Mahindra has finally launched its first 3-row electric SUV — the XEV 9S — and expectations are sky-high. After showcasing the concept back in 2022, the production model is finally here, promising strong performance, modern tech, and an attractive price tag.
We tested the XEV 9S around Bengaluru to see whether it’s truly ready to convince ICE buyers to finally make the switch.
Quick Summary
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Design & Build | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭒ (8/10) |
| Space & Comfort | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭒ (8/10) |
| Features & Tech | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐ (9/10) |
| Performance & Refinement | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐ (9/10) |
| Range & Efficiency | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭒ (8/10) |
| Ride & Handling | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭒ (8/10) |
| Value for Money | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10) |
What Works
Punchy and smooth performance
Loaded with premium tech & safety
Excellent pricing
What Doesn’t
Some controls buried in menus
Third row best suited for kids
Design & Build Quality
At first glance, the XEV 9S looks familiar — and that’s intentional. Instead of going full futuristic like the BE series, Mahindra chose a safe but classy approach.
The SUV sits on the INGLO EV platform (rear-wheel drive layout) and gets:
Wide LED light strip up front
Flush door handles
Aero-optimized 18-inch alloy wheels
It manages to retain the muscular proportions of the XUV700 while adding EV-exclusive touches like the new closed grille and clean rear bumper design.
Interior Experience & Space
Step inside, and the dashboard layout feels premium and modern. A single glass panel houses three 12.3-inch screens — one each for the driver, infotainment, and front passenger.
Highlights Inside:
Ventilated seats (front + 2nd row outer seats)
Panoramic sunroof
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Huge 16-speaker Harman Kardon system
However, not everything is perfect — the touch-based HVAC and haptic steering buttons aren’t the most user-friendly, especially while driving.
Seating Experience
| Row | Comfort Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Row | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐ | Spacious, supportive, great visibility |
| 2nd Row | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭒ | Reclining + sliding seats, flat floor |
| 3rd Row | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭒⭒ | Best for kids/short trips |
The boot space is limited with all three rows up, but the 150L frunk helps with extra luggage.
Tech, Safety & Features
This is where the XEV 9S truly impresses.
Key Tech Highlights:
AI-based infotainment & voice controls
Augmented reality navigation in HUD
60+ in-car apps
ADAS & Safety
The SUV comes with a full Level-2+ ADAS suite including:
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Adaptive Cruise Control
Lane Keep Assist
Traffic Sign Recognition
Safety equipment includes 6 airbags (7 on higher trims), ESP, TPMS and ISOFIX.
Performance & Real-World Drive Feel
The XEV 9S is offered with three battery options:
| Battery Size | Power Output | Claimed Range |
|---|---|---|
| 59 kWh | 231 hp | 521 km |
| 70 kWh | 245 hp | 600 km |
| 79 kWh | 286 hp | 679 km |
We drove the 79 kWh version, and the performance was smooth, quick and effortless.
0-100 km/h: 7 seconds
Top speed: 202 km/h
Five regeneration levels including one-pedal driving mode make city driving much easier.
In terms of cabin refinement, Mahindra has done a brilliant job — wind and tyre noise are minimal, even at highway speeds.
Range, Charging & Efficiency
Real-world numbers should land close to 450+ km for the top variant based on earlier testing of similar models.
Charging details:
| Charger Type | Time (79kWh Pack) |
|---|---|
| 7.2 kW AC | ~11.7 hours |
| 11.2 kW AC | ~8 hours |
| 180kW DC Fast Charging | 20→80% in 20 mins |
Mahindra also offers a lifetime battery warranty for first owners — a huge confidence booster.
Ride & Handling
Mahindra has softened the suspension for better family comfort. City ride quality is plush, but there’s a bit of floatiness on rolling highways.
The RWD layout helps handling, and the steering feels natural and well-weighted at higher speeds.
Price & Verdict
Pricing (Ex-showroom, Introductory)
| Variant | Price |
|---|---|
| Pack One Above | ₹19.95 lakh |
| Pack Two | ₹– |
| Pack Three (79 kWh) | ₹29.45 lakh |
At this price, the XEV 9S delivers an unbeatable mix of technology, space, and performance.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy It?
If you’re considering a premium petrol/diesel SUV, the XEV 9S is now a serious alternative. It’s practical, future-ready, feature-loaded, and surprisingly affordable.
Score: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ (8.7/10)
A value-packed family EV that finally makes the shift from fuel to electric feel logical — not experimental.
FAQs
Is the Mahindra XEV 9S good for long trips?
Yes — especially with the 70 kWh and 79 kWh options offering real-world 400–450 km range.
Is the 3rd row usable?
Usable for kids or short drives. Adults may not be comfortable for long durations.
Does it support fast charging?
Yes, up to 180 kW DC charging.
How does it compare to XUV700?
If you need space, comfort, and lower running cost — the XEV 9S makes a strong case over the XUV700.
