Mahindra Scorpio N vs Kia Sportage
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
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
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 Mahindra Scorpio N features a 8-inch touchscreen paired with a 7-inch digital dash, while the Kia Sportage gets a 12.3-inch display and 4-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mahindra Scorpio N stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and Sony audio that you will not find on the Kia Sportage. The Kia Sportage counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mahindra Scorpio N uses a 2.2L mHawk Turbo Diesel producing 129kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a 4WD layout.
The Kia Sportage responds with a Petrol making 115kW and 192Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The Mahindra Scorpio N has the clear power advantage at 129kW vs 115kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mahindra Scorpio N measures 4,662mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 23mm shorter than the Kia Sportage at 4,685mm (2,755mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Kia Sportage generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Mahindra Scorpio N leads with a 2,500kg braked capacity vs 1,650kg. That 850kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.4m diameter
Average
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,052/year for the Mahindra Scorpio N and $1,767/year for the Kia Sportage. That is a $285 annual difference in favour of the Kia Sportage.
Estimated annual total: $2,052 (Mahindra Scorpio N) vs $1,767 (Kia Sportage). The Kia Sportage saves you roughly $285 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 150,000km (Mahindra Scorpio N) vs 7 years / 999,999km (Kia Sportage). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mahindra Scorpio N if: You prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Mahindra's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Kia Sportage if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Kia's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Mahindra Scorpio N and Kia Sportage trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Kia Sportage will save you roughly $285 a year in fuel. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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