Mahindra Scorpio 2009-2014 VLX SE BSIII

Scorpio 2009-2014 VLX SE BSIII Review

The most sorted SUV of the market, Mahindra Scorpio's special edition model has finally been put up for sale in India. As of the features are concerned, all-new special edition model of Scorpio has received few additive features apart from housing the similar features present in its top-of-the-variant model i.e. VLX 2WD variant. This particular SUV has always been a top seller of the segment for past 10 years, and with new models getting launched from different brands had affected the sales of Scorpio. So, the company has launched this special edition model to keep up with Scorpio's glory in the local market. As such company is working to bring the facelift of the same SUV, but that would hit the market may be by 2016. Under its hood, the power source comprise of 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine which belts out maximum power output of 120bhp at 4000rpm and yields torque 290Nm at 1800-2800rpm. Few aesthetic features which are part of this special edition model includes are European leather interiors in tan and beige, chrome alloy wheels, roof mounted DVD player, leather wrapped steering wheel and many more.

Exteriors:

Moving to the exteriors of the SUV, to make it more significant as a special edition model, the company implemented minor changes on its outer body like, a checkered flag spotted just above fog lamps, while the same is observed at the side profile along with chrome finished alloy wheels. M&M didn't go for larger changes as it has firm plans to launch a facelift model of the same SUV in the near future. The rest of the structure is untouched, well definitely it is one of those strongly built SUVs, entitled as the best companion to take anywhere. If looked at its front end, Scorpio has been made with a large size grille, also called as Signature Front Grille brings out a very aggressive appeal , while the road Armour bumper design comes out very sturdy which could very well defend the body. The headlamps are now made available with Blue Vision bulbs, which ensures improved visibility and better night driving experience. Apart from this, headlamps also have a multifocal facility which reflects sun rays and makes the SUV look stunning during night. Looking at the side profile, this newly launched limited edition model features a scuff plate, 16-inch alloy wheels with chrome finish and flag sticker on the front door to make it distinguishable as special edition model.

Interiors:

If talked about interiors of this newly launched Special Edition, then major changes have been made at its front. To up market the Scorpio, company under went adding lot of upscaled features in this new model. First, let's go through the new additions- an integrated roof-mounted DVD player with drop-down 9-inch screen, which serve to the entertainment need of the rear passengers as well, leather wrapped steering wheel as well as gear knob comes covered in leather, and the interiors got more upgraded with European leather upholstery with dual tone effect to build up a sync with rest interior. The front dash receives gloss wood finished central bezel, which adds to the overall appeal of the SUV. The front cabin also comprises of stylish parking brake, exclusive 2-DIN Audio system and AC vents are located just above the audio player in the same wood finished central console . Now, even dual airbags are part of this blazing SUV.

Engine and Performance:

Coming to the performance of the newly added limited edition Scorpio, it has been given the same 2.2-liter mHawk diesel mill as the power source, which has the ability to put out maximum power of 120bhp at 4000rpm and torque of 290Nm at 1800-2800rpm . The reason behind Scorpio's success in the Indian market is the high performance delivered over these years. As the special edition is based on VLX trim, there are two options available- one in which diesel mill comes mated with 5-speed manual transmission and other comes mate with 6-speed automatic gear transmission. To produce better fuel economy company has also implemented a CRDI ( Common Rail Direct Injection) fuel supply system with 4 valves per cylinder. Apart from being a high rated performer, Scorpio offers city mileage of 10.5kmpl, while on highways it delivers an impressive figures of 15.4kmpl. While with the automatic version, it offers city mileage of 9.6kmpl and highway mileage of 13kmpl.

Braking and Handling:

As far as the driving dynamics are concerned, Mahindra could not compromise with this aspect. Scorpio being an off-roader vehicle needs to be made with better handling features. There is a cruise control feature added which allows to retain the speed of the SUV with a push button, so accelerator's role reduces here. The 2WD independent with coil spring and anti-roll bars suspension promises lesser bumpy rides, thus a smooth ride on uneven surfaces is something expected from this SUV. As far as the braking is concerned, front brakes are Disc and Caliper Type, and rear wheels are with drum type brakes, this combination of brakes serves excellent braking system.

Safety Features:

Scorpio has been made available with every possible safety features into it. The special edition model receives an additional feature of dual airbags to up lift the safety aspect of the SUV. The dual airbags give a full safety cover to the front passenger and driver. Apart from this, there is Anti-lock braking system, collapsible steering column and side intrusion beams, crash protection crumple zone and child locks, fire retardant upholstery and smart window on driver's side . One of the most significant features offered in the Scorpio is iIntellipark, which operates through sensors fitted in the rear bumper to assist while reverse parking. To make visibility better, the headlamps consist of Bluevision Bulbs for a better night driving.

Comfort Features:

Moving to the additional comfort features implemented in special edition Scorpio, there is upscaled European upholstery, which makes seats more body hugging and very comfortable. Seats are even fitted with new foam contours, which balances the body pressure quite well, thereby offering smooth ride experience. The other features which are passed on exactly the same from VLX trim includes, tiltable steering, rear AC vents, center armrest on the second row, individual armrest on first row seats and electrically operated ORVMs . The front wipers also come with rain and light sensors in them, which automatically functions depending on the rain and available visibility during rains.

Pros: fuel efficient, strong built

Cons: outdated design, no mechanical changes