India’s relationship with pickup trucks has always been lukewarm. When Mahindra launched the Scorpio in 2002, it introduced the Scorpio Getaway, a pickup variant aimed at blending ruggedness with SUV appeal. Yet, Indian buyers largely ignored it. Even years later, pickups like the Isuzu D-Max struggled in the market, and the Toyota Hilux, despite its global reputation, hasn’t captured much attention and sales in India.
But why is this so? One reason could be perception. In India, pickups are often associated with farming or rural utility, which some urban buyers avoid due to outdated stereotypes. The deep cultural shift caused by 200 years of colonialism might have led to a reluctance to embrace anything with a “working-class” or “farmer” vibe. Buyers in India often lean toward vehicles that reflect urban sophistication rather than practicality.
The Global Pik Up will share the Scorpio N's robust ladder-frame chassis, ensuring excellent durability and off-road capability. It will also inherit the 2.2L mHawk diesel engine, offering a balance of power and efficiency. Transmission options will likely include both 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic gearboxes, with the inclusion of 4WD to cater to adventure enthusiasts.
With the Global Pik Up, Mahindra hopes to change this mindset. The new truck, unveiled in South Africa, will bring a mix of rugged design, technology, and premium features. It will be showcased at the Auto Expo in January 2025, with a launch expected by 2026.
Priced between ₹16.00 lakh and ₹22.00 lakh, the Global Pik Up promises to offer versatility while sticking to its diesel roots. However, the question remains—will Indian buyers finally warm up to pickups, or will this vehicle, like its predecessors, be a niche product for adventure seekers and enthusiasts?
What the Global Pik Up Adds
In addition to the Scorpio N’s strengths, the Global Pik Up will feature:
All-Terrain Styling: Snorkel, side steps, dual spare wheels, and roof rails with a carrier.
Off-Road Enhancements: Tweaked bumpers with towing hooks, vertically-stacked LED fog lamps, and all-terrain tires.
Exclusive Paint Options: Satin Titanium Gold with orange and black highlights.
The Global Pik Up aims to combine the Scorpio N’s proven capabilities with the practicality and toughness of a pickup. With 4WD and terrain-specific features, it is designed to appeal to adventure lovers and utility-seekers at global scale, specially in Africa and Australia. Whether it can overcome India’s hesitation towards pickups remains to be seen, but Mahindra’s strategy to base it on the Scorpio N gives it a strong foundation for countries, where people love pikups.