New Mahindra Scorpio to get more equipment

Mahindra intends to make the Scorpio more upmarket. That’s the impression we got on seeing detailed interior photos of an updated Scorpio test mule. Changes to the cabin are comprehensive and include an all-new layered and angular design for the dual-tone dashboard. The pictures, which appear to be of a top-spec variant, show a 7-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation and a rear-view camera display. Automatic climate control will also be part of the features list. Another big change on the updated Scorpio is the position of the power-window switches, which have now moved from the dash to the doors.

Behind the steering wheel (shared with the XUV500), there’s an all-new instrument panel as well, with twin dials in a futuristic-looking housing, and a new multi-info display (including a tyre pressure sensor) sitting prominently between them. AC vents are now square-shaped, both in the front and back, but the rear ones still lack blower control. The test mule also has upmarket-looking dual-tone seat covers.

Apart from new interiors, the Scorpio will get exterior updates as well. Spy pics suggest more angular front styling with a new bumper, grille and headlamps. The side profile is expected to remain the same and the only major changes expected in the rear are LED tail-lamps and a slightly reworked bumper.

The Scorpio facelift is likely to use the same engines, which means the 120bhp, 2.2-litre mHawk and the 75bhp 2.5-litre m2DiCR, both mated to a five-speed manual gearbox.

We expect Mahindra’s evergreen SUV in its latest form to be launched later this year with a slight bump in price.

What to expect in the updated Scorpio

• All-new dual-tone dashboard with dual glove boxes
• 7-inch touchscreen for navigation and reverse camera
• Addition of automatic climate control.
• Steering wheel from XU500 with buttons for cruise control and audio.
• New instrument panel with multi-information display.
• Front power-window switches now on doors.
• Second-row AC vents now square shaped.
• Mildly restyled seats with new upholstery.
• More angular front styling
• New LED tail-lamps. 

Akbar Merchant