Mahindra XEV 9e Test Drive Review

Mahindra has just unveiled its new SUV lineup, and the crowd is definitely wowed by its offerings. These vehicles are being referred to as “electric origin SUVs,” developed from the ground up as electric vehicles. Last year, Mahindra showcased its all-electric INGLO platform, which now underpins both the XEV 9e and BE 6e. The XEV 9e is the spiritual electric successor to the XUV700 and the flagship model in Mahindra’s mid-size XUV range. We spent a day with the XEV 9e and were quite impressed by the progress Mahindra has made following the rather mediocre XUV400.

The design is quite different from the XUV700, featuring a bold stance and wide shoulders. The coupe design is visually appealing and has a BMW X6-like vibe. The front end sports classic Mahindra DRLs, LED headlamps, and a covered front EV grille. The coupe design is particularly striking from the side, and the chunky 20-inch wheels add to the muscular look. These are optional, though, as the car is otherwise offered with 19-inch wheels. Ground clearance is a comfortable 207 mm, while the battery ground clearance is slightly higher at 218 mm.

The piano black finish on the lower end of the bumper looks good but is likely to get scratched easily, potentially becoming an eyesore over time. The rear LED taillights are neatly integrated into the rear spoiler. Instead of a conventional sunroof, the vehicle features a panoramic glass roof, which doesn’t open. The design grows on you over time and exudes a modern vibe.

Inside, there are similarities to the XUV700, but the differences are significant. The dashboard now features a 3-screen design: an instrument cluster, an infotainment system, and an additional screen in front of the front passenger. The additional screen is meant for entertainment like YouTube and social media, but its purpose is questionable. The lack of a privacy filter on this screen means the driver can easily get distracted. Additionally, integrating the AC controls into the infotainment system can be distracting while driving

Besides the usual features, the XEV 9e offers several gimmicks, such as the “Groove Me” function, which creates a light show with the front and rear lights. The interior layout resembles the XUV700, but the light faux leather upholstery might get dirty over time. We expect Mahindra to offer darker upholstery options, as it did with the Roxx.

Ingress and egress are easy, thanks to the wide-opening doors. The seats are comfortable, with sufficient headroom, shoulder room, and knee room in the front. In the rear, however, headroom is limited due to the coupe roofline. The front passenger seat can be adjusted using a knob from behind, a convenience for those being chauffeured. The middle passenger at the rear gets a headrest, but this compromises rear visibility for the driver. The small rear glass doesn’t help matters either.

Key features include a 1,400-watt, 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with phenomenal sound quality, a large panoramic glass roof with LEDs, and Level 2+ ADAS with five radar sensors and a camera. The ADAS system can detect pedestrians, cows, and barricades—common obstacles in India. There’s also a selfie camera that scans the driver for fatigue and drowsiness. Mahindra has added an Auto Park feature, usually found in high-end cars. However, the interior’s extensive use of piano black makes it prone to scratches.

Boot space is substantial at 663 litres, but the coupe-like design reduces practicality. An additional 150 litres of space is available in the frunk. The steering wheel is reminiscent of Tata’s, featuring an illuminated logo in the centre. While there’s a lot to admire, there are a few misses, such as the absence of a cooled glovebox and a full-sized spare tire.

Mahindra offers two battery packs: 59 kWh and 79 kWh. The BYD-sourced batteries have high packing efficiency, allowing more cells per unit area. We drove the 79-kWh variant. The motor, mounted on the rear axle, powers the rear wheels and produces 282 HP and 380 Nm of torque. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 6.8 seconds. While most EVs limit their top speed to conserve battery, the XEV 9e reaches 202 km/h. We managed to hit 200 km/h on a high-speed track, although progress from 150-200 km/h was slow.

The vehicle features three drive modes: Range, Everyday, and Race. Range maximizes battery range, Everyday balances performance and efficiency, and Race unleashes more power at the cost of range. There are three regeneration modes, adjustable via the steering wheel. NVH levels are excellent, with Mahindra further reducing noise through acoustic dampening

The ARAI-certified range is about 656 km, but a realistic range of around 450 km is impressive. The battery supports fast charging, going from 20-80% in just 20 minutes with a 175 kW DC fast charger, though the availability of such chargers in India is uncertain. Despite the heavy battery pack, the suspension provides a comfort-oriented ride. Large bumps at high speeds are noticeable but don’t unsettle the car. Lower variants with 19-inch wheels might offer slightly better ride quality.

Handling is good, though there is some body roll. The car’s weight, low centre of gravity, and 20-inch wheels enhance handling dynamics. The semi-active suspension adjusts damping force in real time. Sudden directional changes are handled well, but this car isn’t designed for aggressive cornering. The steering system’s Variable Gear Ratio helps minimize steering effort during tight turns. Braking is predictable, with regenerative braking applied initially and mechanical brakes engaging when more force is needed.

The XEV 9e is a serious attempt by Mahindra to establish itself in the EV space. While the XUV400 was underwhelming, the 9e is a proper electric vehicle. On the safety front, the 9e boasts a 5-star crashworthiness rating, seven airbags, and UV protection glass that blocks 99.5% of UV rays. Mahindra has priced it aggressively and offers an unlimited battery warranty for the first owner with private registration, a move likely to reassure buyers. Mahindra has challenged global manufacturers and is poised to make waves in the EV industry. Meanwhile, Tata Motors is surely feeling the heat.