Mahindra XEV 9S: Master of all trades for the electric age

This article is an advertorial. Mahindra’s push into electric mobility is clearly gaining pace, and the XEV 9S is one of the most important models in that journey so far. It joins the brand’s EV line-up as India’s first mass-market, three-row electric SUV and sits as the seven-seat alternative to the XEV 9E. But to look at it simply as a stretched version would be missing the point. The XEV 9S has been developed as a proper family-focused electric SUV, built around space, comfort and everyday usability, while still delivering on performance and technology.

In many ways, it fills a gap that has existed in the EV space for a while now. Buyers who need proper seven-seat capability have had limited options, and Mahindra addresses that here without asking customers to compromise on range, features or driving experience. So what exactly does the XEV 9S bring to the table?

One look at the XEV 9S and it’s clear that Mahindra has gone for a design that feels reassuringly familiar. While it shares its electric underpinnings with the XEV 9E, the 9S adopts a more upright, conventional SUV stance. In fact, it feels closer in character to the XUV700, which should work well for buyers moving from ICE vehicles to an EV.

At the front, the signature LED DRL light bar immediately stands out, while the closed-off grille completes its electric identity. Besides that, it also features a repositioned Mahindra logo, revised bumper and an overall look that looks purposeful rather than flashy. From the side, the proportions look well judged. The roofline tapers gently, prioritising interior space over aggressive styling, and the 18-inch aero-optimised alloy wheels that lend it an aggressive look. The rear design follows the same theme: simple, neat and unlikely to divide opinions.

Inside, the focus on space and usability becomes obvious. Being a seven-seater, smart packaging is crucial, and Mahindra seems to have put real thought into this. With the third row folded down, the XEV 9S offers over 520 litres of boot space, which is more than enough for weekend trips and more.

Even with all three rows in use, it remains practical for daily chores. What adds real value, though, is the frunk. With around 150 litres of storage up front, it’s ideal for charging cables, backpacks or smaller bags, making life easier when travelling with a full load of passengers.

The interior layout will feel familiar if you’ve seen the XEV 9E, but the XEV 9S raises the bar when it comes to standard equipment. Even the base variant comes with Mahindra’s triple-screen setup, made up of three 12.3-inch displays spanning the width of the dashboard. This includes a digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment screen and a dedicated passenger display, giving the cabin a distinctly tech-forward feel.

Besides that, it also gets Mahindra’s Skyroof panoramic sunroof, which is offered as standard across variants. It brings in plenty of light and makes the cabin feel airier, especially for second- and third-row occupants, while also adding to the upmarket feel.

Mahindra has packed the XEV 9S with technology that feels very relevant. You get wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard, and the Adrenox connected car platform allows users to access key vehicle functions remotely. Features like live vehicle tracking, geofencing and over-the-air updates ensure the SUV stays updated well into the future.

There’s also the 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos, which is yet another standout feature. Sound quality is rich and immersive, and importantly, it’s well distributed across all three rows.Comfort is clearly a priority for this electric SUV. The front seats are supportive, well cushioned and ventilated, which makes a noticeable difference in hot conditions. The boss mode function allows rear passengers to adjust the front passenger seat electrically, adding a touch of convenience on longer journeys.The middle row is where the XEV 9S really shines. There’s plenty of legroom and under-thigh support, along with good headroom. Ventilated seats, adjustable backrests, rear AC vents, USB Type-C fast charging ports and tablet holders as part of the ‘Bring Your Own Device’ entertainment system make this a genuinely comfortable place to spend time. The 60:40 split seats can slide and recline, further enhancing flexibility.

The third row is well thought out too. Entry is straightforward thanks to the one-touch tumble function. AC vents, cup holders and charging points make it more usable than what’s usually expected in this segment.

Underneath, the XEV 9S is built on Mahindra’s INGLO platform and comes with three battery options: 59 kWh, 70 kWh and 79 kWh. This wide spread allows buyers to choose what suits their driving needs best. The range-topping version produces around 280 hp and 380 Nm of torque.

Range is another strong point. With a claimed figure of up to 679 km on a full charge, the XEV 9S makes range anxiety largely irrelevant for most users. Add to that DC fast charging support of up to 180 kW, which can take the battery from 20 to 80 percent in just 20 minutes. This, surely, will become a boon for long-distance travel.On the move, the SUV feels smooth and easy to drive. Instant torque delivers quick acceleration, while multiple drive modes allow drivers to switch between efficiency and performance depending on the situation. Despite its size, the XEV 9S feels stable and composed, with suspension tuning that favours comfort without feeling soft.Mahindra’s electric strategy is also shaped by its ‘Scream Electric’ celebration, which goes beyond positioning EVs as just efficient or eco-friendly alternatives. It also underlines a crucial link between its electric racing programme and the technology seen in its electric SUVs. Having competed in Formula E since 2014, Mahindra Racing has been operating at the top of electric performance, efficiency and energy management. The learnings from racing at the world’s highest level are steadily influencing Mahindra’s electric road cars.

Alongside, Mahindra also revealed its new-generation Formula E challenger, set to hit the track from the start of the 2025–26 season, proudly representing India as the championship’s only Indian team.

Safety remains a key focus

Safety has clearly been a priority in the development of the XEV 9S. Mahindra has equipped the SUV with a comprehensive Level 2+ ADAS setup, using a combination of radars, cameras and sensors to support features such as adaptive cruise control, lane assist, autonomous emergency braking and traffic sign recognition. The safety tech also includes features such as a 360-degree camera, Auto Park Assist and an augmented reality-based head-up display. The package is further strengthened by essentials such as blind spot detection, driver drowsiness alert, high-beam assist and a tyre pressure monitoring system, delivering a well-rounded safety net for everyday and long-distance driving alike.

Priced from Rs 19.95 lakh, the XEV 9S offers a package that aces everything including space, range, technology and comfort. It manages to match, and in some cases exceed, what many higher-priced SUVs offer. More importantly, it feels like a product that has been designed with Indian families firmly in mind.It’s a thoughtfully put-together package that ticks the right boxes for buyers looking to make the shift to electric mobility without giving up on practicality or comfort.