In a notable shift within India’s competitive SUV market, Mahindra’s Scorpio has outpaced Tata’s Nexon to become the third best-selling SUV in May 2025. Mahindra sold 14,401 units of the Scorpio (including both Scorpio N and Scorpio Classic models), while Tata’s Nexon recorded sales of 13,096 units during the same period.
This development underscores the evolving preferences of Indian consumers, who are increasingly favoring robust and versatile vehicles like the Scorpio. The Scorpio’s appeal lies in its combination of rugged design, powerful performance, and modern features, making it a compelling choice for a wide range of buyers.
Top 10 SUV Sales in India – May 2025
Below, is the list of the models along with their number of units sold respectively.
Maruti Brezza – 15,566 units
Hyundai Creta – 14,860 units
Mahindra Scorpio – 14,401 units
Maruti Fronx – 13,584 units
Tata Punch – 13,133 units
Tata Nexon – 13,096 units
Mahindra Thar – 10,389 units
Mahindra Bolero – 8,942 units
Kia Sonet – 8,054 units
Mahindra XUV 3XO – 7,952 units
While the Maruti Brezza and Hyundai Creta continue to dominate the top two positions, the Scorpio’s ascent to third place is particularly noteworthy.
This achievement reflects Mahindra’s successful strategy in catering to the demands of SUV enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance and practicality.
Performance and Pricing
The Mahindra Scorpio is available with two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 203 bhp and a 2.2-liter diesel engine offering up to 175 bhp. These powertrains are paired with either manual or automatic transmissions, providing flexibility to suit different driving preferences. The Scorpio’s pricing ranges from ₹13.99 lakh to ₹25.15 lakh (ex-showroom), positioning it competitively within the segment.
In contrast, the Tata Nexon offers a 1.2-liter turbo petrol engine delivering 120 bhp and a 1.5-liter diesel engine with 115 bhp. The Nexon’s pricing starts at ₹8 lakh and goes up to ₹15.60 lakh (ex-showroom), making it an attractive option for buyers seeking a feature-rich compact SUV.
Market Dynamics
The Scorpio’s rise in the sales chart can be attributed to its strong brand legacy, continuous updates, and the introduction of new variants that resonate with consumers’ evolving preferences. Mahindra’s focus on enhancing the Scorpio’s appeal through design and technological advancements has played a crucial role in attracting new buyers.
Meanwhile, the Nexon, despite its consistent performance, faces stiff competition in the subcompact SUV segment. Tata Motors may need to explore further innovations and marketing strategies to regain its position in the top three.
Conclusion
Mahindra’s Scorpio achieving the third spot in May 2025 SUV sales signifies a significant shift in consumer choices within the Indian automotive market. As manufacturers continue to innovate and adapt to changing demands, the competition among SUVs is expected to intensify, offering consumers a wider array of options to choose from.
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