Mahindra Scorpio-N 4x4 vs Mahindra XUV700 AWD: Which One To Buy?

The Mahindra Scorpio-N is the latest entrant in the company's stable and bridges the gap between the rough and rugged Mahindra Thar and the more polished Mahindra XUV700. Between the three, the interest seems rising for the Mahindra Scorpio-N with the slew of options it offers along with the extensive features list. However, is it the 4x4 system that interests us since it is the only one in the segment to feature a proper four-wheel-drive powertrain. However, its elder sibling also has off-road prowess via its AWD system. But, which one is the ultimate off-roader? Well, that's what we want to discuss today and help you make an easy pick between the Mahindra Scorpio-N 4x4 and Mahindra XUV700 AWD.

Platform

Despite being a high-riding ladder frame SUV, the Mahindra Scorpio-N is almost at par in terms of dynamics with the Mahindra XUV700. The rolls are controlled, the ride is comfortable, and the highway stability is much superior to the older Scorpio.

The rolls are controlled, the ride is comfortable, and the highway stability is much superior to the older Scorpio.

On the contrary, the Mahindra XUV700's monocoque frame translates to a stiff ride for the second and third-row passengers, which isn't a dealbreaker, but the bumps are adequately evident, making for an uncomfortable ride over longer journeys.

The Mahindra XUV700 is the most advanced and balanced SUV in the lot.

Dimensions

In terms of dimensions, both the Scorpio-N and the XUV700 have their pros and cons. Despite the XUV700 is the flagship model from Mahindra, it is the Scorpio-N that is wider and taller than its elder sibling. But the Mahindra XUV700 is the longer one here while sitting on the same wheelbase as the Scorpio-N.

Despite the XUV700 is the flagship model from Mahindra, it is the Scorpio-N that is wider and taller than its elder sibling.
Photo Credit: Prashant Chaudhary

The Mahindra XUV700 is the longer one here while sitting on the same wheelbase as the Scorpio-N.

Delivery Time

The Mahindra XUV700 has a long waiting period, with the earliest possibility of receiving the car being 2023. Yes, you read it right. The company is facing huge backlogs with the orders for its flagship model coupled with the strained supply chain of essential components, particularly for its ADAS offering. The Mahindra Scorpio-N on the other hand has a shorter waiting period and can be easily available in 3-4 months, depending on the variant.

Switchable low and high ratios, electronic and mechanical differentials, and different terrain modes mean the Scorpio-N is equipped to be as adventurous as you want it to be.

Features

Despite being an affordable offering compared to the Mahindra XUV700, the Scorpio-N has loads of features that have trickled down. So you get the electrically adjustable driver's seats, 12 speaker 3D Sony sound system, a sunroof, wireless charging as well as Android Auto & Apple CarPlay.

Off-Road Capability

While the Mahindra XUV700 is only available with an All-Wheel-Drive system, which is great for slippery roads, muds, or slush, and will comfortably boat you to your farmhouse. The Mahindra Scorpio-N on the other hand comes with a proper 4x4 drivetrain. Switchable low and high ratios, electronic and mechanical differentials, and different terrain modes mean it is equipped to be as adventurous as you want it to be. However, the Mahindra XUV700 is primarily meant to be for city and highway driving while the Scorpio-N can do the occasional dip in the dirt and wouldn't shy away from getting its wheels dirty. Nevertheless, all this depends on how you want to use the car.

Mahindra XUV700 is offered with diesel engine options, but the AWD on the XUV700 is paired to only an automatic gearbox.

Prices

Lastly, we must state the obvious. The Mahindra Scorpio-N 4WD comes in 5 trims while the XUV700 AWD is available in only 2 trims. Both are offered with diesel engine options, but the AWD on the XUV700 is paired to only an automatic gearbox while the Scorpio-N offers its 4WD powertrain in both manual and automatic versions. 

Mahindra XUV700 AWD Prices (ex-showroom, India)

Mahindra Scorpio-N 4WD Prices (ex-showroom, India)

The Scorpio-N also scores more because its 4WD system is available with a lower Z4 trim as well as its top-spec version giving the buyer to choose an affordable variant, which is not the case with the XUV700.