Mahindra's Scorpio N is a well-known SUV that is popular for its bold design, powerful engine, and rugged performance. Buyers often compare two of its top variants, the Z8 and Z8L, to understand the differences between them. This article will provide a simple and clear comparison of these two models, using only the details from the brochure screenshots.
We will discuss engine specifications, features, comfort, safety, design, and capabilities so that you can easily decide which one is best for your needs. Let’s get started!
Scorpio N Z8 vs Z8L: Comparison Table
Here is a comparison table of the differences between the Z8 and Z8L variants of the Mahindra Scorpio N:
Engine and Performance
The Z8 and Z8L share the same engine options—a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 149.14 kW of power at 5000 rpm and up to 380 Nm of torque and a 2.2-litre diesel engine making 128 kW of power at 3500 rpm and up to 400 Nm of torque. Both variants offer customers a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions, along with either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configurations.
The engine performance specifications of the Z8 and Z8L models are the same buyers can choose from the same engine, transmission, and drivetrain options across both variant lineups.
Interior and Comfort Features
The Z8L variant offers some extra comfort and convenience features over the base Z8 model. For the outside mirrors, the Z8L has power adjustability and folding for both the driver's and front passenger's mirrors, while the Z8 only has this for the driver's mirror. This makes it more convenient when parking or squeezing through tight spots. Inside the cabin, the Z8L has premium leatherette upholstery on the seats rather than regular fabric. This gives a more luxurious and upscale feel.
Both models share some other nice features like the electric sunroof that makes the cabin feel more airy and open, chrome accents on the door handles adding a touch of style, and a high-gloss centre console providing a classy look. Overall, the Z8L builds on the Z8 with some extras like the passenger power fold mirror, plusher leatherette seats, and a generally more premium vibe inside and out. But both offer a fairly modern and comfortable experience.
Technology and Safety Features
While both the Z8 and Z8L come equipped with standard safety features like ABS, ESC, Hill Assist, airbags, and ISOFIX mounts, the Z8L offers some extra capabilities. Exclusively available in the diesel 4WD Z8L is a selectable shift-on-the-fly 4WD system, intelligent 4XPLOR terrain response technology with Normal, Snow, Mud, and Sand modes, and an advanced electronic brake locking differential.
These features provide enhanced off-road performance and traction, which are missing in the Z8. So, for buyers needing more rugged capability, the Z8L diesel 4WD delivers with its specialised 4WD hardware and software. Yet the Z8 still provides core safety tech for reliable daily driving. The Z8L simply builds on that with its added off-road focus.
Exterior Design and Styling
Both the Z8 and Z8L share a bold, rugged exterior design ethos. However, the Z8L incorporates some premium accents that give it a more upscale, stylish look. These include a chrome-finished front grille, silver-coloured skid plates, dual-barrel LED projector headlamps with LED sequential turn signals, and silver-finished roof rails with an integrated ski rack. By contrast, the Z8 features a silver front grille, standard skid plates, dual-barrel halogen projector headlamps without sequential signals, and black roof rails.
So while the Z8 focuses more on utility and value, the Z8L dials up the exterior flair with its chrome trim pieces, high-end lighting components, and little styling enhancements that offer a taste of upmarket sophistication. Yet both retain their rugged, adventure-ready attitude.
Price and Value for Money
The Z8 diesel 4WD paired with a manual transmission is the most affordable option at ₹21,51,699. Opting for the automatic gearbox with the Z8 diesel 4WD raises the price to ₹23,24,099. In comparison, the Z8L diesel 4WD manual carries a higher starting price of ₹23,13,099, while its automatic variant costs ₹24,69,099. This premium pricing of the Z8L trims accounts for extra amenities absent in the Z8 such as a sunroof, leatherette upholstery, chrome embellishments, and enhanced off-road hardware.
So buyers prioritising luxury features and higher capability may find the extra expense justified for the Z8L. However, those seeking a value-focused yet fully-equipped SUV can still enjoy the Z8 diesel 4WD at a lower entry cost. Ultimately, priorities for affordability or upscale offerings will determine whether the Z8 or Z8L better satisfies needs.
Conclusion
The Mahindra Scorpio N Z8 and Z8L are both powerful SUVs, but they cater to different needs. The Z8 is a budget-friendly variant with essential features like alloy wheels, good suspension, and safety systems, making it a practical choice. The Z8L, however, offers premium features like ,leatherette seats, chrome accents, and advanced off-road capabilities with 4XPLOR terrain modes.
If you prefer luxury and off-road performance, the Z8L is ideal, while the Z8 is great for those who want a capable SUV without extra luxury. Your choice depends on your budget, driving needs, and feature preferences.