After months of speculation, the first spy video of the next-generation Mahindra Pik Up has surfaced online. This comes over a year after a trademark filing hinted at the new model’s name. The upcoming bakkie, reportedly called the Scorpio X, is expected to make its debut later this year before officially hitting the market in 2026.
Hello, Scorpio X? The Legacy Continues
The Scorpio X has been a long time coming. Initially introduced as the Global Pik Up Concept during Mahindra’s Independence Day event in Cape Town three years ago, the bakkie—internally referred to as the Z121—is set to be Mahindra’s first completely redesigned Pik Up in nearly 20 years.
With the Bolero and the existing Pik Up (sold as the Scorpio Getaway since 2006) making up Mahindra’s bakkie lineup, the Scorpio X is expected to add a modern and rugged alternative to the mix.
Spotted! The First Glimpse of the Scorpio X
The first clear spy shot, uploaded by Instagram user vashusingh123, shows a single-cab test mule being put through its paces in India. Unlike the current Pik Up, the prototype features the front fascia of the Scorpio-N SUV but retains a load bin from the current model. This suggests that the vehicle spotted is an early-stage test unit.
Further evidence of its test phase includes its extended wheelbase and the use of Scorpio-N alloy wheels. Additionally, the vehicle features a sport bar that appears to be borrowed from the existing Pik Up.
Power and Performance: What’s Under the Hood?
While detailed specifications remain scarce, it is confirmed that the Scorpio X will continue to use Mahindra’s 2.2-litre mHawk turbodiesel engine as its primary power source in key markets. This powerplant is expected to be paired with either a six-speed manual or an Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic transmission.
A 2.0-litre mStallion turbo-petrol engine, currently used in the Indian-market Scorpio-N and South Africa’s XUV700, is also expected to be introduced in select markets. However, the diesel variant is likely to remain the more popular option.
No Bigger Displacement than 2.2-Litre
During an interview with Australian automotive publication CarExpert, Mahindra’s Product Development and Technology President, R Velusamy, confirmed that the Scorpio X will not feature an engine larger than the 2.2-litre mHawk diesel. He also stated that the engine, when paired with the Aisin automatic gearbox, could produce up to 450 Nm of torque.
Additionally, there are no plans for a high-performance version similar to the Toyota Hilux GR Sport or Ford Ranger Raptor.
Three Variants for More Choices
The Scorpio X will be available in three configurations: a double cab, a single cab, and—for the first time—a cab-and-a-half option. It is also expected to boast a towing capacity of 3,500 kg and a five-star Australian NCAP safety rating.
Another notable addition is the introduction of new drive modes—Zip, Zap, Zoom, and Custom—alongside four four-wheel-drive settings: Normal, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, and Sand.
More Details to Come: The Road Ahead
While it remains unclear whether Mahindra will manufacture the Scorpio X in South Africa alongside the existing Pik Up or as a standalone model, more details are expected to emerge in the coming weeks and months. With the first sightings of the new model now public, anticipation for Mahindra’s next-generation bakkie continues to build.
Related article: Mahindra Pik-Up vs Toyota Hilux: Which Bakkie Reigns Supreme in 2024?
