Mahindra is all set to shake up the SUV segment again, this time by planning a more affordable automatic variant of its hugely successful Scorpio N. Since its launch, the Scorpio N has attracted massive attention for offering bold styling, rugged performance, and modern features—but the price tag of automatic versions has kept many buyers on the fence.
With the SUV market in India booming and buyers increasingly leaning toward automatic transmissions for convenience, Mahindra seems to be preparing a value-driven automatic variant to make the Scorpio N even more accessible.
Let’s dive into what we can expect from this move, including features, expected pricing, variants, engine options, and the potential impact on the competition.
⚙️ Why Mahindra is Making the Scorpio N Automatic More Affordable
The Scorpio N currently comes in both manual and automatic options across petrol and diesel variants. However, the automatic versions start at a significantly higher price—upwards of ₹15.95 lakh (ex-showroom).
By introducing a lower-cost automatic trim, Mahindra wants to:
- Expand its customer base to include budget-conscious buyers
- Tap into the growing demand for affordable automatic SUVs
- Take on rivals like Tata Harrier, Hyundai Creta, and Kia Seltos more aggressively
- Offer more flexibility in urban and semi-urban markets where automatics are rising in popularity
🚘 What Can We Expect from the New Lower-Spec Scorpio N Automatic Variant?
🔧 Engine and Transmission
There’s unlikely to be a change in the engine and transmission setup. Mahindra is expected to retain the same powertrain, which is known for its solid performance:
| Engine | 2.2L mHawk Diesel / 2.0L mStallion Petrol |
|---|---|
| Power | 172 bhp (diesel) / 200 bhp (petrol) |
| Torque | Up to 400 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed torque converter automatic |
This means even the affordable automatic version will deliver the same rugged performance, power delivery, and driveability that buyers love.
📦 Expected Feature List
To bring the price down, Mahindra will likely strip away certain high-end features. Here’s what the variant may retain and lose:
✅ Expected to be Retained:
- Touchscreen infotainment (smaller unit)
- Dual front airbags
- LED DRLs
- Rear AC vents
- Manual climate control
- Electrically adjustable ORVMs
- Rear parking sensors
- Power windows
- Engine start-stop technology
❌ Likely to be Omitted:
- Advanced 4X4 system (may be limited to 2WD)
- Large touchscreen with AdrenoX connected tech
- Alloy wheels (may get steel rims)
- Sunroof
- Cruise control
- Premium sound system
- Terrain modes
- Side and curtain airbags
While this means fewer creature comforts, core performance and safety elements will still be present, offering excellent value for money.
💰 Expected Pricing
The current Scorpio N automatic variants start at ₹15.95 lakh (ex-showroom). With the stripped-down automatic trim, Mahindra may be able to bring the price closer to ₹13.49–₹13.99 lakh, depending on variant and fuel type.
Price Comparison Table:
| Variant Type | Expected Price (Ex-showroom) |
|---|---|
| New Base Auto Diesel | ₹13.49–13.99 lakh |
| Existing Z4 Auto Diesel | ₹15.95 lakh+ |
| Difference | ₹2–2.5 lakh lower |
This pricing will allow Mahindra to attract a wider pool of urban family buyers, first-time SUV customers, and users upgrading from smaller hatchbacks or sedans.
🆚 How It Compares With Rivals
Mahindra’s decision comes at a time when other mid-size and full-size SUVs are also targeting the automatic buyer segment:
| SUV | Starting Auto Variant Price |
|---|---|
| Tata Harrier | ₹16.49 lakh |
| Hyundai Creta | ₹13.38 lakh |
| Kia Seltos | ₹13.69 lakh |
| Scorpio N (expected new auto) | ₹13.49–13.99 lakh |
If Mahindra delivers at this pricing, it could undercut many rivals while offering a much larger, more powerful SUV.
📈 Impact on the Market
This move can potentially increase Scorpio N’s monthly sales volume and strengthen Mahindra’s hold in both urban and rural markets.
Key Impacts:
- More bookings from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities
- Fleet operators or ride-sharing buyers may consider it
- Will pose a serious challenge to Creta, Seltos, Harrier, and even the XUV700
- Could boost Mahindra’s total SUV share in India by 5–8%
📅 Launch Timeline
While there is no official confirmation yet, sources suggest the affordable Scorpio N automatic variant may be launched by August–September 2025, in time for Independence Day and festive season bookings.
This timing would be ideal for Mahindra to capitalize on festive demand, especially from working professionals, small families, and business owners.
🛠️ What Customers Should Know
Before making the buying decision, customers should consider the following:
Pros:
- Same engine performance at a lower price
- Automatic convenience for city driving
- Rugged SUV under ₹14 lakh
- Proven platform and good resale value
Cons:
- Fewer tech features
- No AWD/4×4 in base auto variant
- May lack premium cabin touches
Still, for customers prioritizing power, space, and driving ease, this automatic variant can offer unbeatable value.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Mahindra’s plan to launch a cheaper Scorpio N automatic variant is a smart, customer-focused move. By removing a few features and retaining performance and safety, the company is ready to offer a feature-balanced SUV that doesn’t break the bank.
It aligns perfectly with market trends, where more and more buyers prefer automatic cars for daily use, but are often priced out by high trims.
This new Scorpio N variant could very well become the default choice for those wanting ruggedness, road presence, and comfort — without paying premium prices.
📌 Summary:
- New lower-spec Scorpio N automatic variant expected soon
- Likely to retain core safety and engine performance
- Expected pricing: ₹13.49–₹13.99 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Great value for urban and rural customers
- Launch likely around festive season 2025
