The Mahindra Scorpio N has established itself as one of the most popular SUVs across India, known for its muscular looks, premium features and imposing road presence. However, more than its brawny appearance, what many buyers really consider is whether they should get a petrol or diesel version.
They are both smooth and power-packed, built for the ruggedness which Scorpio stands for, yet offer varied benefits in terms of performance and mileage. If you need a little help deciding between the two, here’s how the petrol and diesel versions compare.
Both the new Mahindra Scorpio N engines are strong and powerful, like Mahindra promised, with these having been tuned accordingly. Both engines come with a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic gearbox, which now comes with a segment-first ‘shift-by-cable’ that offers reduced gear shift times and hence, better comfort of driving.
The petrol is the choice for those who treasure smoothness and a lively city drive, but the diesel excels at long-distance cruising and torque-heavy performance.
Power Output: 149.14 kW @ 5000 rpm
Torque (MT): 370 Nm @ 1750–3000 rpm
Torque (AT): 380 Nm @ 1750–3000 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Automatic
Driving Modes: Zip (easy control), Zap (SUV performance), Zoom (potent drive)
Mileage (ARAI):
Manual – 12.17 kmpl
Automatic – 12.12 kmpl
Power Output: 128.6 kW @ 3500 rpm
Torque (MT): 370 Nm @ 1500–3000 rpm
Torque (AT): 400 Nm @ 1750–2750 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Automatic
Driving Modes: Zip, Zap, Zoom for terrain adaptability
Mileage (ARAI):
Manual – 15.94 kmpl
Automatic – 15.42 kmpl
They deliver mileage in the 12 kmpl range, making them better suited for short urban commutes. They offer slightly lower efficiency, but a smoother engine feel.
They offer 15+ kmpl, ideal for frequent highway users or long-distance drivers. The superior fuel economy offsets the higher upfront cost over time.
This engine offers strong mid-range punch and refined drive quality. It is best suited for city users who want silent, effortless acceleration. The turbocharged petrol ensures responsiveness, but mileage dips with aggressive driving.
It is known for its torque-heavy nature, making it perfect for highway cruising and towing. Thanks to broader torque delivery, this engine feels more capable in off-road conditions. The diesel automatic variants give seamless stop-and-go driving, great for mixed usage.
You get six airbags that include front, side, and curtain airbags for occupant protection. Then there’s Level 2 ADAS that includes:
Forward Collision Warning
Automatic Emergency Braking (vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists)
Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go (AT variants)
Lane Departure Warning with audio, visual, and haptic feedback
The electronic systems include ABS with EBD for stable braking and Electronic Stability Control for high-speed safety. You also get the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) for continuous tyre pressure updates. When it comes to structural safety, the next-generation high-strength steel 3G frame provides rigidity and crash protection.
Your usage is mostly city-based with occasional highway drives. You prefer refinement, smoother acceleration, and slightly lower upfront costs, and fuel economy isn’t your top concern.
You clock higher distances, especially on highways. You need stronger pulling power for hilly terrains or towing, and long-term savings from higher fuel efficiency matter to you.
Both variants are generously equipped with safety technologies like six airbags, ADAS, and electronic stability aids, ensuring peace of mind behind the wheel. Either way, the Scorpio N delivers a blend of performance, capability, and protection that makes it one of the most versatile SUVs in its class.
The Mahindra Scorpio N, whether in petrol or diesel, lives up to its image of being a powerful and safe SUV designed for Indian roads. The petrol engine shines with refinement and city-friendly performance, while the diesel engine impresses with fuel efficiency and torque-heavy power for long drives and rugged terrains. Ultimately, your choice comes down to your driving style and usage - petrol for urban comfort or diesel for highway efficiency.
