2020 Mahindra Scorpio: Latest spyshot shows what the new SUV could look like

A new spyshot of the 2020 Mahindra Scorpio, which has begun testing on Indian roads, gives us a clearer picture on what the new SUV could look like when it hits production sometime later next year. A part-render, put together by a Team-BHP member, shows that the new Scorpio will retain butch lines all over, along with the trademark vertical slatted front grille. The SUV is expected to get longer and wider but shorter in terms of height, giving it a squat stance. It’ll be launched in India sometime next year, and could be first showcased at the 2020 Indian Auto Expo, which will happen in February next year. The new SUV is expected to get a lot pricier than the outgoing model.

The major reason for this will be emission compliance. All cars sold in India will have to comply with Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms from April 2020. These emission norms are quite stringent, and ask for a dramatic reduce in tailpipe emissions, especially by diesel powered cars. This also means that car makers will have to install expensive emission control equipment on diesel engined cars, increasing costs in a big way. The new Scorpio will be powered by a newly developed 2 liter-4 cylinder turbo charged diesel engine that’s expected to make 160 Bhp of peak power. This motor will make the new Scorpio the most powerful body-on-ladder frame equipped SUV that Mahindra has produced.

The new engine is also expected to make the SUV more fuel efficient as lower emissions naturally mean better fuel efficiency thanks to better combustion. The new Scorpio is likely to get more spacious, and Mahindra is expected to focus on making the middle row more comfortable. The SUV will continue to be a seven seater although it remains to be seen if front facing seats for all passengers become the norm in the new SUV. Also, it’s not known if Mahindra will continue producing a cut price variant of the Scorpio for rural, semi-urban and cab markets going forward. If Mahindra continues to produce a cut price Scorpio, expect it to have a detuned version of the 2 liter turbo diesel motor.

The 2 liter diesel engine will get a 6 speed manual gearbox as standard while a torque converter automatic poption is also expected. Mahindra is also likely to offer a turbocharged petrol engine on this SUV, and make sure that the new platform is ready to accept an electric powertrain as well. In terms of safety features, the new Scorpio is likely to have many additions while the feature set could be greatly expanded. Keep an eye on this space as we bring you more details about the 2020 Scorpio.