JOHANNESBURG: Mahindra South Africa has launched its new Scorpio model range with 40 new features including a fresh new exterior appearance, new 5-point multi-link suspension in the rear, and revamped interior.

The new-look Mahindra Scorpio reinforces the vehicle’s technology-driven growth as a world-class vehicle. The vehicle’s external and internal features are a marked improvement on the previous model, taking it to the next level in terms of comfort, convenience, space and aesthetics.

The new Scorpio will be positioned as a stylish, affordable family SUV. Offering the best of both worlds, the Mahindra Scorpio is not only a stylish 4x4, but also a practical family vehicle perfectly suited for the South African lifestyle at a value for money price.

Mr. Anand Mahindra, Vice Chairman & Managing Director, M&M, said: 'Scorpio has always been a symbol of the new global Mahindra. The All New Scorpio is the latest product of our love affair with the automobile. In Mahindras, we have never believed that our business is to make cars. Rather, our business is to give shape to dreams and to create legends. Our dream is to become India’s first global cult brand to create a unique niche for ourselves and for Indian cars, all over the world. I have a feeling that the Scorpio is the vehicle that will get us there.'

Dr. Pawan Goenka, president of the Automotive Sector at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. said: 'With the new Scorpio, we are introducing a host of features in terms of passenger comfort, styling and convenience. These speak of Mahindra’s technological maturity and our consistent drive to deliver an enduring automotive experience.'

'It is one more step in the continuous evolution of the Scorpio and Mahindra,' he added.

Development

According to Vijay Nakra, chief executive of Mahindra South Africa, the new-look Scorpio was redeveloped to include 40 new features.

'The original Scorpio is a direct result of the innovative Integrated Design and Manufacturing (IDAM) process, where Mahindra tied-up with global automotive suppliers at an early stage for concurrent design and development. The new Scorpio is a result of customer and press feedback over the last 18 months where we have developed this new and improved product, which is available at the same price as before,' said Nakra.

These partners include Lear USA, Visteon USA, Dana USA, BEHR Germany, Bosch Germany, Borg Warner USA, Fuji Japan and Sylea France. 'In every sense, Mahindra Scorpio offers South African consumers a true internationally manufactured, world-class product.'

There was an intent customer focus from thought to finish. 'Mahindra developed the original Scorpio for a total outlay of only US$120 million for development; investments like dies, body shop and vendor tooling; as well as generic facilities for manufacturing. The investment in the new scorpio was only $8 million,' said Dr. Goenka. 'A comparable project in the developed world would cost many times over. And as a result, the value goes back to the customer.'

Design & Appearance

The new Scorpio has more aggressive styling cues with the familiar macho front grill and large clear lens headlamps now complimented by a sporty new scoop on the bonnet and specially designed front bumper with air dams. The all-new tail lamp runs all the way to the top of the vehicle.

Mahindra Scorpio’s rear spoiler with integrated brake light is a standard feature across all models. The Scorpio’s side profile is now distinguished by newly designed footsteps, which are integrated with the body. Roof rails also add to the vehicle’s overall style statement.

The Scorpio is rugged but the cabin is modern with all the essential comforts and conveniences.

Features

The interior of the Scorpio boasts a world of convenience and comfort, beginning with an enhanced instrument panel and console, and a host of utility spaces.

The revamped dashboard and central console gives a more contemporary and premium feel providing the front occupants added control of the environs inside. The instrument cluster has a more contemporary look with all controls designed with ease of access and operation in mind.

There is also a multitude of storage possibilities available: can/ cup alcoves, multi-utility spaces, a map pocket and a spacious glove box. Other notable comforts include power steering, electric windows, electric fuel lid opener, defogger and cell phone holder and charger points.

These features enhance Scorpio’s appeal, dynamic performance and ride quality to give the customers an effortless ride.

One of the Scorpio’s key features is that it can accommodate eight people in three separate rows, with ease. It also has a sliding middle row facility, which allows the passenger flexible legroom space.

For security purposes, the Scorpio is fitted with an alarm and immobiliser, and offers keyless entry.

The Scorpio boasts expansive dimensions, with a length of 4482 mm, width of 1775 mm and height of 1916mm, offering a roomy interior for all occupants.

Performance & Handling

Mahindra’s Scorpio range boasts two very distinct engines. The first is the 2.6-litre turbo diesel engine with intercooler designed for optimum fuel efficiency and to make driving a real pleasure. The engine was designed in collaboration with global leaders in engine design technology, AVL of Austria. It delivers 81kW at 3 800 rpm and an impressive 255 Nm torque at 1 800 rpm. The vehicle now offers five-point multi-link rear suspension fine-tuned by Lotus Engineering, to provide a very comfortable ride.

The other is a 2-litre 4x2 Petrol model that boasts a 1998cc four-cylinder 16-valve multi-point fuel injected engine from world renowned Renault. It delivers 91kW of power at 5 500 rpm and 180 Nm of torque at 4 000 rpm. This advanced engine includes throttle by wire and an electronic control unit.

The 4x4 variant comes with an electric Borg Warner transfer case, which allows you to switch to 4x4 with the turn of a switch.

Front suspension consists of independent coil springs and additional stability is provided by an anti-roll bar.

The Scorpio utilises a rack and pinion steering mechanism. Power steering is also standard on all the models, and the steering column can be adjusted to fit each driver’s unique driving position. The Scorpio boasts a relatively tight turning circle of 10.8 meters, ensuring additional ease of use.

All the models make use of five-speed syncromesh manual gearboxes. Going off-road with the Scorpio 2.6 TD GLX 4x4 model is made easier by a good 200 mm ground clearance, selectable all-wheel drive and a low-range transfer case. The high compression engine also allows for excellent braking on steep descents.

Price

Scorpio 2.0 Petrol 4x2 @ R166 400
Scorpio 2.6 Turbo Diesel 4x2 @ R180 000
Scorpio 2.6 Turbo Diesel 4x4 @ R215 000

Reliability

The new Scorpio comes with a standard three years/ 100 000 km’s warranty and an optional service plan at either three years/ 60 000 km or three years/ 100 000 km.

About Mahindra & Mahindra South Africa

Mahindra South Africa (Pty) Ltd is part of the Indian auto giant, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. Mahindra South Africa has a national footprint with over 30 dealerships across the country. Mahindra South Africa have also created a powerful network for more effective customer service by collaborating with Berco, a renowned logistics and distribution company, who have a dedicated customer service team to ensure the effective and efficient distribution of all parts in all areas of South Africa. Mahindra vehicles are also covered by a two-year roadside assistance AA membership along with medical backing in the case of emergencies

For more information, visit www.mahindra.co.za

About Mahindra Group

The US $3.2 billion Mahindra Group is the market leader in multi-utility vehicles and tractors in India. With around 60 years of manufacturing experience, the Mahindra Group has built a strong base in technology, engineering, marketing and distribution. The Group employs around 25,000 people and has eight state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in India spread over 500,000 square meters. It also has a significant presence in key sectors of the Indian economy. These include trade and financial services (Mahindra Intertrade, Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services Ltd.), automotive components, information technology & telecom (Tech Mahindra, Bristlecone), and infrastructure development (Mahindra GESCO, Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd., Mahindra World City). The Group is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2005-06. It has dedicated 1% of its PAT for CSR.