ಮಹೀಂದ್ರ ಸ್ಕಾರ್ಪಿಯೋ ಎಸ್4 Plus 4WD

Scorpio S4 Plus 4WD ವಿಮರ್ಶೆ

Mahindra and Mahindra, the largest SUV producers of India are always in the race, when it comes to updating their vehicles according to the current market expectations. The launch of its new variant, the Mahindra Scorpio S4 Plus 4WD is one such effort that marks its entry for the safety-first-category of buyers. This utility vehicle splashes over its all new goodies, while retaining its standard features from its older sibling. It comes with a augmented braking mechanism, which consists of anti lock braking system and electronic brake force distribution that was not included in its prior version. While the dual front air bags for both the driver and the co-passenger have been offered, it doesn't just stop there. This trim has been generous before, but now it goes a notch further to give more of its enhanced safety aspects with a seat belt reminder warning and a panic brake indication. Furthermore, there is also an auto door lock, while driving is definitely an add-on to an already brow lifting makeover. The follow-me-home headlamps are surely going to further enhance the safety quotient of this vehicle. The 2-year or 75,000 Kms (whichever comes first) warranty keeps the post sales worries at bay. With this gentle makeovers to the performance, safety and comfort features, this newly added variant holds a definite place in the short list of a potential buyers, when it comes to the final choice.

Exteriors:

While retaining its basic structure, this variant has got a finer variation in its look. To start with its rear end, it has a center high mounted stop lamp with a standard bulb, while the LED tail lamps are an added feature. There is also a wide number plate console, which has a prominent company's insignia in classic black color, perched on it, which can also be termed as a tail gate appliqué too. The reflectors provide additional safety. LED brake lights, courtesy lamp and turn indicators stay as standard features in all the variants. The rear foot step comes with a silver finish. Its frontage looks quite masculine with a broad radiator grille surrounded by a radiant headlight cluster. This includes high intensity lamps along with side turn indicator. Below this, there is a wide airdam that adds to the air intake along with the grille. The large windscreen is equipped with a pair of intermittent wiper and a single washer to clean it, when needed. The cooling of the engine has been improved with the bonnet scoop, to the existing air vent of hydraulic assisted bonnet. Coming to the side profile, the fender bezel stands out in black as well as the front and rear bumper too go with the color. As an entry level variant, it is fitted with a set of tubeless radial tyres wrapped over 15-inch steel rims. The ORVM's, and the side cladding along with the door handles are in black. Its wing mirrors are tweaked giving a classic look. With a total length of 4456mm and a width of 1820mm (excluding the ORVMs), the overall height stands at 1930, with its wheel base at 2680mm.

Interiors:

The cabin has got a refined finish with spacious and comfortable seating arrangement. This Mahindra Scorpio S4 Plus 4WD trim is fitted with vinyl seats with fabric inserts, which makes the feel more rich. Apart from all this, there is also a tilt adjustable power steering wheel, all four power windows with switches on the door trims, a manual central locking system for added security are all standard features in this variant. It also has a proficient air conditioning unit along with a heater and well placed vents to regulate the air inside. The seat belt reminder lamp is placed in instrument cluster to alert the driver. Whereas, the headlamp leveling switch and the remote fuel lid opener are on the dashboard, which further adds to the convenience of the driver, while sitting comfortably in the seat. The bottle and cup holders along with second row can holders form a part of the storage feature inside. The roof lamp is static like its older version, while there are 12V charging points at both the front and second rows are at the comfort of both the driver and passengers.

Engine and Performance :

It retains the good old 2179cc mHawk, 4-cylinder engine, which has a total of 16 valves. It gushes out a maximum power of 120bhp at 4000rpm and a peak torque of 280Nm at 1800 to 2800rpm. As ever, the 5-speed transmission sticks with the engine. This mill is also incorporated with a common rail direct injection based fuel supply system. While, the claimed mileage is of 14 Kmpl approximately, under standard driving conditions. Its variable geometry turbo charger along with intercooler further adds to the performance.

Braking and Handling:

Its front wheels are equipped with caliper type ventilated discs and the rear ones comes with the regular drum brakes. The auto maker has further enhanced its braking system by highlighting it with the anti lock braking system and the electronic brake-force distribution. The suspension comes with a hydraulic double acting and a telescopic shock absorber. The front axle is equipped with double wish bone type of a mechanism along with an independent front coil spring. Whereas, the rear axle comes with a multilink coil spring suspension that also has an anti roll bar. The minimum turning radius of this SUV is about 5.65 meters.

Comfort Features:

For the comfort of the passengers, the company has given this Mahindra Scorpio S4 Plus 4WD variant, a lot of aspects. The list includes a powerful air conditioning unit with well placed vents. Then it has a head lamp levelling switch, remote fuel lid opener, cup and bottle holders along with a second row can holder on its console as well. Then there is the advanced Shift on fly 4WD switch along with a hydraulic power steering, which can be tilt adjusted further adding to the comfort.

Safety Features:

This variant has upgraded several safety aspects making it as a choice for a safe drive. These aspects include auto door lock, a collapsible steering column, side intrusion beams and other such functions are sure to win accolades. Whereas, the digital engine immobiliser makes it squeeze into the safe zone league effortlessly. The driver can rely upon the advanced panic brake indication included in this model, while seat belt reminder lamp is an add on feature, which gives a definite relief to the driver.

Pros:

1. Packed with multiple safety features.

2. With all new features included, this variant stands at par with its competitors.

3. The braking system has been improved with the inclusion of ABS and EBD.

Cons:

1. Need to improve on its comfort aspects.

2. Entertainment section has been completely overlooked.

3. For the style goers, S4+ might be out of the race for retaining the regular look of its older exteriors and interiors.