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Mahindra has finally introduced the all-new XEV 9S, and it’s already generating massive curiosity among SUV and EV buyers. Positioned close to the XEV 9E and carrying visible inspiration from the XUV700, this new electric SUV aims to bring advanced technology, family practicality, and strong battery capabilities into a single package.
In this detailed first look review, we explore its exterior, interior, space, technology, battery specs, and everything that makes the XEV 9S an interesting addition to India’s EV landscape.
Bold Front Design With Smart Functional Highlights
At first glance, the XEV 9S has a strong resemblance to the XEV 9E — not just in its name but also in its design philosophy. The front fascia gets:
Full LED headlights
Connected daytime running lamps (DRLs)
ADAS Level 2 hardware, including a radar neatly integrated in the lower bumper
Six parking sensors, enabling an auto-park function
One of the most practical elements at the front is the 150-litre frunk — the largest in its segment. Electric vehicles often lack usable storage in the engine bay, but Mahindra has maximized this space effectively.
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Side Profile: Familiar Yet Modern :
From the side, the resemblance to the XUV700 is unmistakable. Mahindra has retained a bold SUV stance while adding subtle EV-centric touches:
18-inch alloy wheels tuned for comfort
Tinted glass to reduce cabin heat
Flush door handles for a premium look
Generous ground clearance, ensuring capability on rougher Indian roads
The tinted glass is an important improvement over the XUV700, which was often criticized for excess sunlight entering the cabin.
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Rear Design: Clean and Stylish :
The rear continues the clean EV-inspired theme. Key highlights include:
A new black panel with updated badging
Gloss black inserts across the bumper
Six rear parking sensors
A manual tailgate, and a compact but usable boot
The seats can be fully folded to enhance cargo capacity, though the primary luggage room isn’t as large as a typical non-EV SUV.
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Second-Row Experience: Comfort Elevated :
Moving inside, the second row feels premium and thoughtfully designed. Passengers get:
Good knee room
Adequate headroom
Comfortable thigh support
Ventilated second-row seats, which is rare in this segment
Sliding second-row seats to free up additional third-row space
Sunblinds, which were missing in the XUV700
Rear AC vents
Wireless charging pad
Two 65W fast-charging ports
This is a genuinely family-friendly row, and the sliding seats add flexibility when carrying more passengers.
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Third Row: Usable but Best for Kids :
The third row is improved compared to earlier Mahindra three-row setups but still best suited for shorter occupants. With the second row moved ahead:
Knee room becomes acceptable
Headroom remains limited, especially for adults
Thigh support is minimal
Access is easy thanks to single-touch tumble function
A fire extinguisher is included, as required in EVs
The only notable omission is adjustability from the third row; passengers cannot slide the second row themselves.
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A Feature-Loaded Cabin With Three Large Displays
The interior is where the XEV 9S truly stands out.
Three-screen layout
The cabin houses:
1. A fully digital instrument cluster
2. A large central infotainment display
3. A dedicated passenger entertainment screen
Additionally, there is a large AR-based heads-up display, which uses a dedicated camera to read the driver’s eye level and position the visuals accordingly.
Infotainment and Tech:
Good-quality touchscreen with multiple menus
Good-quality touchscreen with multiple menus
A rich feature set (though slightly overwhelming at first)
Ambient lighting
Theater mode that allows simultaneous video playback on two screens
No hotspot required for internal video streaming
A sunroof that opens, unlike many fixed-glass setups in EVs
Comfort and Storage:
Wide, supportive leatherette seats with ventilation
Electric adjustment for both driver and co-driver
Gloss black center console (premium but prone to scratches)
Wireless charging, Type-C ports, cup holders
A cooled armrest with sliding function
Large dual-tier glovebox
Built-in connection point for dashcam integration
16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Overall, the cabin feels premium, well-built, and packed with tech that genuinely enhances the in-car experience.
Battery Options, Charging & Warranty :
Mahindra offers three battery pack options with the XEV 9S:
● 59 kWh pack
Estimated real-world range: 400–450 km
● 70 kWh pack (new)
Estimated real-world range: 450–500 km
● 79 kWh pack
Estimated real-world range: 500–550 km
Battery Chemistry
The XEV 9S uses LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) chemistry with BYD Blade cell technology, offering:
Higher reliability
Better longevity
Safer thermal characteristics
Warranty
15-year warranty for first owner
10-year battery warranty for second owner
This is among the highest warranties offered on EV batteries in India.
Charging
Maximum DC fast charging rate: 175 kW
Real-world expected charge speeds on common chargers: ~90 kW, due to its 400V architecture
While 175 kW chargers are rare, the SUV is still capable of quick charging wherever higher-speed chargers are available.
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Verdict: A Feature-Packed, Family-Friendly Electric SUV:
The Mahindra XEV 9S stands out with:
A futuristic and practical interior
Strong battery technology
High-speed charging potential
Impressive comfort and flexibility
Premium tech, including a three-screen layout and AR head-up display
Improved seating practicality across all three rows
While the third row is not ideal for tall adults and the boot space is modest, the XEV 9S delivers a compelling overall package for families transitioning to a feature-rich electric SUV.
Mahindra’s push into future-ready EVs is clearly visible here, and the XEV 9S is likely to become one of the most talked-about electric SUVs in the Indian market.
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