Mahindra launches XEV 9S, India’s first 3-row electric SUV with 679 km range | In pics

Exterior Design: The XEV 9S shares its silhouette with the XUV700 but adopts design elements seen on the XEV 9E and the earlier XUV.e8 concept. It features a closed grille, connected DRLs, triangular LED headlamps and a long bonnet. At the rear, the SUV uses smoked LED taillamps and a revised bumper. Mahindra’s butterfly emblem and aero-optimised wheels complete the model’s visual identity.

Dimensions Package: The SUV measures 1,745 mm in height and uses a 2,762 mm wheelbase, which is slightly longer than that of the XEV 9E. Overhangs of 915 mm at the front and 1,099 mm at the rear help maximise cabin space. With the third row folded, the boot offers 527 litres of capacity, while a 150-litre frunk is provided under the bonnet.

Interior Layout: Inside, the XEV 9S adopts a triple-screen arrangement spanning the dashboard, accompanied by two additional displays for second-row passengers. An openable panoramic sunroof is standard across variants. Higher trims include an augmented-reality head-up display, power-adjustable driver’s seat with memory, sliding and reclining second-row seats and BYOD functionality. The cabin configuration is a three-row layout with a 527-litre boot.

Cabin Features: Feature highlights include a Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos, multi-colour ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging and leatherette upholstery. The SUV offers powered Boss Mode, ventilated second-row seats, window sunshades and acoustic laminated glass. Convenience features extend to remote parking, a powered tailgate, toggle-style window controls, digital key with NFC and various connected-car functions.

Safety Systems: Safety equipment includes seven airbags and Level 2 ADAS supported by five radars and a vision camera. The Eyedentity system manages driver and occupant monitoring, including drowsiness detection. Secure360 Pro provides live views, recording capability and two-way communication. The SUV also includes hill-hold assist, electronic stability control, front and rear parking sensors and a 360-degree camera system.

Battery Options: Mahindra offers 59 kWh, 70 kWh and 79 kWh battery packs, each supporting 140–180 kW DC fast charging. ARAI-rated ranges are 521 km for 59 kWh, 600 km for 70 kWh and up to 679 km for 79 kWh variants. Home chargers of 7.2 kW and 11.2 kW are optional at ₹50,000 and ₹75,000. The 79 kWh pack claims a 500 km real-world driving range.

Motor Performance: The XEV 9S uses rear-wheel-drive motors producing 228 bhp, 241 bhp or 282 bhp, depending on the battery pack. Torque remains constant at 380 Nm across all versions. Mahindra claims a 0–100 kmph time of 7.9 seconds for the 228 bhp model and 7.0 seconds for the 282 bhp version. All variants reach a top speed of 202 kmph, making it the fastest seven-seat EV under ₹70 lakh.

Market Position: The XEV 9S enters the Indian market without a direct rival, as no other mass-market three-row electric SUV is currently available. The Kia Carens Clavis EV and BYD eMax 7 are positioned as three-row MPVs and therefore do not compete directly. Price overlap exists with the Tata Harrier EV. Mahindra expects the size, range options and seating configuration to define the XEV 9S’s segment.