The Scorpio N and us go back a long time since previously we drove one back from Pune to Delhi in one day flat while this time, the job was less strict and indeed, being more of a fun road trip. We drove from Mumbai to Goa and back along with driving across Goa in the Scorpio N petrol while also getting a clear idea regarding this engine. We have had the diesel with us earlier for a long distance drive while this time we settled for the 2.0 turbo petrol and see how it copes with a long road trip.
The plan was to munch through the miles and also see if the efficiency is affected by year end traffic along with its handling abilities. The 2.0l turbo petrol is a beast of an engine though and is incredibly smooth. It is refined and has a muscular power delivery which does not taper away. This engine clearly feels a cut above the smaller capacity motors and is a highlight. You are actually surprised by how strong those 200 plus horses and that 380Nm torque feels and it shames luxury SUVs costing thrice in terms of raw power.
Our car had the 6-speed automatic and it is a relaxed gearbox while it is more for cruising rather than being outright sporty which is fine. There are no shift paddles but we did not need them honestly thanks to this engine. The lighter steering and the robust suspension also came across as impressive for our trip. Despite being a big car, navigating it through traffic isn't difficult and the light steering is direct enough for being confidence inspiring at high speeds. The handling though was a surprise, the petrol Scorpio N handles more keenly than the diesel while maintaining composure. It is not too soft and nor does it have too much body roll. Sure, you need to take it carefully across tight hill sections and there is the ladder frame induced body roll, but it is contained. The ride does get slightly choppy though at low speeds but gets better at higher speeds.
The interior has the same authoritative driving position and like we have said before, the Scorpio N is a huge change for the Scorpio in terms of design or ergonomics. It is comfortable and just about gobbled up our luggage while offering enough space as well although the third row isn't for adults. Grab handles are a much needed feature since you have to 'climb into' this car while the cabin has a tough but premium charm which handles the hardships that a vehicle has been put through many days and kilometers. The driver seat itself is generous on support and the driving position also felt spot on. Handling the tight lanes of Goa, in the Scorpio N was no issue. That said, a 360 degree camera would have been nice along with a larger touchscreen. It does get all of the other premium features though. Sound quality is crisp as well.
Efficiency is a huge talking point in the Scorpio N petrol which reaches low single digits when driven hard or in bumper to bumper traffic while a genre cruise takes it up to 10kmpl. In the city, you will get 8-9kmpl but the ample power will be tempting enough to go for this engine.
Our long journey to Goa and back from Mumbai revealed that the Scorpio N petrol keeps some of the good bits of the Scorpio brand but moves it much more upmarket. It is also upmarket in terms of prices but it is fantastic value for money in terms of a tough SUV with that smooth, powerful petrol motor. Yes, the petrol Scorpio N does like a drink but the smoothness and performance makes it worth it.
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