2024 Mahindra Scorpio Z8 & Z8L: Quick Review

Mahindra is an Indian multinational corporation that operates in various sectors including automotive, aerospace, agribusiness, defense, energy, finance, hospitality, real estate, retail,, telecommunications and more.

The company is officially known as Mahindra & Mahindra Limited and is headquartered in Mumbai, India.

They are one of the largest manufacturers of tractors in the world and have a significant presence in the Indian automobile market, producing a wide range of vehicles such as SUVs, trucks, and commercial vehicles.

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2023 Mahindra Scorpio Z8L variant

Their model range in Australia includes the Mahindra Scorpio, XUV700, and S11 Pik-Up.

The Scorpion large SUV has entered one of Australia's most competitive segments. But in a space filled with global giants, can the Scorpio Z8 hold its ground?

Pricing and features

The Scorpio Z8 is the entry-level, in the two model range, and is priced at $41,990 drive-away.

It's a six-seater SUV, with two seats across three rows.

Both the Z8 and Z8L models are 4WD and are powered by the same 129kW/400Nm 2.2-litre diesel engine paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

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2023 Mahindra Scorpio Z8L variant

The Scorpio's base Z8 offers 18-inch alloy wheels, a tan-colored leather interior trim, an 8.0-inch infotainment system, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a six-seat set-up, automatic wipers and projector LED headlights. Inside the cabin, you'll find dual-zone climate control, a reversing camera and rear parking sensors, push-button start, keyless entry, and tire pressure monitoring. So even in its entry variant, the Scorpio feels well-equipped.

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The family SUV is available in five exterior paint colours, including a trendy 'Deep Forest' green.

Choosing to invest an extra $3000 ($44,990 drive-away) into the next level Z8L Scorpio will provide you with several additional features, including a 12-speaker Sony sound system, a front camera, front parking sensors, an larger 7-inch display for the driver, a wireless phone charger, and a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat.

Additionally, it comes equipped with wireless connectivity for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The family SUV is available in five exterior paint colours, including a trendy 'Deep Forest' green.

Safety

The Mahindra Scorpio does not have an ANCAP rating.

Previous Mahindra models in Australia have received between a 2-4 score on their safety assessment.

This is partly due to a significant amount of active safety spec missing from the Scorpio including many we have come to expect as standard.

These include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse autonomous braking which are all omitted.

On the upside, the Scorpio does have anti-lock braking system, rear parking sensors (and front on the Z8L) and front, side and curtain airbags.

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2023 Mahindra Scorpio Z8L variant- 7-inch cluster shown

Key rivals

The large SUV segment is competitive with several strong contenders:

• LDV D90
• Toyota Fortuner
• Isuzu MU-X
• Mitsubishi Fortuner

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The Mahindra Scorpio's standout feature is its attractive initial price point, making it a viable option for budget-conscious buyers. For those with a tight budget, the Scorpio provides a new option for Australian buyers.

But it's important to consider that this cost saving comes as a trade-off, in terms of safety, as essential active safety features are notably absent.

Mahindra's seven year warranty is another compelling selling point, alongside the sharp price.