With two new mid-size SUVs in its portfolio, Mahindra aims to attract a wide range of customers. Compared to the XUV700 that uses a refined monocoque chassis, the Scorpio-N will use a ladder frame or body on a frame unit, just like its predecessor. While the Scorpio-N will be placed in the same segment as the XUV700, the different construction means that both the SUVs will have different driving dynamics.
As of now, no other car maker in India offers a ladder frame SUV in the mid-size segment. We already know that ladder frame setup is suitable for more rough and rough use. While it offers off-road superiority, a ladder on frame chassis also has lower production costs, meaning there will be some price difference between the upcoming Scorpio-N and the XUV700 to avoid cannibalism.
Nonetheless, the XUV700 will continue to cater to buyers who are primarily located in urban areas and prefer a comfortable ride, while the Scorpio will attract customers who are looking for a bold and rugged SUV that will be something you throw at it. Will take it too. Note that the XUV700 is also offered with an optional all-wheel drive (AWD) configuration that improves its off-road capabilities.
However, the ladder frame setup goes beyond this in terms of off-road prowess. While monocoque SUVs like the XUV700 have better on-road manners, the higher ground clearance and better wheel articulation on the body-on-frame SUVs make them an optimal choice for off-roading. Hence, this will help the Scorpio-N to attract buyers who want a masculine SUV.
This combination should give a cause for concern to arch rivals like Tata Motors as both Harrier and Safari are monocoque vehicles and there is less difference between them as compared to Scorpio-N and XUV700. Also, both the Tata vehicles do not come with 4X4 or AWD system, which limits their off-road capability. If the new Mahindra Scorpio-N is priced competitively, we could very soon see Mahindra ruling the sales charts by a long margin.