Mahindra has finally launched the much-awaited ADAS-equipped Scorpio N, with prices starting at Rs 20.89 lakh for the new Z8T variant.
The homegrown SUV maker has been teasing this update for weeks, and honestly, it’s clear why they were building all that suspense. The addition of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems is a pretty big deal for India’s favorite rugged SUV – it’s like watching your neighborhood tough guy suddenly learn table manners, but in the best possible way.
What’s New With ADAS
The updated Scorpio N now comes loaded with a comprehensive ADAS suite that includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and forward collision warning. Think of it as having that overly cautious friend riding shotgun – except this one never gets tired, doesn’t backseat drive, and actually knows what it’s talking about.
The system helps maintain safe distances from vehicles ahead and gently nudges you back into your lane if you start drifting. Remember those highway moments when you’re lost in thought about weekend plans? Yeah, this tech’s got your back.
The teaser campaign with “Power Always Stays On Course” wasn’t just marketing speak – it actually makes sense when you experience these systems working. They’re designed to prevent or reduce frontal accidents, which frankly, is something we could all use more of on Indian roads.
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Interior and Features
Beyond the safety tech, Mahindra has thrown in a panoramic sunroof too – finally! The current model’s single-pane sunroof always felt a bit stingy for such a large SUV. Now you get that proper open-to-the-sky feeling that makes traffic jams slightly more bearable.
The feature list remains pretty solid with its dual-tone black and brown cabin that still looks premium after all these months. The 8-inch touchscreen works smoothly with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated front seats are a blessing during summer months, and that 12-speaker Sony sound system? It still makes every drive feel like you’ve got front-row concert seats.
The new Z8T variant is clever positioning – it sits between the current Z8 and Z8L trims, giving you Z8L features without the full Z8L price tag. Meanwhile, the top-spec Z8L gets the complete ADAS package along with electronic parking brake and auto-hold function.
Safety Features
The ADAS-equipped variants keep all the existing safety kit including 6 airbags, electronic stability control, front and rear parking sensors, driver drowsiness detection, hill hold and hill descent control, all-wheel disc brakes, TPMS, and ISOFIX child seat anchorages. It’s like they’ve just added another layer of protection to an already well-protected package.
Engine and Performance
Nothing’s changed under the hood, which is probably for the best – why mess with something that works? The Scorpio N continues with its proven engines. The 2.0-litre turbo-petrol puts out 200bhp and feels punchy enough for most situations, while the 2.2-litre diesel comes in two flavors: 130bhp for those who want efficiency, and 172bhp for those who want both efficiency and some serious grunt.
Both engines pair with manual and automatic transmissions, plus there’s that optional 4WD system for diesel variants if you’re planning to venture beyond city limits.
Pricing and Variants
Here’s where it gets interesting – the ADAS-equipped Scorpio N starts at Rs 20.89 lakh (ex-showroom) for the new Z8T variant, while the fully-loaded Z8L with complete ADAS suite sits at Rs 25.15 lakh. That’s actually reasonable pricing for what you’re getting. Advanced safety tech that doesn’t require selling a kidney? The competition should be worried.
The Scorpio N was already offering solid value with its combination of space, features, and that tough-as-nails reputation. With a 5-star Global NCAP rating already under its belt, adding ADAS is like putting the cherry on top of an already impressive sundae. In the increasingly crowded SUV space, moves like this help it stand out from the pack.