Kia EV5 vs Mahindra Scorpio N
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Kia EV5 starts from $49,770 before on-road costs, while the Mahindra Scorpio N opens at $48,990. That makes the Mahindra Scorpio N the more affordable entry point by $780.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $54,747 and $53,889 respectively.
The Kia EV5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Mahindra Scorpio N, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The Kia EV5 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Mahindra Scorpio N gets a 8-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Kia EV5 stands out with power tailgate and V2L that you will not find on the Mahindra Scorpio N. The Mahindra Scorpio N counters with Sony audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Kia EV5 gets cloth upholstery while the Mahindra Scorpio N offers leatherette.
Drivetrain
The Kia EV5 uses a Electric producing 160kW and 310Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.2 seconds.
The Mahindra Scorpio N responds with a 2.2L mHawk Turbo Diesel making 129kW and 400Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels.
The Kia EV5 has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 129kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Kia EV5 measures 4,615mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 47mm shorter than the Mahindra Scorpio N at 4,662mm (2,750mm wheelbase).
Boot space is 460L in the Kia EV5 and 460L in the Mahindra Scorpio N. The Mahindra Scorpio N seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Mahindra Scorpio N leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,500kg. That 1,000kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m diameter
Average
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Kia EV5) vs 7 years / 150,000km (Mahindra Scorpio N). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Kia EV5 if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mahindra Scorpio N if: You want the lower entry price, need stronger towing, or prefer Mahindra's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Kia EV5 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Kia EV5 and Mahindra Scorpio N?
The Mahindra Scorpio N is the cheapest at $48,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Kia EV5 by $780.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mahindra Scorpio N uses the least fuel at 7.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
The Kia EV5 has the highest ANCAP rating at 5 stars.
Which can tow the most?
The Mahindra Scorpio N has the highest braked towing capacity at 2,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Kia EV5 makes the most power at 160kW.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
Comments (0)
Sign in to join the conversation
No comments yet. Be the first!
