Scorpio M-Hawk ready to spread its wings

Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) has launched an upgraded Scorpio called the M-Hawk with an all-new 2.2-litre engine that puts out a healthy 120bhp. This new engine, known internally as the Eagle, has been branded the M-Hawk as both the Eagle and Hawk names have been registered elsewhere.

The M-Hawk was developed jointly by M&M and engine consultant AVL. It boasts four-valves per cylinder and a host of other high-tech features. The engine promises superior performance and fuel efficiency and M&M is banking on this engine for its export models as well. Made from aluminium alloy, the M-Hawk is 60kg lighter than the current CRDe motor and the reduced mass is expected to improve dynamics too. M&M has roped in ride and handling specialist Lotus to tweak the Scorpio’s suspension. Though the layout and design remains the same, the damper settings have been changed and other components like the springs and linkages have been fine-tuned.

Lotus is reputed to have spent months of testing in India to sort out the Scorpio’s sloppy handling — its single biggest weakness. Other mechanical improvements include a revised gearbox, which now has double synchro rings for first gear. Also, the propeller shaft is now a one-piece unit and has been optimised to improve NVH.

As you can see from these images, there are few external changes to the Scorpio except for a set of new alloys and the M-Hawk badge on the front fender. The interior is also similar but there are many more features, which indicate the upmarket positioning the M-Hawk is going to take. This feature list includes audio controls on the steering wheel, tyre pressure sensors and rain-sensing wipers. The M-Hawk will be priced higher than the regular Scorpio CRDe, which M&M will continue to produce. The idea is to broaden the Scorpio range and offer variants at different price points. At the time of going to press prices were not released, but the M-Hawk with its new engine and other features is expected to cost around Rs 1 lakh more than the regular Scorpio.

The M-Hawk will be positioned against the new Safari which, interestingly, also has an all-new 2.2-litre common-rail diesel motor developed by AVL. The Scorpio M-Hawk will be displayed at the Auto Expo in January 2008.