Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Scorpio N: Base Variants Compared

Mahindra recently launched the much-anticipated 5-door Thar Roxx on our shores and the lifestyle off-roader has already caught a lot of attention. Up until now, the Thar was only available as a 3-door model and it wasn’t well-equipped in terms of the features on offer as well as certain exterior design elements. However, those misses have been turned into positives with the Thar Roxx, which have made it more suitable to compete with the day-to-day compact and mid-size SUVs. In this article, we will be comparing the base variant of the Thar Roxx with the base variant of the Scorpio N to find out which SUV makes a more practical buy if you are on a budget. 

The match begins: 

Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Scorpio N: Price 

*Introductory pricing 

There is an approximate difference of Rs 1 lakh for the base variant of both these SUVs. The Scorpio N is the more expensive SUV out of the two, making us wonder if the premium is justified and worth paying. Let’s find that out. 

Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Scorpio N: Design and Dimensions 

Being the entry-level variant of both these SUVs, there are plenty of design elements that you will find missing compared to higher variants. But there is nothing that can't be added from aftermarket sources, and Thar fanboys would know that better than anyone.

The Thar Roxx MX1 variant sports LED projector headlights, LED turn indicators, 18-inch steel wheels and LED tail lamps, while the Scorpio N base variant comes with halogen headlamps, 17-inch steel wheels, and LED tail lamps. Let’s take a look at their dimensions: 

*Without roof rails and antenna

In terms of dimensions, the Scorpio N is the longer and wider SUV, while the Thar Roxx is taller and has a longer wheelbase by 100 mm. Even though the Thar has the longer wheelbase, it is the Scorpio N that is offered in both 6- and 7-seater configurations. 

*The Scorpio N image used is of the top-spec variant and is only for reference. 

Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Scorpio N: Features

The base variant of the Thar Roxx is slightly superior in terms of equipment. It gets features such as, a larger touchscreen system, a reverse parking camera, push button start-stop and most importantly, 6 airbags over the base-spec Scorpio N. 

Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Scorpio N: Powertrain

Now moving on to the most important thing, the heart of both the SUVs. One would expect an adequately powered engine irrespective of the variant they pick. So, let’s take a look at the specifications of both the SUVS:

If you are someone who loves to drive enthusiastically and want a powerful engine, the Scorpio N’s turbo-petrol engine will satisfy your needs. That being said, the same engine is available on the Thar Roxx as well, albeit in a lower tune. The diesel engine is also shared between the two, but here it is the Thar Roxx which produces more output. Both SUVs are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Higher-spec variants also get the option of automatic transmissions and a four-wheel drive system.

Verdict

Both Scorpio N and Thar Roxx are value for money SUVs for the price they are offered at. Yes, there are certain misses here and there but it’s still more than what you expect from a base variant of a car.  

In terms of looks, both these SUVs offer boxy and muscular styling with a commanding road presence. It’s tough to pick between the two, and the decision ultimately comes down to your use case. With a slightly better equipment list, and more powerful diesel engine, the Thar Roxx can be your pick if you’re buying the car for your own personal use and want something that’s more capable than a regular front- or rear-wheel drive car. 

But if you want the car for your entire family of 6 or 7 occupants, then you won’t go wrong with the Scorpio N either as it offers all the essential features with comfortable three rows of seating. Not to mention, it also gets a more powerful petrol engine, in case you didn’t want to opt for the diesel option.

With all the details divulged in this article, which base-spec SUV would you pick?Let us know in the comments below.