The Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up is one vehicle I've always been keen to drive. When you see one in traffic there's always a smile on the face of the driver and I'd think to myself, “either they're just that nice to drive or just that affordable”.
So imagine my delight when Uwe Kessler, former Pupkewitz GWM dealer-principal, called and told me about his recent move over to Spes Bona Motor Company further along Independence Avenue. He now manages a showroom gleaming with Peugeots, Citroens and Mahindras.
After a short chat, I asked him what he was driving now and I can hear the smile stretch across his face as he replies “I have the new Mahindra Scorpio and it's unbelievable, you need to take it for drive sometime”. That next Monday morning I was there bright, early and eager. I was this worked up because not only am I in the market for a bakkie, but I've grown a massive respect and appreciation for the offerings coming out of China and India lately. With the poor majority not being able to buy imported cars, these nations have grown their own automotive industries and are putting out hardy, strong vehicles that the masses can afford.
As one of India's top 10 manufacturers, Mahindra has over 60 years experience building commercial vehicles and farm machinery. The group now sells cars, bakkies, tractors and farm equipment to every continent on earth – except Antarctica. Though with current trends in the weather, it should be a lovely warm holiday destination in the not too distant future.
It's worth remembering that Mahindra and Mahindra got their start in 1945, building a clone of the CJ2 Jeep that was even rougher and tougher than the Willys original.
The Scorpio Pik-Up embodies that spirit even today, but they have come along way in terms of refinement and quality since then.
I'm given the keys to a beautiful new Scorpio, with alloy wheels and trallies added the necessary attitude.
“We're currently running a no deposit deal, from N$3 150 a month and we include the rims, trallies and rubberising,” Kessler added as I snatch the keys out of his hand and head off to the nearest, highest mountain I could find.
Scorpio Pik-Ups come in single and double cabs, but share the same 2.2-litre Turbodiesel, for which the maker quotes 89kW and 290Nm at 1600rpm to 2800rpm, and a five-speed manual 'box driving the rear wheels. You can switch into 4x4 lower and higher ranges with a simple turn of a dial and then the limited slip diff will get involved and save you from embarrassing yourself at your next Vasbyt.
On the road it's suprisingly nimble and reminds one of wild animal waiting to be released back into the wild. Not that it's only meant for hard labour and overland treks, the Scorpio has had its interior revised to offer all the creature comforts you'll need when you decide that the fun's over and it's time to head back to the city.
It has neat, unfussy new headlights and a scoop on the bonnet which gives adds even more attitude to this tank/ old Land Cruiser inspiration. Standard are its steel rims with plastic covers, mud flaps, a one-piece roof liner with moulded-in holders for sunglasses and map pockets in the doors.
Power steering is standard on a steering column that adjusts for tilt but not reach. Though you do need to get a hang of piloting this bad boy around, it has impeccable road manners and the ride is solid and comfortable, even when tackling rocks, ruts and corrugated gravel surfaces. This I think would become even more comfortable if one used up some of the 1.2 ton payload the Scorpio Pik-Up can carry.
At 1880mm (H) x 1770m (W) x 5098mm (L), the Pik-Up is a sizeable beast. The large load bay however offers more then generous loading space as it is deeper and longer then most. Cabin space is a little tight in terms of legroom, but it comes with handy storage behind and under the seats and in the centre console, which they gave a carbon fibre look, for reasons only understood on the sub-continent.
The standard kit list includes a single CD tuner with MP3 and steering wheel-mounted remote controls and auxiliary audio input(s), cruise control, air conditioning, power windows, remote central locking, engine immobiliser, 12-volt power outlet and height adjustable headlamps.
They come with a three year 100 000 km warranty, three years/60 000km service plan and service agents all over the country.
If you're in the market for a capable bakkie and willing to look beyond the established brands, you'll find the Mahindra Scorpio Pik-Up ticks all your boxes with a well built, well specced package and a price that's hard to ignore. Pop into the Group 1 Mahindra dealership for more information or to book a test drive.
Article source: https://www.namibian.com.na/index.php?id=130432&page=archive-read
