Mahindra Scorpio Classic Review: A Classic Example of Power
Introduction: Decades Later, Still Nothing Else Will Do
For over two decades, the Mahindra Scorpio has been more than just an SUV; it’s an emotion, a symbol of power and unmissable road presence. The new Scorpio Classic carries this legacy forward, retaining the soul of the original while infusing it with modern enhancements. It holds onto its authentic, muscular frame and command seating but now features a refined mHawk engine, updated interiors, and new technology. Positioned as a rugged, value-driven alternative to both modern monocoque SUVs and its more premium sibling, the Scorpio-N, the Scorpio Classic makes a bold statement: true power never gets old. This review explores if this modern-day legend still proves that nothing else will do.
Design: All Mighty, Inside and Out
The Scorpio Classic’s design is an exercise in powerful restraint. It proudly features the brand’s new Twin Peaks logo on a bold front fascia, flanked by aggressive projector headlamps with LED eyebrows. The signature muscular bonnet with a functional hood scoop remains, telegraphing the power that lies beneath. New 43.18 cm Diamond Cut Alloy Wheels and muscular side cladding enhance its formidable stance, while the iconic tower LED tail lamps provide a distinctive rear profile that has been a hallmark for generations.
Inside, the beast reveals its inner beauty. The cabin is refreshed with a new two-tone beige and black theme and modern fabric upholstery. The centrepiece is a large 22.86 cm touchscreen infotainment system that brings modern connectivity with phone mirroring. Practicality and comfort are enhanced with a faux leather-wrapped steering wheel, second-row AC vents, and fully automatic temperature control. The versatile seating, with options for 7 or 9 seats, ensures the Scorpio Classic remains the definitive choice for large families and groups who need a tough, reliable people-mover.
Exterior Design:
Iconic and muscular, featuring a new logo, bonnet scoop, and tower LED tail lamps for a commanding road presence.
Interior Design:
Refreshed two-tone interiors, a large 9-inch screen, and versatile seating for 7 or 9 passengers.
Performance: Power Never Gets Old
The heart of the Scorpio Classic is its legendary powertrain, now refined for the modern era. It is powered by a robust 2.2L mHawk diesel engine that produces a potent 97 kW (130 PS) of power and a formidable 300 Nm of torque. This all-aluminium engine is significantly lighter than its predecessor, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and performance. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a new 6-speed manual transmission with cable shift technology, which offers smoother and more precise gear changes. This combination ensures the Scorpio Classic delivers first-off-the-block performance and retains its thrilling, torque-rich driving experience.
Powertrain:
A powerful 2.2L mHawk engine delivering 97 kW and 300 Nm of torque for effortless performance.
Transmission:
New 6-speed manual with cable shift for smoother, more engaging drives.
Full Specifications Table: Mahindra Scorpio Classic
Engine & Performance
- Engine: mHawk 4 Cylinder, Common Rail Direct Injection
- Cubic Capacity: 2184 cm³
- Max Power: 97 kW @ 3750 r/min
- Max Torque: 300 Nm @ 1600-2800 r/min
- Gearbox: 6-Speed Manual with Cable Shift
Suspension, Brakes & Wheels
- Front Suspension: Double Wish-bone Type, Independent Front Coil Spring
- Rear Suspension: Multi Link Coil Spring with Anti-roll Bar
- Front Brakes: Disc
- Rear Brakes: Drum
- Tyres: 235/65 R17, Radial Tubeless
- Wheels: Steel (Classic S) / Diamond Cut Alloy (Classic S11)
Technology
- Infotainment: 22.86 cm Touch Screen with Phone Screen Mirroring (S11)
- Parking Assist: Intellipark (Rear Sensors)
- Efficiency Tech: Micro Hybrid Technology
- Convenience: Cruise Control, Gear Shift Indicator (S11)
Comfort & Convenience
- Climate Control: Fully Automatic Temperature Control (S11)
- AC Vents: 2nd Row AC Vents
- Seating: Vinyl (S) / Fabric (S11) Upholstery
- Steering: Tilt Adjustable with Faux Leather Cover (S11)
- Power Features: Electric ORVM Adjust, Power Windows with Anti-Pinch (S11)
Variants & Pricing
- Variants: Classic S / Classic S11
- Seating Options: 7-Side Facing, 9-Side Facing, 7-Captain Chair
- Estimated Price: ₹13.59 Lakh – ₹17.35 Lakh (Ex-Showroom)
Comparisons: Scorpio Classic vs Modern Rivals
The Scorpio Classic carves a unique niche. When compared to modern monocoque SUVs like the Hyundai Creta or Kia Seltos, the Classic offers unmatched ruggedness, a commanding seating position, and far greater seating flexibility with its 7 and 9-seater options. While it can’t match their car-like comfort and feature density, it provides superior durability and presence. Against its modern sibling, the Scorpio-N, the Classic is the elemental choice. It appeals to the purist who values the original’s raw character, utilitarian design, and significantly lower price point, whereas the Scorpio-N caters to buyers seeking a more premium, feature-rich, and sophisticated family SUV experience. The Classic isn’t competing on features; it’s competing on character.
Vs. Monocoque SUVs:
Unmatched ruggedness and presence; offers far more space and seating capacity.
Vs. Scorpio-N:
The elemental, value-focused choice for those who love the original’s character.
Pros and Cons: Our Balanced View
Pros:
- Dominating Road Presence: The iconic, muscular design is unmistakable and commands respect.
- Powerful & Torquey Engine: The refined mHawk engine provides robust and reliable performance.
- Rugged and Durable: Built on a tough ladder-frame chassis, it’s designed to withstand abuse.
- Excellent Value Proposition: Offers immense space, presence, and power for its price, especially the base S variant.
Cons:
- Bouncy Ride Quality: The ladder-frame suspension is not as comfortable as modern monocoque rivals.
- Dated Interior Ergonomics: Despite updates, the cabin layout and plastic quality feel a generation behind.
- Basic Safety Kit: While it has essentials like dual airbags and ABS, it lacks the advanced safety features of new-age SUVs.
- Limited to RWD: The Classic is no longer offered with a 4×4 option, limiting its off-road appeal.
Who Is This Car For? Tailored Recommendations
The Mahindra Scorpio Classic is an outstanding choice for:
- The Traditionalist: Buyers who love the authentic, old-school SUV feel and commanding driving position.
- Large Families & Fleet Owners: Those who need a durable, reliable people-mover with 7 or 9 seats that can handle rough roads.
- Rural and Semi-Urban Buyers: Where rugged build quality and a high stance are more valuable than sophisticated features.
- Value-Conscious Power Seekers: Anyone looking for maximum road presence and engine performance for the price.
Final Verdict: The Undisputed King of Substance
The Mahindra Scorpio Classic is a masterclass in evolution, not revolution. It wisely preserves the core attributes—the intimidating presence, the robust engine, the rugged build—that made it a legend, while adding just enough modern polish to keep it relevant. The refreshed interior with its large touchscreen and the smoother transmission make it easier to live with, but it never lets you forget you’re in a tough, body-on-frame SUV. It may not have the sophisticated manners or the long feature list of its modern rivals, but it offers something they can’t: an authentic character forged over two decades. For the buyer who prioritizes power, presence, and practicality over polish, the Scorpio Classic isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a statement. It remains a true and classic example of power.
Overall Rating: 4.2 out of 5.0 (Based on Expert Analysis)
