Mahindra Scorpio Classic

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic carries forward its well-known boxy silhouette, but with significant design updates that give it a fresher, more modern look. The most notable change is at the front, where the new grille with vertical slats is paired with Mahindra’s new twin peaks logo finished in chrome. The projector headlamps and updated Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) contribute to a more contemporary appearance​.

The side profile remains mostly the same, with the 17-inch alloy wheels now sporting a new design. The door claddings with "Scorpio" lettering and SUV traits like the side-step and roof rails remain intact. The rear continues with the side-opening door, making it practical for loading and unloading, especially in tighter parking spaces. A new tail lamp design features tower-shaped reflectors, adding to its classic appeal

Under the hood, the Scorpio Classic is powered by a 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine, which is a new-generation unit. This engine produces 128 bhp at 2750 rpm and 300 Nm of torque between 1600 and 2800 rpm​. 

One of the biggest improvements is the availability of a significant portion of this torque from as low as 1000 rpm, ensuring smooth and powerful acceleration, even at lower speeds.

This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, which has been redesigned to offer smoother shifts. While the gearshift can be a bit notchy, the short throws ensure that you don’t spend much time between gears. The engine is also 55 kg lighter than the previous version, which has improved fuel efficiency by approximately 14%

The ride quality of the Scorpio Classic is one of the key improvements over the previous generation. Mahindra has used frequency selective dampers (borrowed from the Scorpio-N) in the suspension setup, which has resulted in a smoother ride, especially over rough terrains. If you’ve driven earlier Scorpios, you’ll notice a significant difference in how the Classic handles bumps and uneven roads​.

In terms of handling, there is a noticeable reduction in body roll, although it hasn’t been eliminated completely. The Scorpio Classic’s high center of gravity and heavy frame still make it prone to some body roll during sharp turns. However, for its size and weight, it handles remarkably well. The steering, however, remains on the heavier side, which might make tight maneuvers in city traffic a bit cumbersome

Inside, the Scorpio Classic offers a fairly comfortable ride, though it remains more utilitarian than luxurious. The cabin has been updated with a beige theme, replacing the darker tones of the earlier models, and the seats come with fabric upholstery. While the seats are well-padded, the overall design of the cabin prioritizes durability over high-end materials​.

The driver’s seat is height adjustable, but space between the seat and the door is minimal, meaning you have to open the door to adjust it properly. In the second row, you can choose between captain seats or a bench seat, depending on the variant.

 The third-row seating is less spacious, especially if you choose the front-facing configuration, as the second row doesn’t slide forward to provide extra room. However, for larger families, the 9-seater version with side-facing seats remains available​

In terms of technology, the Scorpio Classic is fairly basic. The most significant tech update is the addition of a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which provides good clarity but limited functionality compared to more modern systems. Features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are missing, which may be a drawback for tech-savvy users​.

The instrument cluster is a mix of analogue dials and a small MID (Multi-Information Display), which provides basic information. Additional tech features include steering-mounted controls, although the number of charging points is limited, which may disappoint some buyers

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic benefits from micro-hybrid technology and a start-stop feature, both of which help improve fuel efficiency. Mahindra claims a 14% improvement in fuel efficiency, making the new-generation mHawk engine more economical than its predecessor​. While exact mileage figures are not provided, this improvement suggests that the Scorpio Classic will be more fuel-efficient than the older model, making it more suitable for longer trips and rural use.

The Scorpio Classic is undoubtedly a value-for-money SUV, particularly for buyers who prioritize ruggedness, reliability, and off-road capability over high-end features and advanced technology. It is significantly more affordable than the Scorpio-N, with prices starting at ₹11.99 lakh and going up to ₹15.49 lakh​. Given the improvements in engine performance, ride quality, and design, the Scorpio Classic offers a strong proposition for those looking for a practical, no-nonsense SUV.

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic is priced between ₹11.99 lakh and ₹15.49 lakh, depending on the variant​. This pricing positions it well below the Scorpio-N, making it a more affordable option for buyers who still want the traditional Scorpio experience. Mahindra has a strong after-sales network in India, ensuring that parts and services are easily accessible, even in rural areas where the Scorpio is most popular

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic doesn’t face direct competition in terms of its rugged, old-school SUV design. Most of its competitors, such as the Tata Safari and Hyundai Creta, cater to more urban buyers and focus heavily on features and technology. However, for buyers seeking a more traditional SUV with off-road capability, the Scorpio Classic stands in a league of its own​.

The Mahindra Scorpio Classic is a testament to the fact that some designs and engines withstand the test of time. While it lacks the modern tech and features seen in other SUVs, it makes up for that with its rugged design, dependable performance, and updated engine. It remains a great choice for those looking for a powerful SUV that can handle both urban and rural environments without breaking the bank. The Scorpio Classic is perfect for loyalists who appreciate the no-nonsense, tough SUV experience, while the newer Scorpio-N caters to tech-savvy urban buyers.

In conclusion, the Mahindra Scorpio Classic offers great value for money, improved performance, and rugged dependability. For those looking for an affordable, durable, and capable SUV with some modern touches, the Scorpio Classic is hard to beat.