New Mahindra Scorpio automatic review, test drive

What is it?

The heavily updated Scorpio was launched last year, but was available only with a manual gearbox. Now Mahindra has added an automatic to the Scorpio line-up.

The automatic Scorpio now comes in two versions – a two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, both based on the top-spec S10 trim. The vehicle we've got our hands on is the one that's likely to be the more popular of the two, the rear wheel drive only version.

What's it like to drive?

The new Scorpio automatic gets the same gearbox used in the earlier car. This unit is a six-speed one, manufactured by DSI. Mated to the common 2.2-litre mHawk motor seen on its manual sibling, it churns out the same 118bhp and 28.55kgm. The six-speed unit is said to have been tweaked to improve shift quality.

The updated Scorpio automatic does feel mildly refined, especially during upshifts, when compared to its predecessor. Drive casually in the city, and upshifts are relatively smooth. You do feel the gearbox upshifting, and at times there is a bit of a  lurch or a clunk. But what it also does is cruise smoothly as long as you drive it in a sort of relaxed manner.

The gearbox doesn't like shifting in a hurry, go hard on the throttle and you will notice some reluctance. It likes to take its own time when going down a cog or two and at times this is a bit frustrating. But what you do appreciate on the Scorpio auto is not having to go though the chore of manually engaging and disengaging the clutch and putting an effort into shifting gears, and that makes it much more relaxing to drive.

What really isn't nice however is the flimsy build of the gear selector. The materials used, the manner in which it functions and the overall lack of robustness aren't impressive.

The updated Scorpio of course gets the all-new chassis and suspension system. The all-new front suspension is lighter and sports service-free hubs, whilst the rear axle is now supported by a newly added anti-roll bar.