Mahindra’s 132PS/300Nm 2.2-litre diesel engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission powers both SUVs. The Thar also gets an automatic and petrol-powered option.

The SUVs are neck-and-neck in the 0-100kmph test with a time of just over 13 seconds.

However, the Scorpio Classic is quicker in roll-on tests while accelerating in third and fourth gears.

In the braking test, the Thar manages to narrowly win by coming to a stop in 41.42 metres from 100kmph, while the Scorpio Classic takes 41.5 metres.

This is likely down to the Thar’s wider 255-section tyres that help the 4x4 SUV stop slightly sooner.

The Mahindra Thar is the more expensive SUV at Rs 13.59 lakh to Rs 16.29 lakh. The Scorpio Classic retails between Rs 11.99 lakh and Rs 15.49 lakh (ex-showroom).