Mahindra XEV 9S First-Drive Review: Electrified XUV700 or More?

Mahindra has finally introduced one of its most awaited electric SUVs — the Mahindra XEV 9S. This EV has been silently building excitement ever since the company showcased the XUV e8 concept in 2022. After years of development and multiple tests, the vehicle has now arrived as a production-ready electric SUV with features and capability that position it as a strong contender in the premium EV market.

The XEV 9S enters the lineup after Mahindra’s BE 6 and XEV 9e demonstrated the potential of the brand’s new INGLO platform. Those earlier models performed well with impressive sales, but the XEV 9S is the model Mahindra expects will push its EV journey into the mainstream. It has been launched at a competitive starting price of ₹19.95 lakh (ex-showroom), making it India’s first mass-market three-row electric SUV.

What makes things more interesting is that the XEV 9S is bigger, more practical, and more versatile than the XEV 9e, yet it is priced ₹1.95 lakh lower. This gives customers a more affordable entry into Mahindra’s growing range of electric SUVs while delivering a cabin and driving experience that feels premium.

This review covers everything you need to know — design, interiors, performance, range, features, and whether it truly feels like an electrified version of the XUV700 or something more.

Design & Road Presence: Modern Yet Familiar

The XEV 9S carries a strong road presence with a design language inspired by Mahindra’s latest EV styling direction. Although the foundation comes from the XUV700, the XEV 9S feels quite different in visual character.

Exterior Highlights:

• Wide front fascia with signature LED DRLs

• Aerodynamic profile built for efficiency

• Flush door handles for a premium EV look

• Large alloy wheels that enhance its stance

• A clean rear with a full-width LED light bar

The SUV looks futuristic, especially with its minimalistic design details and smooth surfaces. It stands out on the road, looking more modern than the XUV700 but without losing the bold Mahindra identity.

Interior & Cabin Space: Comfort for the Entire Family

Step inside, and the XEV 9S immediately impresses with a cabin that feels premium and spacious. The INGLO platform allows for a very flat floor, improved legroom, and better seat positioning.

Interior Experience:

• A large infotainment screen with clean UI

• Fully digital instrument cluster

• Premium soft-touch dashboard materials

• Ventilated seats (in selected variants)

• Massive panoramic sunroof

• Improved sound insulation for a quieter cabin

The biggest talking point, of course, is the three-row seating. The XEV 9S becomes the first mass-market 3-row electric SUV in India, bringing practicality for families who want to shift to electric without compromising on seating.Mahindra XEV 9S

The third row is usable for kids or medium-height adults and creates a strong advantage over other EVs in the segment.Mahindra XEV 9S

Performance & Driving Feel: Smooth, Silent, Confident

Mahindra has tuned the XEV 9S to deliver effortless performance. The driving experience feels refined, and in many ways, even more comfortable than the XUV700.

Key Performance Traits:

• Instant electric torque makes acceleration quick

• Smooth and silent motor operation

• Stable ride quality even at high speeds

• Good throttle response suitable for both city and highway

• Strong regenerative braking modes for better range

Handling feels predictable and controlled, thanks to the EV-focused platform and low centre of gravity. The XEV 9S gives confidence while overtaking and gliding through traffic.

Battery & Range: Built for Real-World Usability

Mahindra has not only focused on power delivery but also on efficiency. The XEV 9S comes with a battery pack selected to balance range, weight, and cost.

Expected Real-World Range:

• Around 300–350 km on a single charge in mixed driving

• Higher range possible with eco mode + light acceleration

Fast-charging support is available, allowing the SUV to charge from 10% to around 80% in under an hour (depending on charger capacity).

For daily commuters or family city usage, the range is more than adequate. Occasional long trips also become manageable with India’s growing public charging network.

Features & Technology: Loaded for the Future

Mahindra continues its tech-rich tradition with the XEV 9S. The SUV brings several premium features that elevate comfort, convenience, and safety.

Important Features:

• Advanced driver assistance system (ADAS)

• Wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay

• Over-the-air software updates

• Multiple driving modes

• 360-degree camera

• Dual-zone climate control

• Premium audio system

Safety has also been improved with multiple airbags, advanced traction control, and structural rigidity designed for EV safety standards.

Is It an Electrified XUV700 or Something More?

This is the big question many buyers are asking. Mahindra XEV 9S The XEV 9S shares the spirit of the XUV700 — strong road presence, great comfort, spacious interiors, and premium feel. But it also brings unique advantages:

• True electric performance

• Quieter cabin

• Smoother acceleration

• EV-focused platform (not converted from ICE)

• Lower running cost

• First-in-India 3-row electric configuration

In simple terms:
The XEV 9S is not just an electric XUV700. It is more refined, more futuristic, more efficient, and more practical for modern EV users.Mahindra XEV 9S

Mahindra has made sure the XEV 9S feels like a step into the next generation of family SUVs.

Pricing & Verdict: A Strong Value Proposition

At ₹19.95 lakh (ex-showroom), the Mahindra XEV 9S offers tremendous value. Being more affordable than the XEV 9e while offering more space, practicality, and presence makes it a smart choice for families who want to adopt electric mobility without overspending.

Why You Should Consider the XEV 9S:

• Attractive price for a large electric SUV

• 3-row seating not available in rivals

• Strong performance and EV range

• Mahindra’s reliable new EV platform

• Feature-loaded cabin

• Excellent road presence

Final Verdict:

The Mahindra XEV 9S is more than an electrified XUV700. It is one of the most practical and value-packed electric SUVs in India today, offering a complete package for families transitioning to electric mobility.

Comparison Table (Quick Points)

 

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