gen model has to lock horns with crossovers like the new Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos in a similar price range.