Mahindra’s electric vehicle strategy has been evolving rapidly, and the XEV 9S stands as one of the most significant milestones in that transition. Conceived as the all-electric sibling of the XUV700, the 9S is far more than an electrified version of an existing SUV. Built on Mahindra’s INGLO skateboard architecture, it has been engineered from the ground up to be a spacious, tech-forward, premium family EV. It also previews several technological and interior upgrades that are likely to shape the upcoming XUV700 facelift. With its three-row layout, extensive features and refined engineering, the XEV 9S is aimed squarely at families wanting to move to electric mobility without sacrificing practicality or comfort. After spending meaningful time with the vehicle, we can finally answer whether it lives up to that promise.
Exteriors
Visually, the XEV 9S has a sense of familiarity when you look at it from the rear. The upright posture, the tail-lamp design and the tailgate silhouette bear an unmistakable resemblance to the XUV700. This is not a coincidence; Mahindra clearly wanted the 9S to inherit the recognisable, family-friendly proportions of its ICE counterpart. But swing around to the front and the transformation is immediate. The face adopts Mahindra’s evolving EV identity with a sleek, full-width LED DRL signature and a smooth, closed-off fascia that instantly communicates its electric nature. Subtle EV-specific touches around the bumper and lower air intake give the SUV a futuristic character without going over the top.
The side profile continues with the familiar XUV700-like silhouette, complete with solid shoulders, a long wheelbase and a well-balanced stance. However, the 9S distinguishes itself through smoother surfacing and cleaner panel transitions. The EV-focused design cues are more cohesively integrated, giving the SUV a more refined presence on the road. Compared to the more flamboyant styling of the XEV 9e, the 9S feels like the more sensible and mature alternative—crafted with families and long-distance usability in mind rather than dramatic visual impact.
Interiors
Step into the cabin and the influence of the XUV700’s layout is recognisable, but everything has been elevated to a far more modern and premium level. The centrepiece is undoubtedly the triple 12.3-inch screen arrangement that stretches almost the width of the dashboard. The passenger display is entertainment-oriented and supports OTT apps and YouTube, turning long journeys into a more engaging experience for those up front. Meanwhile, the central infotainment screen and digital instrument cluster manage all vehicle controls and drive information through Mahindra’s latest, polished software interface.
The improvement in software fluidity is noticeable. Menus respond immediately, transitions are slick and during our time with the SUV, there were no stutters or system slowdowns—something that earlier Mahindra systems occasionally struggled with. Cabin materials also reflect a clear move upmarket. Soft-touch surfaces, layered textures and a more premium choice of trims combine to create a sophisticated environment.
Where the XEV 9S truly excels is the second row. Space is generous and the comfort levels are excellent, helped by well-cushioned seats and ample under-thigh support. The top-end model takes luxury to another level with dual rear entertainment screens, foldable tray tables, ventilated second-row seats, sunblinds, rear AC vents and wireless charging pads. The seating height remains natural, despite the large battery underneath, avoiding the knees-up posture that plagues many electric SUVs.
The third row is usable, but with limitations. While headroom and legroom are decent, the low seat base means adults will find themselves sitting in a knees-up position. It’s a practical row for kids or short-distance usage, but not ideal for longer journeys. Folding the third row frees up substantial luggage space, and the addition of a 150-litre frunk elevates practicality to a new level, easily accommodating a cabin suitcase and backpack.
Tech
Technology is one of the 9S’s strongest suits. The triple-screen setup, connected car features, fast wireless charging, advanced cabin entertainment options and the updated UI collectively make the SUV feel properly modern. The passenger display—rare in this segment—adds a luxury-car flavour. Mahindra has clearly worked on ironing out software issues from past models, resulting in one of its most responsive systems yet.
Safety
The XEV 9S benefits from Mahindra’s improved ADAS Level 2 package, which now feels more appropriately calibrated for Indian traffic behavior. The system maintains a reassuring balance, neither overly intrusive nor confused by chaotic surroundings. Features include lane centering, adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert and a surround camera system. The increased glass area and larger rear window significantly improve visibility, which is a welcome upgrade over the 9e and the BE6.
Specifications
Mechanically, the 9S shares its underpinnings with the XEV 9e. The model we tested uses the 79kWh battery paired with a rear-mounted motor generating 210kW (281bhp) and 380Nm. This setup yields brisk acceleration and strong mid-range performance, making the 9S one of the most powerful three-row electric SUVs currently on sale in India. The rear-wheel-drive configuration also contributes to more natural driving dynamics. Expect a drive range of 500kms on single charge from this one.
Drive & handling
Mahindra has tuned the XEV 9S distinctly toward comfort and it shows. With adaptive dampers smoothing out bumps and undulations, the SUV offers a noticeably plusher ride than the XEV 9e. Despite its size, the 9S feels stable and composed at highway speeds, and body roll is well contained for a seven-seater EV. Steering feel remains predictable and consistent, making the SUV easy to maneuver in both city and highway environments. Cabin insulation is superb—road noise and wind noise remain impressively low, resulting in one of the quietest cabins Mahindra has delivered so far. Regenerative braking levels and drive modes give drivers flexibility to tailor the driving experience.
Verdict
The Mahindra XEV 9S positions itself as a well-rounded electric family SUV that bridges practicality, comfort and technology in a way few EVs in India currently do. If style and five-seat versatility are your priorities, the XEV 9e continues to be the attractive option. But if you need genuine seven-seat usability, enhanced comfort, segment-leading features and a refined electric drive experience, the 9S emerges as the more compelling choice. Despite the third-row limitations, the overall package—massive frunk storage, second-row comfort, range, quiet cabin and premium tech—makes the Mahindra XEV 9S one of the most complete electric family SUVs available in the country today.
