26/07/2025
Mahindra in the mountains: Nagaland’s go-to SUV
Kevichalhou Virie
Dimapur | July 26
When dawn breaks over the Dzükou Valley, the first rumble you hear is often a Mahindra engine. From the battered earth roads of Phek to the bustling streets of Dimapur, the silver ‘M’ badge has become more than just a brand; it is the workhorse and, increasingly, the pride of Nagaland. Built on ladder-frame chassis and powered by torquey diesel engines, Mahindra’s SUVs have cemented their place in the state’s collective imagination like few others.
In Nagaland, if you toss stone, chances are it will bounce off a Bolero and land on a Scorpio. These two are the people’s SUVs, from village roads to VIP convoys; they are everywhere, and for good reason.
Nagaland’s roads are tough, steep hills, landslides, rough tracks, and sudden floods during the monsoon. That’s where Mahindra shows its strength. Its strong ladder-frame chassis and high suspension can handle deep potholes and uneven roads that would damage most small cars. The Scorpio N comes with 4WD and low gear for climbing steep slopes, while even the regular Bolero has 180mm ground clearance, enough to cross rocky paths after a heavy rain. Many owners say they don’t have to visit the mechanic often, because the underbody doesn’t get hit easily, and the vehicle just keeps going.
Maintenance adds to the appeal. As 91 Wheels notes, Scorpio spares are “readily available, not only through authorised dealers but in Nagaland’s aftermarket network,” keeping downtime and bills low. That affordability is vital in districts where a day without the vehicle can mean missing the market run.j._johnjohn
To read more, get a copy of The Morung Express July 27, 2025 issue or visit www.morungexpress.com
