ಮಹೀಂದ್ರ ಸ್ಕಾರ್ಪಿಯೋ 2014-2022 ಎಸ್6 ಪ್ಲಸ್ 8 ಆಸನ

After a long time, Mahindra and Mahindra has updated its most desirable utility vehicle, Scorpio for the SUV enthusiasts. It has undergone a major cosmetic overhaul for its exteriors and insides. At the same time, it also gets minor changes to the features and technical specification. It is available in numerous trim levels among which, Mahindra Scorpio S6 Plus 8 Seater is the mid range trim. It is powered by the same 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine, but is now coupled with an indigenously developed 5-speed manual transmission. It is blessed with several important features like remote central locking, manual air conditioning system and an integrated 2-DIN music system. Its headlight cluster gets a major tweak with rectangular design. The radiator grille is now wider and is decorated with a vertically positioned bars with chrome treatment. The manufacturer has also revised the interiors by changing the design of dashboard, instrument cluster and its center fascia. It is available in five attractive paint options including diamond white, fiery black, mist silver, molten red and regal blue. This facelifted version will be placed in the mid level SUV segment where it will compete with the likes of Renault Duster, Nissan Terrano and Tata Safari Storme.

Exteriors:

This refurbished version of Scorpio has a complete new look as the company has made changes to all its facets. It is built with a new lightweight ladder-frame chassis but the overall body structure look similar to its predecessor. The signature radiator grille is designed with vertically positioned bars and is further decorated with company's logo. The front body colored bumper gets a trendy new design with an air dam along with a pair of reshaped air ducts, which have black colored mesh. The side profile gets slightly pronounced wheel arches that are now fitted with 17-inch steel wheels. The side turn indicators have been repositioned just above the front fender. Apart from this, other aspects like window frames, body colored ORVMs and door handles have been retained. The rear profile gets a rugged new look owing to its restructured tailgate and windscreen. The car maker has fitted grab handles on D pillars, which are placed as a replacement for reflectors in the previous version. On the other hand, its bumper, and spoiler remains to be same. However, a major update has been given to its taillight cluster, which is now powered by LED lighting pattern.

Interiors:

The Mahindra Scorpio S6 Plus 8 Seater trim gets a robust interior design that is done up in dual tone color scheme. Its cockpit has a redesigned dashboard, which is equipped with an AC unit, a large glove box and a music system. Its center fascia remains flat but it houses rectangular air vents along with redesigned control switches. Furthermore, its steering wheel is borrowed from the XUV500, which is decorated with a lot of silver inserts. The car maker has also revised its instrument panel and integrated it with a multi information screen . It displays gearshift position, time, outside temperature display and several other warning functions. The seats have been retained, which have integrated headrests and are covered with premium fabric upholstery. This 8-seater trim has individual seats in cockpit wherein the second and third rows are fitted with bench seat. Apart from these, there are number of utility features fitted inside the cabin like dual front sun visors, cup holders, accessory power sockets, room lamps and reclining function for second row seats.

Engine and Performance:

This refurbished version is equipped with the same 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine that has common rail fuel injection technology. It has 4-cylinders and 16-valves based on a DOHC valve configuration . This 2179cc engine is incorporated with a turbocharger, which allows it to produce a maximum power of 120bhp at 4000rpm that results in a commanding torque output of 290Nm between 1800 to 2800rpm. This engine is now coupled with a new 5MT 320, five-speed manual transmission gearbox that sends the torque output to the front wheels. The car maker claims that the vehicle has the ability to deliver a maximum mileage of approximately 17.5 Kmpl, which is quite good.

Braking and Handling:

Its front wheels are fitted with a set of high performance disc brakes, while the rear ones are paired with solid drum brakes . It is incorporated with anti lock braking system that helps in augmenting the braking mechanism, especially on slippery roads. The car maker has equipped its front axle with an independent double wishbone suspension, which is accompanied by coil spring. While its rear axle is equipped multi-link type of suspension, which is further loaded with coil springs and anti-roll bars. This SUV series is integrated with an advanced power assisted steering system that supports a minimum turning radius of just 5.4-meters, which is remarkably good for an SUV.

Comfort Features:

This Mahindra Scorpio S6 Plus 8 Seater is the mid range variant, which is equipped with several important comfort features. It has a list of features including manually adjustable outside mirrors, power steering system with tilt adjustment, fabric seating upholstery, remote central locking, front intermittent wipers with washer and power windows. In addition to these, it has middle row sliding seat, interior lamp and front center armrest. This trim is also equipped with a highly proficient air conditioning system featuring a heater and rear air vents, which regulates the air temperature inside. The car maker has also incorporated a 2-DIN music system featuring a CD player with MP3 decoder and has connectivity ports for USB and AUX-In devices.

Safety Features:

This facelifted version is built with a new lightweight ladder-frame chassis, which is made using hydroforming method. It also includes side impact beams and crumple zones, which reduces the collision impact and thereby it safeguards the occupants. This trim is also incorporated with a digital engine immobilizer featuring a state-of-art encrypted key recognition system, which provides maximized protection to the vehicle. Apart from this, it has features like digital engine immobilizer, driver airbag, speed alert, auto door lock while driving, seat belt reminder lamp, panic brake indication, anti lock braking system and tubeless radial tyres.

Pros:

1. Refurbished external appearance with improved cosmetics.

2. New ladder-frame chassis contributes towards better performance and handling.

Cons:

1. More comfort features can be added.

2. Alloy wheels and projector headlamps can be offered as standard.