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What you need to earn to afford the new Mahindra Scorpio-N

South Africans interested in taking home the new Mahindra Scorpio-N will need to earn a minimum of R46,000 per month, according to a calculation by TopAuto.

The SUV has a local starting price of R465,000, up to R590,000 for the top-of-the-range, and is available in three trim levels in either a 4×2 or 4×4 configuration.

Regardless of the model selected, buyers will gain access to a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel motor paired with a six-speed automatic shifter, which produces 129kW and 400Nm while averaging 6.9l/100km on a typical fuel cycle.

Also included are three driving modes labelled “Zip, Zap, and Zoom” which equate to your more familiar Eco, Normal, and Sport settings, while the 4×4 models gain programmes for Grass, Gravel, Snow, Mud, Rut, and Sand.

Standard equipment across the range consists of dual-zone climate control, a reverse camera, rear parking sensors, cruise control, hill ascent and descent control, and driver alert monitoring.

Occupants will also be able to make use of a 7-inch digital driver display flanked by analogue dials, and an 8-inch AdrenoX infotainment unit with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation.

Upgrading to the mid-spec Z8 model throws in an additional climate control zone, black leatherette upholstery, keyless entry and start, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic LED headlights.

Those who opt for the top-spec Z8 L can also expect a front camera, front parking sensors, a 12-speaker Sony stereo, an electronically-adjustable driver seat, and a wireless charger.

What you need to earn

We can use the following formula to determine what the monthly payments on the new Mahindra would be:

  • Car price – R465,000 / R590,000
  • Payment term – 60 terms (5 years)
  • Interest – 10.75%
  • Deposit – 10%
  • Balloon – No balloon payment
  • Extras – No optional extras

From this, we can calculate that the Scorpio-N will require a minimum payment of at least R9,142 per month, or R11,574 per month for the top-spec model.

Financial experts then recommend that you do not spend more than 20% of your gross monthly salary on vehicle payments.

We can therefore say that anyone who wishes to purchase the SUV on a payment plan will need to earn at least R45,710 per month, or R57,870 per month for the Z8 L.

However, it is important to note that this sum does not include additional expenses that must be accounted for, such as insurance, fuel, and maintenance.

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