Mahindra XEV 9e

The face is characterized by daytime running lamps that start low down on the bumper, extend all the way across the bonnet, and then dip back down. The main LED headlights are positioned lower down, while the grille is concealed, with cooling requirements met by a passage at the bumper’s base. On the bonnet, Mahindra’s new Infinity logo is prominently displayed, marking its electric vehicle lineup. Lift the bonnet, and you’ll find a 150-litre frunk, spacious enough to accommodate a few soft bags with ease.

From the side, the XEV 9e showcases its substantial size. At over 4.7 meters, it is slightly longer than the XUV700. Standard 19-inch rims (20 inches optional) add to its commanding presence, while the gloss finish on the wheel arches and the base of the doors highlights the battery pack’s position.

Offering 207mm of unladen ground clearance (218mm from the lowest point of the battery pack) and a wheelbase 25mm longer than the XUV700’s, the 2,775mm figure is one to note. Flush-fitting front door handles, rear door handles on the C-pillar, and a coupe-style sloping roofline distinguish the 9e’s silhouette. At the rear, a high deck tail, full-width LED lighting, and powered tailgate with gesture control further add to its striking design. The tailgate reveals a 663-litre luggage compartment, deep but not particularly tall due to the space-saver spare tyre and rear-axle motor underneath.

The interior space and comfort are equally noteworthy. Doors that open 90 degrees make ingress and egress a breeze. The cabin’s highlight is a modern three-screen setup, including digital dials, a center touchscreen, and a passenger screen. A two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated logo and touch-sensitive buttons adds sophistication, though the touch buttons could be more intuitive. Physical switches for features like regen levels and boost function offer better usability.

Front seats are electrically adjustable with memory and lumbar support, and the ventilation feature, though controlled via the touchscreen, adds comfort. Storage solutions include a wireless charging bay, two USB-C ports, cup holders, and door bottle holders. However, the absence of under-console storage, common in EVs, is noticeable. Material quality is commendable, but piano black elements and light upholstery may require extra care. Rear visibility is somewhat restricted due to large rear headrests.

Rear-seat comfort stands out in the XEV 9e. The seating position avoids the usual knees-up posture common in EVs with battery packs under the floor. Legroom is generous, with a boss mode feature allowing the front passenger seat to be moved forward. The flat floor enhances comfort for the middle passenger, while reclining backrests and sunshades improve the experience. Headroom is adequate for average-sized adults but might feel cramped for taller occupants. Features like a foldable center armrest, rear AC vents, wireless charging, and a tablet mount with a dedicated 65W charging slot further enhance convenience.

Tech and features take center stage in the 9e. Mahindra’s MAIA architecture supports a host of advanced features. The 12.3-inch digital dials display vibrant graphics, from maps to ADAS feeds, while a sophisticated head-up display with augmented reality adds convenience. The central touchscreen is responsive and feature-rich but suffers from a cluttered UI/UX. While some apps, like those for video streaming, work seamlessly, others feel unnecessary. The touchscreen also controls key functions like drive modes and climate settings, which could be more user-friendly.

A roof-mounted camera, part of the DOMS (Driver and Occupant Monitoring System), adds safety and utility, doubling as a security feature or selfie camera. Ambient lighting options and a glass roof with customizable effects enhance the cabin’s ambience. The 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos is a highlight, delivering an immersive audio experience. An additional feature also includes a passenger touchscreen.

Under the hood, the XEV 9e is a born electric SUV based on Mahindra’s Inglo skateboard architecture. It offers two battery options: a 59kWh pack with a 542km MIDC range and a 79kWh pack boasting 656km MIDC or 533km WLTP range. Charging options include 7.2kW and 11kW AC chargers (sold separately) and up to 175kW DC fast charging, enabling a 20-80% charge in just 20 minutes. The 59kWh version delivers 231hp, while the 79kWh variant produces 286hp, with 380Nm torque for both. The 79kWh version achieves 0-100km/h in 7.2 seconds and offers a smooth, quiet ride.

Safety is a priority in the XEV 9e. It comes equipped with seven airbags, ABS, ESC, hill hold assist, and a suite of ADAS features. Functions like Lane Keep Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control are well-calibrated for Indian roads, while Attention Assist ensures driver alertness. 

Three drive modes and a Boost function cater to varying driving styles, while semi-active dampers ensure a comfortable ride. The XEV 9e handles well, with minimal body roll, good grip, and responsive steering, making it agile despite its size. Braking is effective, with three regen levels and a one-pedal driving mode.