Custom Blue Mahindra Scorpio Classic S11 SUVs Join Indian Air Force Fleet [Video]
The Indian armed forces for a long time have been using the Mahindra Scorpio for their on-ground duties. Now, recently, the Indian Air Force has also added 5 new Mahindra Scorpio Classic S11s to their fleet. What makes these Scorpio Classics even more unique is that they are finished in the bright shade of Air Force Blue.
The video showing the Indian Air Force Mahindra Scorpio Classic S11s has been shared on Instagram by Chetraj on their page. In this short clip, we can note that the blue-colored SUV was on a public road. In total, there are around 5-6 of these SUVs, and all of them are finished in the Indian Air Force Blue color.
As we all are aware, Mahindra does not offer the Scorpio Classic S11 in this color. So most likely these SUVs have either been painted by Mahindra Automotive or by a government-authorised paint shop. Most likely these Scorpios will be used for ground staff duties at Air Force camps across the North Indian region.
The video also shows the interior of these Scorpio Classic S11s. We can note that these have not been fitted with any special equipment. Instead, they get the same beige and black cabin with a company-fitted touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and the standard multifunction steering wheel.
It has also been reported that these SUVs are the standard rear-wheel-drive models and do not have 4X4 capabilities. Once again, this highlights that these SUVs will not be used in any difficult terrains. The person who has shared this video has also mentioned that some 4X4 Scorpios have also been delivered.
The Mahindra Scorpio Classic S11 is the top-of-the-line variant, which currently is priced at Rs 16.99 lakh. It comes equipped with the time-tested 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo diesel engine, which makes 130 bhp and 300 Nm of torque. It is only offered with a 6-speed manual gearbox option.
Over the years, we have seen the Indian Army and Air Force use different generations of the Mahindra Scorpio. Now, there are a handful of reasons behind the forces using this SUV. The first is that the Scorpio is one of the most rugged, reliable, and easy-to-maintain SUVs available in India. Over the years, the Scorpio has proven itself in extremely harsh conditions.
These range from extremely hot deserts to cold mountainous regions. Also, its ladder-frame chassis, strong suspension setup, and high ground clearance, along with the 4X4 system, make it capable of taking on any off-road challenge. Another major reason behind its popularity among the armed forces is its time-tested 2.2-litre diesel engine.
This engine has been around for a long time, and it is very reliable. The Scorpio in India is known for its long-term durability and can handle heavy usage without breaking down. In addition to this, spare parts for the Scorpio are easily available across India, and Mahindra has a wide service network, which makes its maintenance convenient for the armed forces.
The current-generation Mahindra Scorpio Classic has been out for a while now without any major updates. As a result, it has been reported that Mahindra is gearing up for the launch of the new facelifted iteration of the Scorpio Classic. It is expected to get a set of slimmer LED projector headlights, a new front fascia, new alloy wheels, and new front and rear bumpers. Powertrain options will remain the same as the current model.