In August 2024, Mahindra launched the highly anticipated Thar Roxx, a rugged, off-road-focused SUV with prices between Rs 12.99 lakh and Rs 22.49 lakh (ex-showroom). The Thar Roxx, designed to cater to off-road enthusiasts, quickly found itself competing with the more versatile Mahindra Scorpio N, which shares a similar price range and equally capable diesel engine. With both models offering diesel-automatic variants, we decided to put these two Mahindra giants to the test to see how they fare in terms of acceleration, braking, and overall performance.
Engine Specs and Transmission
Both the Mahindra Thar Roxx Diesel AT and the Scorpio N Diesel AT feature 2.2-litre diesel engines paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Both engines generate 175 PS of power, but the Scorpio N edges out the Thar Roxx with an additional 30 Nm of torque, boasting a total of 400 Nm. Although this extra torque gives the Scorpio N an advantage on paper, the Thar Roxx demonstrates an impressive showing in real-world performance tests, suggesting that off-road tuning may give it an edge in certain conditions.
Acceleration Comparison
Our first tests measured acceleration from a standstill to 100 kmph and over the quarter-mile distance. The results were surprising, as the Thar Roxx Diesel AT proved slightly faster despite the Scorpio N’s higher torque. The Thar Roxx achieved 0-100 kmph in 11.20 seconds, while the Scorpio N followed closely at 11.67 seconds. This 0.47-second difference may seem minimal, but it reflects the Thar Roxx’s off-road-specific tuning and lower curb weight.
In the quarter-mile test, the Thar Roxx clocked 17.71 seconds at 124.32 kmph, marginally outpacing the Scorpio N, which completed the quarter-mile in 18.09 seconds at 124.14 kmph. While these numbers indicate the Thar Roxx's slight acceleration edge, both SUVs performed remarkably well given their size and focus on rugged durability over raw speed.
Our kickdown test (accelerating from 20 kmph to 80 kmph) further highlighted the Thar Roxx’s quick response, clocking 6.59 seconds compared to the Scorpio N’s 6.87 seconds. Although the difference is slight, it shows the Thar Roxx’s agility, which is an asset in off-road scenarios where quick throttle response is crucial for challenging terrain.
Braking Efficiency
Next, we tested both SUVs’ braking abilities at 100-0 kmph and 80-0 kmph. Once again, the Thar Roxx demonstrated its capabilities with a shorter stopping distance, reinforcing its off-road-ready design. The Thar Roxx took 42.12 metres to come to a complete stop from 100 kmph, while the Scorpio N required 44.85 metres. This difference in braking distance of 2.73 metres may seem minor, but it is significant in real-world driving, especially when making sudden stops on unpredictable surfaces.
From 80 kmph to 0, the Thar Roxx stopped in 25.39 metres, while the Scorpio N recorded 28.14 metres. These results underline the Thar Roxx’s focused braking setup, likely tuned for better off-road handling, providing drivers with more control on uneven surfaces.
Price and Competitors
The Thar Roxx and Scorpio N fall within a similar price range, making them contenders within and beyond Mahindra’s lineup. The Thar Roxx Diesel AT ranges from Rs 17.49 lakh to Rs 22.49 lakh, while the Scorpio N Diesel AT sits slightly higher at Rs 17.55 lakh to Rs 24.54 lakh (all prices ex-showroom).
The Mahindra Thar Roxx directly rivals other off-road-oriented models like the Force Gurkha 5-door and Maruti Jimny. In its price bracket, it also serves as an adventurous alternative to compact SUVs like the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, Honda Elevate, and Skoda Kushaq. However, its off-road specialization means it caters more to adventure enthusiasts than to city dwellers.
The Mahindra Scorpio N, on the other hand, offers a more versatile blend of off-road and on-road capability. Its larger size and 4x4 capabilities make it a formidable choice against SUVs like the Tata Harrier, Tata Safari, Hyundai Creta, and Hyundai Alcazar. It’s also an alternative for those considering the Mahindra XUV700 but prioritizing rugged, off-road ability.
Conclusion: Which SUV Comes Out on Top?
Choosing between the Mahindra Thar Roxx Diesel AT and the Mahindra Scorpio N Diesel AT boils down to intended use. The Thar Roxx is clearly designed with off-road aficionados in mind, offering faster acceleration and sharper braking, both valuable for navigating trails and rugged landscapes. Its performance tuning makes it a natural fit for adventure seekers who value agility and stopping power.
The Scorpio N, with its additional torque, versatile design, and larger seating capacity, is ideal for those seeking an SUV that can transition seamlessly between city roads and rugged terrains. While it trails slightly in acceleration and braking, the Scorpio N’s broader feature set, extra seating, and torque advantage make it a more versatile family SUV with ample off-road prowess.
Ultimately, if you’re seeking a dedicated off-roader, the Thar Roxx is your go-to choice, but for a well-rounded, family-friendly SUV with off-road capabilities, the Scorpio N offers a balanced option with a more versatile package.
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