MG Hector Plus vs Mahindra Scorpio-N: Comparing Their Variants Priced Rs 16-18 Lakh for Off-roading Enthusiasts
Off the beaten track lies adventure. The off-roading enthusiast, for that reason, is looking only for the best off-road cars, or top SUVs for off-roading in India. Today, we look at the MG Hector Plus and Mahindra Scorpio-N, and find out what draws off-roaders to them.
In this article, we will share
- What an off-roading enthusiast looks for in a car
- MG Hector Plus vs Mahindra Scorpio-N – an in-depth look at their variants, features, and off-roading capabilities
- How to pick the right car for you
So, can these cars handle water-wading, rough or muddy terrains, or traverse through sand? Are they capable of mild to serious off-roading? Let’s find out.
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What an Offroading Enthusiast looks for in a car
Here’s what to look for in a car as an off-roading enthusiast:
- Drive system – What drive system does the vehicle have (FWD, AWD, or 4X4)
- Ground clearance – the car should have high ground clearance to tackle uneven terrains
- Low range gearing – the car should have low range gearing to allow the vehicle to drive at lower speeds while still operating the usable power band/RPM of the entire engine
- Locking differential – the vehicle should have differential locking for better traction when driving on soft, muddy or uneven surfaces
- Engine power and torque – the engine should have adequate power and generate enough torque
- Safety – safety features are important, especially when traveling through challenging terrains
- Comfort and convenience – the vehicle should offer good comfort, as well as convenience features
An offroading enthusiast seeks a blend of power, durability, and stability. Crucial features include high ground clearance, robust engine torque, advanced drive types like AWD or 4WD, and specific offroading attributes such as a good approach and departure angles, differential locking, and low-range gearing.
Comfort during rugged travels comes from solid suspension, reduced body roll, and substantial cabin insulation. Moreover, safety is paramount, with expectations for features like hill hold assist, traction control, and a high GNCAP rating. The overall build quality, fuel efficiency, and responsive handling also significantly influence the offroad driving experience.
Why MG Hector Plus and Mahindra Scorpio-N are Popular
The MG Hector Plus and Mahindra Scorpio-N have garnered attention among offroading enthusiasts, primarily due to their hearty build, commanding road presence, and adaptability to diverse terrains. Reviews often highlight the vehicles’ muscular aesthetics, reliable performance, and advanced tech integrations, marking them as favorable choices for offroad adventures.
The Mahindra Scorpio-N, renowned for its ruggedness, offers potent engine options with appreciable torque, ensuring good control and power delivery during challenging offroad conditions.
Its FWD drive type, though not optimal for extreme offroading, still provides a significant level of traction on rough terrains. The inclusion of features like ABS, ESC, and moderate ground clearance enables safe and stable offroading experiences.
Conversely, the MG Hector Plus stands out with its stylish design and premium cabin experience. While it’s not traditionally recognized as an offroad vehicle, its engine responsiveness, ground clearance, and stability control make it suitable for mild offroading escapades.
The Hector Plus also boasts advanced safety and comfort features, providing a luxurious feel even on bumpy tracks.
Both vehicles, however, have limitations such as the absence of 4WD/AWD and specific offroading features, which hardcore enthusiasts might find lacking compared to specialized offroad vehicles.
MG Hector Plus and Mahindra Scorpio-N variants shortlist in Rs 16-18 Lakh Range
For Mahindra Scorpio-N, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 18 October 2023 |
|---|---|
| Z4 AT | ₹1,663,000 |
| Z4 Diesel AT | ₹1,714,000 |
For MG Hector Plus, we have:
| Variant | Price (INR) as on 18 October 2023 |
|---|---|
| 1.5 Turbo Smart 7 Str | ₹1,750,000 |
Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 AT
Priced at INR 1,663,000, this variant is a feasible pick for offroading enthusiasts due to its powerful petrol engine with 200 BHP, ensuring robust performance on challenging terrains. Although it lacks a 4WD drive type and specific offroading features like differential locking or low-range gearing, its ground clearance of 187 mm, ABS, ESC, and hill hold assist provide a degree of offroading capability.
However, the FWD might be a constraint for extreme offroading situations. If you’re a tech-savvy gadget lover, you can read our comparison of the Scorpio-N with Mahindra XUV700.
Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 Diesel AT
This diesel variant, costing INR 1,714,000, offers a sturdy build with a torque of 400 Nm, providing better control and power management when navigating rough landscapes. Similar to its petrol counterpart, it has substantial safety features and ground clearance but lacks dedicated offroading attributes, making it suitable for mild offroad adventures. If you enjoy long drives, you can read our guide to the best Scorpio-N variants for you.
MG Hector Plus 1.5 Turbo Smart 7 Str
At INR 1,750,000, the MG Hector Plus offers a sophisticated blend of technology and comfort. With a ground clearance of 192 mm, it’s capable of handling uneven paths. The petrol engine with a turbocharger enhances performance, but the absence of dedicated offroading features and a FWD drive type makes it more suited for light offroading while prioritizing comfort and luxury. If you’re a family-focused car buyer, you can read our guide to the best Hector Plus variants for you.
Our Pick for the Best Variant Among MG Hector Plus and Mahindra Scorpio-N for Offroading Enthusiasts
The Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 Diesel AT emerges as the best variant for offroading enthusiasts. Despite both vehicles not being traditional offroad models, this variant from Mahindra outshines due to its higher torque of 400 Nm and diesel engine, known for better low-end torque essential for offroad conditions. The engine’s power and vehicle’s safety features compensate significantly for the lack of 4WD or AWD, offering control and stability on rough terrains.
Moreover, the Scorpio-N’s reputation as a tough vehicle plays a substantial role. Its build quality and durability ensure it can withstand more rigorous conditions compared to the MG Hector Plus.
Although it misses out on some offroading-specific features, for enthusiasts who prefer occasional offroad adventures without compromising on daily driving comfort, the Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 Diesel AT offers the best balance.
The 3 Variants Ranked in Order of Preference
- Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 Diesel AT
- Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 AT
- MG Hector Plus 1.5 Turbo Smart 7 Str
| Attributes | Scorpio-N Z4 Diesel AT | Scorpio-N Z4 AT | MG Hector Plus 1.5T Smart 7 Str |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price (INR) | 1,714,000 | 1,663,000 | 1,750,000 |
| Engine – Torque (Nm) | 400 | 380 | 250 |
| Ground clearance (mm) | 187 | 187 | 192 |
| ABS | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Hold assist | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Traction Control | No | No | Yes |
| ESC | Yes | Yes | Yes |
How to Pick the Right Car for You
- The Mahindra Scorpio-N Z4 Diesel AT takes the top spot because of its superior torque, robust construction, and the brand’s legacy of producing vehicles that perform well on rough terrains.
- The Scorpio-N Z4 AT follows closely, sharing many features with its diesel sibling but offers a slightly less torque.
- The MG Hector Plus 1.5 Turbo Smart 7 Str, while third, is acknowledged for its advanced safety features and slightly higher ground clearance, although it falls behind in engine torque, impacting its offroad performance.
Overall, these variants present a mix of offroad capability, safety, and comfort. They cater to enthusiasts who seek adventure while also valuing the practicality of everyday use. However, dedicated offroaders might find them lacking in specialized offroad features.
If you’re interested in reading more such face-to-face comparisons of popular car variants, head over to our Buying Advice section.
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