Mahindra XEV 9e – Top 5 Insights From Our Test Drive Experience

The Mahindra XEV 9e, one of the newest electric SUVs in India, is turning heads with its futuristic design, impressive technology, and long-range capabilities. Priced around ₹30 lakh, this SUV-coupe is designed for urban families and EV enthusiasts alike. Here are the key takeaways from our first drive of this much-anticipated electric vehicle.

Effortless Driving Experience

Driving the XEV 9e is a breeze, offering smooth acceleration and intuitive handling:

• Linear Acceleration: The XEV 9e delivers smooth power delivery, with no sudden bursts of speed, making it ideal for drivers transitioning to EVs.
• Three Drive Modes:
  • Range Mode: Prioritizes efficiency.
  • Everyday Mode: Offers a balanced driving experience.
  • Race Mode: Adds a sporty punch but may require some acclimatization for new EV drivers.
• Brake-by-Wire Technology: Consistent braking performance across modes, with one of the best pedal calibrations we’ve seen in an EV.

Bold Road Presence

The XEV 9e strikes a balance between futuristic styling and subtle elegance:

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• SUV-Coupe Styling: A growing trend that enhances aerodynamics and aesthetics.
• Sharp Connected LED DRLs: Featuring a welcome and goodbye animation.
• Illuminated Mahindra Logo: Adds a modern touch to the front fascia.
• Subtle Yet Bold Design: Unlike the attention-grabbing BE 6, the XEV 9e maintains a refined look that appeals to families.

Premium Interiors

The cabin is a mix of upmarket materials and tech, but the color choice may pose challenges:

• Luxurious Design: Soft-touch leatherette padding, gloss black inserts, and a stylish 2-spoke steering wheel elevate the cabin’s premium appeal.
• Spacious Layout: Comfortable seating with ample legroom and headroom.
• Off-White Cabin Theme: While airy and elegant, maintaining cleanliness in Indian conditions might be challenging.

Packed with Features

The XEV 9e is loaded with features, offering unmatched tech in its segment:

• Three 12.3-Inch Screens: Includes a digital driver’s display, infotainment system, and a front passenger display.
• OTT Platform Support: Apps like Google Meet, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube integrate seamlessly.
• 16-Speaker Harman Kardon Sound System: Premium audio quality for audiophiles.
• Glass Roof and In-Car Camera: Adds openness and tech-savvy convenience.
• Exclusive Apps:
  • GrooveMe: Syncs interior and exterior lighting to music.
  • LiveYourMood: Customizes ambient lighting, seat settings, and A.R. Rahman-composed music.

While the feature set is comprehensive, such complexity may lead to reliability concerns over time.

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Long-Range Capabilities

The XEV 9e is India’s first true long-range EV, boasting a real-world range of 500 km:

• 79 kWh Battery Pack: Achieves long-range efficiency with BYD’s Blade Battery technology.
• Fast Charging: Charges from 20% to 80% in just 20 minutes, ideal for long trips.

Even during our test drive, an 80 km run consumed only 15% of the battery, showcasing its impressive efficiency.

The Mahindra XEV 9e is a game-changer in the Indian electric SUV market. It combines effortless drivability, premium features, and long-range capabilities with futuristic styling. While some aspects, like the light-colored interiors, could be better, the overall package makes it a strong contender in the ₹30 lakh EV segment.

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