Published by Barnali Pal Sinha
Posted on February 9, 2026
3 min readLast updated: February 9, 2026
Large SUVs serve a very specific kind of buyer. They are chosen for road presence, durability, and the ability to handle long journeys with ease. In the used car market, buyers of large SUVs usually think beyond the upfront price. They look closely at how long the vehicle will last and how much it w...
Large SUVs serve a very specific kind of buyer. They are chosen for road presence, durability, and the ability to handle long journeys with ease. In the used car market, buyers of large SUVs usually think beyond the upfront price. They look closely at how long the vehicle will last and how much it will cost to run over time.
In this segment, two names stand out across India. The Mahindra Scorpio and the Tata Safari have built strong reputations over the years. Buyers evaluating 2nd hand Scorpio options are often comparing long-term durability against everyday ownership costs.
Asset longevity is one of the biggest reasons buyers choose large SUVs. These vehicles are expected to last for many years, even under heavy use. The Mahindra Scorpio has earned a reputation for toughness. Its ladder-frame construction and robust mechanical setup make it suitable for rough roads and long-distance travel.
Many used Scorpio models continue to perform reliably even after high mileage. This durability makes the Scorpio attractive to buyers who prioritise long-term usage over cosmetic refinement. It is often chosen by buyers who need a vehicle that can handle varied terrain and frequent travel.
The Tata Safari also carries a strong image of strength. Known for its solid build quality and stable highway performance, the Safari appeals to buyers who want a large SUV that feels planted and secure. Its design focuses more on comfort while still offering long-lasting structural strength.
While longevity is important, operating cost plays an equally critical role in used SUV ownership. Large SUVs naturally cost more to run than smaller vehicles, so buyers pay close attention to maintenance, fuel efficiency, and service availability.
The Scorpio’s advantage lies in its widespread service network and availability of spare parts. Maintenance costs are generally predictable, and many local workshops are familiar with its mechanical setup. This helps keep long-term servicing expenses under control.
The Tata Safari, on the other hand, focuses more on ride comfort and premium driving experience. Operating costs may be slightly higher depending on variant and usage, but many buyers accept this in exchange for improved cabin comfort and highway stability.
The choice between these two large SUVs often depends on how the vehicle will be used. Buyers who prioritise ruggedness, long service life, and ease of maintenance often lean towards the Scorpio.
At the same time, Tata Safari used cars appeal to buyers who value comfort, interior space, and a smoother driving experience. The Safari suits families and highway-focused users who want a large SUV that feels comfortable over long distances.
From a resale perspective, both models benefit from strong brand recognition. Demand remains steady for well-maintained examples, helping preserve value in the used market.
In the end, the decision comes down to balancing asset longevity against operating cost. Both the Scorpio and the Safari offer clear strengths, and understanding these differences helps buyers make a more informed and confident used SUV purchase.
Asset longevity refers to the expected lifespan of a vehicle, indicating how long it can remain functional and reliable under regular use.
Operating costs are the ongoing expenses associated with owning and maintaining a vehicle, including fuel, maintenance, and insurance.
A used SUV is a sport utility vehicle that has been previously owned and is available for resale in the automotive market.
Long-term durability refers to a vehicle's ability to withstand wear and tear over an extended period, ensuring it remains operational and reliable.
Vehicle maintenance involves regular checks and repairs to ensure a vehicle operates efficiently and safely, impacting its longevity and performance.
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