Mahindra XEV 9S Electric SUV Launched at Rs 19.95 Lakh as India’s First Authentic 7-Seater EV
Nov, 27 2025
On November 27, 2025, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited rolled out the Mahindra XEV 9S — India’s first genuine electric-origin seven-seater SUV — during its 'Scream Electric' event in Mumbai. Priced from Rs 19.95 lakh (ex-showroom), the XEV 9S isn’t just another EV upgrade. It’s a bold statement: Mahindra is no longer adapting internal combustion platforms for electric power. This is a ground-up EV, built on the INGLO architecture, and it’s aiming squarely at families who want premium electric space without the premium price tag.
Why the XEV 9S Matters in India’s EV Race
India’s electric vehicle market has been dominated by compact hatchbacks and small SUVs. The XEV 9S flips that script. While rivals like Tata and Hyundai focus on five-seaters, Mahindra is betting big on the three-row family SUV segment — a space long ruled by diesel-powered vehicles like the XUV700. The XEV 9S doesn’t just match that; it exceeds it in key areas. With a 2,762mm wheelbase, 219mm ground clearance, and a 10.9-meter turning circle, it’s designed for Indian roads and parking chaos. The 79 kWh variant punches above its weight with 282 bhp and a 0–100 kmph time of just seven seconds — numbers you’d expect from a Rs 70 lakh Tesla Model Y, not a Rs 20 lakh SUV.
Performance, Range, and Practicality
Three battery options give buyers flexibility: 59 kWh (228 bhp), 70 kWh (241 bhp), and 79 kWh (282 bhp). All deliver a consistent 380 Nm of torque — a sweet spot for quick overtakes and highway cruising. Mahindra hasn’t released official range figures yet, but based on battery sizes and efficiency estimates, the top model should comfortably hit 500+ km on a single charge under ideal conditions. The boot space is smartly engineered: 394 liters with all seats up, expanding to 527 liters when the third row folds. There’s also a 150-liter frunk — rare in this segment — perfect for charging cables or groceries.
Inside, the XEV 9S feels like a luxury cabin. Ventilated second-row seats, dual-zone climate control, and leatherette upholstery elevate the experience. The Harman Kardon sound system, augmented reality head-up display, and an in-cabin camera that monitors driver drowsiness show Mahindra isn’t cutting corners. Even the ambient lighting responds to driving modes — blue for Eco, red for Sport. It’s these details that make the XEV 9S feel less like a utility vehicle and more like a premium family companion.
Design That Stands Out
Visually, the XEV 9S doesn’t look like a watered-down XUV700. The front end is unmistakably electric: a closed-off grille, connected DRLs, and triangular LED headlamps give it a futuristic, almost robotic character. The long bonnet and exaggerated rear overhang (1,099mm) hint at its EV architecture — no engine block means more space up front. At 1,745mm tall, it’s tall enough to command the road but not so bulky that it feels unwieldy. The 10.9-meter turning circle is a revelation — tighter than some hatchbacks — making city navigation surprisingly easy.
Who’s Buying This? And When?
Test drives start December 5, 2025. Bookings open January 14, 2026. Deliveries begin January 23, 2026. That’s a tight timeline, but Mahindra’s clearly preparing for demand. The XEV 9S targets upwardly mobile urban families — middle-class professionals who want zero emissions but refuse to sacrifice space, safety, or performance. It’s positioned as the electric twin to the XUV700, but with better tech, more power, and a cleaner footprint. And here’s the kicker: it’s Rs 1.95 lakh cheaper than the XEV 9e, despite being larger and more powerful. That pricing strategy could force competitors to rethink their EV ladder.
What’s Next for Mahindra’s EV Ecosystem
The XEV 9S joins the XEV 9e, BE 6, and XUV400 in Mahindra’s growing EV lineup. Together, they cover every major segment — from city commuters to premium SUVs. The company’s one-year anniversary of its Born EV platform wasn’t just a celebration. It was a launchpad. With the INGLO architecture now proven, Mahindra can scale faster. Expect more seven-seaters, maybe even electric pickups or commercial vans in the next 18 months.
What’s missing? Fast-charging network support. Mahindra hasn’t detailed its partnership with charging providers yet. And while the tech is impressive, real-world reliability of the ADAS system — especially in chaotic Indian traffic — remains untested. But for now, the XEV 9S feels like the most complete, thoughtful EV Mahindra has ever built.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the XEV 9S compare to the Tesla Model Y in India?
While the Tesla Model Y starts around Rs 40 lakh in India, the XEV 9S delivers similar performance — 282 bhp, 0–100 kmph in seven seconds, and a 200 kmph top speed — at less than half the price. It also offers a 7-seater layout, which the Model Y doesn’t. However, Tesla’s Supercharger network and software updates still have an edge. The XEV 9S wins on value and practicality; Tesla wins on ecosystem.
Is the XEV 9S suitable for long-distance travel in India?
With a claimed 500+ km range on the 79 kWh battery and a 150-liter frunk for essentials, the XEV 9S is one of the few EVs in India built for highway trips. But charging infrastructure remains patchy outside major cities. Mahindra needs to partner with charging networks aggressively. For now, owners should plan routes carefully, especially for trips beyond 300 km.
Why is the XEV 9S cheaper than the XEV 9e despite being larger?
Mahindra is using economies of scale and shared INGLO architecture to reduce costs. The XEV 9S shares core components like motors and battery cells with the XEV 9e, but benefits from higher production volumes and simplified trim levels. The Rs 1.95 lakh price difference isn’t a mistake — it’s a strategic move to make seven-seater EVs accessible, not just aspirational.
What safety features does the XEV 9S include?
The XEV 9S comes with advanced ADAS including multiple radars, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Top trims add a drowsiness detector and in-cabin camera for driver monitoring. It’s one of the most safety-equipped EVs in its class, though official NCAP ratings aren’t out yet. Mahindra has historically scored well in crash tests, so expectations are high.
Will the XEV 9S qualify for government EV subsidies?
Yes. As a battery-electric vehicle under Rs 25 lakh, it qualifies for the FAME II subsidy of up to Rs 1.5 lakh. Buyers may also benefit from state-level incentives in Delhi, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. After subsidies, the effective price could dip below Rs 18.5 lakh — making it one of the most affordable seven-seater EVs globally.
How does the XEV 9S impact Mahindra’s market position?
The XEV 9S transforms Mahindra from a follower to a leader in the premium EV segment. With this launch, it now offers EVs across all key categories — compact, midsize, and now full-size seven-seaters. It also signals confidence in the INGLO platform, potentially reducing future development costs. Competitors like Tata and Hyundai now face pressure to match this level of performance, space, and tech at a competitive price.