The new Scorpio N has been a welcome upgrade from the outgoing Scorpio. But such is the brand recall of the Scorpio brand that Mahindra still sells the older one badged as the Classic in a couple of trims for those who desire to buy the car. The Scorpio N starts from INR 13.05 lakh and goes all the way upto INR 24.52 lakh, ex-showroom.
Now, Mahindra is all set to unveil a pickup concept at the annual 15 August extravaganza. This is scheduled to take place in South Africa and showcase the carmaker’s future plans.
Pickup is still a lifestyle vehicle in India
Isuzu D-Max V-Cross was one of the earlier vehicles to be offered in the lifestyle segment. The pickup currently sells from INR 22.07 lakh to 27 lakh (ex-showroom). However, despite the popularity, it is still not a vehicle for a single car family.
The V-Cross measures 5,295 mm long, 1,860 mm wide and has a wheelbase of 3,095 mm. This makes it quite a long vehicle making it difficult to use in our congested cities on a daily basis. Further, the boot is open, leading to exposure to the elements. Hence many owners purchase and install accessories like a tonneau cover or another storage system.
The Isuzu is powered by a 1.9-litre diesel engine that develops 160 BHP @ 3,600 rpm and 360 Nm @ 2,000-2,500 rpm. It is paired with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
Mahindra’s pickup based on Scorpio N
Mahindra’s Bolero based campers are popular pickups in India. However they are mostly used in commercial applications. For a while, Mahindra offered the Scorpio getaway but it too did not find many takers.
In overseas markets like South Africa and Australia, pickups are highly popular. Infact the last-gen Scorpio-based pickups (Goa / Pickup) are one of the highest selling models. This means, Mahindra might be looking at launching a newer pickup vehicle.
However, it is not clear if this new pickup would be available in the Indian market. According to the teasers, this concept gets large tyres, side footboards, and even a sunroof. The rear gets vertical tail lamps and the bet is pretty flat.
Mahindra has codenamed it Z121 and it will be based on the new Scorpio N. However, it will feature a longer wheelbase. The Indian carmaker could also offer single and dual cab variants.
Also Read – Mahindra sold 62,429 vehicles in June 2023.