Spied - IAB reader snaps the Mahindra Scorpio facelift on test

The Mahindra Scorpio facelift has been testing since last year. The refreshed version of the highly successful SUV is expected to emerge in late 2014 or early 2015. The test mule was photographed again last week by another IAB reader.

The external changes are concentrated at the front fascia of the car as evident from the thick disguise. The headlamps, grille, bumper and the bonnet scoop are revamped while the SUV remains instantly recognizable when viewed from a side angle. The new rear fascia gets LED taillights, a subtly revised tailgate and bumper.

Inside, the dashboard has been significantly reworked. The instrument console is new while the steering is borrowed from the XUV500.

Mechanically, the updated Scorpio is expected to be largely unchanged. The 2.2-litre mHawk diesel engine which puts out 116.2 bhp and 290 Nm of torque is matched to 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission options. The entry level EX variant of the current car is powered by a 2.5-litre m2DiCR diesel engine that puts out 75 bhp and it remains to be seen whether these motors will be tweaked on the facelift for better fuel efficiency.

Competitors: Renault Duster, Tata Safari Storme, Nissan Terrano

Expected Price: INR 8.5 to 13 lakhs, ex-showroom