Mahindra is the fastest-growing carmaker in South Africa and things are about to get even better for the Indian carmaker as it launches the Scorpio N there.
Mahindra has launched the Scorpio N in the South African market as we compare it with the recently launched XUV700. Scorpio (in its regular guise) has been a popular product in the Indian and South Africa markets for a long time now. Its sheer ruggedness and incredible capabilities have made it the crowd’s favourite. But Mahindra has developed this Scorpio N version that aims to take things a notch higher in terms of in-cabin features and conveniences. Let us compare it with the luxurious XUV700.
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South African Mahindra Scorpio N vs XUV700 – Specs Comparison
In terms of specs, the new Scorpio N comes powered by a 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine that makes 128.6 kW (172 hp) and 400 Nm of peak power and torque. There is a 6-speed automatic transmission with it. Also, one can choose the optional 4×4 version if you are in need of serious off-roading in addition to the standard RWD version. The 7-seat SUV is offered in three variants – Z4, Z8 and Z8L.
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On the other hand, the XUV700 comes with a sole 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine that comes with 150 kW (200 hp) and 380 Nm of peak power and torque. This engine is mated to an automatic gearbox. It is also available in three variants – AX5, AX7 and AX7L.
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Features Comparison
In terms of features, both SUVs come packed with the latest tech and convenience features. However, the XUV700 is slightly more premium than the Scorpio N. Scorpio N comes with an 8-inch Infotainment System with Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Dual-Zone Climate Control, a 12-speaker Sony-sourced Music System, Dual-Tone Interior, AdrenoX Connected Car Tech, 6 Airbags, TPMS and Drive Modes.
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The XUV700 has a lot of high-end features like a colossal Panoramic Sunroof, Dual 10.25-inch Touchscreen Display and Digital Instrument Cluster, Alexa Virtual Assistance, a 360-Degree Camera, Sony 3D Surround Sound Audio System, Air Purifier, Smart Door Handles with Flush Finish, Wireless Charging, AdrenoX Connected Car Tech and a ton of safety features as a part of ADAS.
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Dimensions Comparison
In terms of dimensions, both these SUVs are pretty competitively stacked. While the XUV700 has a slight edge in terms of the overall length, it is actually the Scorpio N that is wider and taller. But the wheelbase figures of both these SUVs are identical.
| Dimensions Comparison (mm) | Mahindra Scorpio N | Mahindra XUV700 |
| Length | 4662 | 4695 |
| Width | 1917 | 1890 |
| Height | 1857 | 1755 |
| Wheelbase | 2750 | 2750 |
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Price and Verdict
The price of the Scorpio N starts at R465,000 while the XUV700 starts at R474,999. Looking at the price difference, there is hardly anything to choose between the two SUVs. The main difference in these SUVs is the fact that the Scorpio N comes with a diesel mill and a dedicated 4×4 drivetrain while the XUV700 comes with a turbo petrol unit in 2WD configuration. Hence, if you want a premium and urban SUV with a feature-rich cabin and can do without the diesel engine and 4×4 configuration, opting for the XUV700 would make sense. Otherwise, you can’t go wrong with the Scorpio N either.
