MAHINDRA SCORPIO

FROM INDIA TO THE AUSSIE BUSH, VIA THE 'BURBS

- MATT RAUDONIKIS

IS THE the Scorpio from Indian brand Mahindra a great budget alternative for buyers looking for something different in a capable 4x4? We think so, but let’s delve a bit deeper.

The two-model range currently starts at just 41,990 drive-away for the entrylevel Z8 variant, and extends to 44,990 drive-away for the Z8L.

At 4662mm in length and 1970mm wide, the Scorpio isn’t as large as some in its competitor set, but you don’t notice it when you climb into the front or second row of seats. Both rows offer plenty of space for passengers, with more space in the second row than usual because it only accommodates two people on separate captain’s chairs.

Like most wagons in this size bracket, access to the third row for adults is awkward and the seating position is cramped, so really only suited to children.

Back up front and only the driver’s seat has height adjustment; this is electric on the Z8L model but manual in the Z8. The steering column can’t be adjusted for reach, so finding the ideal position might not be possible for some, but I didn’t have an issue getting comfortable. The seat is very close to the door and this limits the size of the door pockets; as such, they are map pockets with no bottle holders.

The faux leather seats are supportive and comfortable and the vision through the tall windscreen is excellent, even if it’s not as good as the more upright Pik-Up model. Controls are easy to reach and the touchscreen is responsive when using CarPlay functions.

Standard features in both the Scorpio Z8 and Z8L include seating for six on leatherette seats, TPMS, ABS, ESC and traction control, threezone climate control with vents to the second row but not the third, front, side and curtain airbags, but they don’t extend back to the third row. Nor is there AEB or lane-keep assist.