The Mahindra XEV 9S represents a bold step into the electric vehicle segment, showcasing significant design evolutions—and here's where it becomes really intriguing. Its exterior and interior have undergone noticeable changes that not only update its visual appeal but also hint at possible design directions for future models like the upcoming XUV700 facelift. Want to discover what sets this vehicle apart? Let’s dive into a detailed look.
Exterior Profile and Design Highlights
On observing the XEV 9S from the side, it’s immediately clear that it shares its silhouette with the popular XUV700. Its wheelbase measures 2,762 mm, which is 12 mm longer than the XUV700’s, but 13 mm shorter than the XEV 9e, the other electric variant. The ground clearance is 201 mm, making it well-suited for diverse Indian driving conditions, especially rough or uneven roads.
Measuring 4,737 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,747 mm in height, the XEV 9S commands a strong visual presence on the street. Its bold front grille design adds to its commanding look, making it stand out.
In terms of build quality, the vehicle feels sturdy, and it doesn’t give off a flimsy impression. However, during the media drive, we did notice some inconsistencies—such as uneven panel gaps across different units—which is not typical of Mahindra’s reputation for quality. These details matter, especially when you’re investing in a premium electric vehicle.
Under the hood, the car features a sizable 150-litre front trunk (frunk), offering ample space for miscellaneous items, with a maximum load capacity of 60 kg. For additional utility, the floor of the frunk can be lifted to reveal extra storage, expanding your possibilities.
Equipped with 18-inch wheels paired with 235/60 section tires, the wheels appear proportionate to the vehicle’s size, contributing to its commanding street presence. The windows are treated with UV protection and noise-reducing features, which help keep the interior cool and quieter—a big plus for comfort.
At the rear, the SUV features a space-saver spare wheel stored underneath, covered in plastic, and complemented by underbody cladding to improve aerodynamics—an essential design element for efficiency.
Interior Experience and Features
Stepping inside the cabin, the design immediately feels familiar to those who have seen the XEV 9e; it’s essentially a refreshed version with a new color scheme. The overall layout is an evolution of the XUV700 interior, making controls intuitive for owners familiar with Mahindra’s interface.
Front seat comfort is noteworthy with plush leather upholstery, offering good support and a premium feel. The seats are well-cushioned with notable side bolstering, making them suitable for spirited driving or navigating twisty roads. Ventilation for the front seats is also available, enhancing comfort during hot days.
The dashboard features a modern touchscreen infotainment system that allows access to numerous functions, including vehicle information such as navigation, ADAS data, and energy flow—crucial for electric vehicle management. There's a digital instrument cluster (MID) that displays all this information clearly.
The buttons and controls include many touchscreen-operated features, including drive mode selection. Unfortunately, climate control lacks dedicated physical buttons, relying solely on the touchscreen, which may feel less convenient. However, preset climate options and scheduling are available to tailor your comfort.
For added safety and convenience, the car includes a 360-degree camera setup with a transparent view feature, allowing drivers to see what’s underneath the vehicle. Note that this is a partial, non-live feed. The vehicle also boasts a panoramic sunroof bringing in natural light, along with ambient lighting that runs throughout the interior, creating a cozy atmosphere.
In the rear, the middle row offers sliding and reclining options, with individual headrests—perfect for customizing passenger comfort. In the photo, Ajmat, who’s 6 feet tall, shows that he has decent legroom behind the driver’s seat, though the under-thigh support could be better. The rear floor is flat, benefiting overall comfort, and ventilation for rear passengers is included.
However, the back seats are designed more for short trips or children, especially in the third row. Entry and exit are challenging, and the third row itself is not highly suitable for adults—headroom is tight, and the floor height limits comfort, making it ideal for kids or short journeys.
Additionally, some interior fit-and-finish issues, such as poorly aligned C and D pillar panels, were observed, indicating room for improvement. The absence of a powered tailgate, unlike some rivals like the Harrier EV, and limited luggage space with all seats up, means you’ll be packing light for longer trips. Folding the last row of seats expands the boot to a 500-litre capacity, with a flat floor when the middle row is folded down, enhancing versatility.
Interested in a deeper analysis? You can read the full detailed review on Team-BHP here.
And here’s where it gets controversial: Will Mahindra’s focus on style and feature-rich interiors be enough to compete with more refined or premium electric SUVs? Or are those fit-and-finish concerns a sign of growing pains at Mahindra’s electric division? Share your thoughts below—do you agree or see things differently?
