I've been watching the Indian EV space closely, and every now and then, a launch comes along that feels like a genuine turning point. Well, it looks like Mahindra has just delivered one of those moments. They've officially pulled the covers off the Mahindra XEV 9S, their ambitious entry into the three-row electric SUV segment. Think of it as the electric soulmate to the wildly popular XUV700, but with a whole lot more tech and futuristic flair.
Key Highlights
- ✓ The Mahindra XEV 9S launches as a three-row electric SUV with a starting price of Rs 19.95 lakh.
- ✓ It offers three battery choices, including a massive 79 kWh battery pack on top-tier models.
- ✓ The top variant boasts a powerful 282 bhp motor, capable of a 0-100 kmph sprint in just seven seconds.
- ✓ It's packed with high-end tech like a futuristic three-screen dashboard and Level 2+ ADAS.
- ✓ The XEV 9S is positioned to directly compete with the Kia Carens Clavis EV in the 7-seater market.
With a starting price of Rs 19.95 lakh (ex-showroom), this isn't just another EV—it's a statement. Mahindra is clearly aiming to blend family-friendly space with performance and luxury features that you'd typically expect from cars with a much heftier price tag. It's a bold move, and it's set to shake things up, especially for its direct rival, the Kia Carens Clavis EV.
A Glimpse into the Future: Design and First Impressions
The first thing that strikes you about the XEV 9S is its design. Mahindra has gone all-in on their new electric design language, and it looks sharp. The front features a clean, shut-off grille—a signature of modern EVs—flanked by striking L-shaped LED DRLs and vertically stacked projector headlamps. A full-width LED light bar connects everything, giving it a commanding presence on the road.
It’s the little details that really sell the futuristic vibe. The flush-fitted door handles give the sides a sleek, uninterrupted look, while the aero-optimized wheels not only look cool but also help with efficiency. It’s clear that this isn’t just an XUV700 with a battery slapped in; it’s a ground-up reimagining of what a Mahindra SUV can be. Now, for those eager to get behind the wheel, test drives are set to begin on December 5. Bookings officially open on January 14, but here's the interesting part: deliveries are slated for January 23, 2026. Yes, you read that right—2026. It’s a bit of a wait, but it suggests Mahindra is planning something big.
Performance That Packs a Punch
Let's talk about what’s under the skin, because this is where the XEV 9S truly starts to impress. Mahindra is offering three distinct battery pack options, which is a smart move to cater to different budgets and needs. The range starts with a 59 kWh unit that produces a very respectable 228 bhp. Step up to the new 70 kWh setup, and you're looking at 241 bhp. But the real star of the show is the top-of-the-line 79 kWh pack, which churns out a massive 282 bhp.
What's fascinating is that regardless of the battery size, all versions deliver a hefty 380 Nm of torque. This translates to some serious acceleration. Mahindra claims the top-spec model can rocket from 0 to 100 kmph in just seven seconds, with a top speed of 200 kmph. These aren't just good numbers for a family SUV; they're numbers that put the XEV 9S in the territory of premium performance EVs.
A Cabin Built for the Modern Age
Step inside, and it's clear the futuristic theme continues. The dashboard is dominated by a stunning three-screen layout that looks like it was plucked from a concept car. It’s a tech-lover’s dream, providing all the information and entertainment you could possibly need. But the tech doesn't stop there. Second-row passengers get their own screens, ensuring everyone stays entertained on long journeys.
The feature list is seriously extensive. We're talking about a massive panoramic sunroof, a powered tailgate, and dynamic ambient lighting to set the mood. For the audiophiles, there’s a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system with Dolby Atmos. Comfort is also a top priority, with reclining second-row seats that are also ventilated—a feature you rarely see outside of ultra-luxury cars. Practical touches like a 394-litre boot, a 150-litre frunk (front trunk), and a tight 10.9-metre turning circle make it a genuinely usable family vehicle.
The Big Showdown: XEV 9S vs. Kia Carens Clavis EV
No car exists in a vacuum, and the Mahindra XEV 9S has a clear rival in its sights: the Kia Carens Clavis EV. Both are gunning for the 7-seater electric crown, but they're taking different approaches. The Kia starts at a more accessible Rs 17.99 lakh and tops out at Rs 24.49 lakh, making it the more budget-conscious choice.
When you look at the specs, the differences become even clearer. The Carens Clavis EV offers two battery options: a 42 kWh pack with a 404 km ARAI-certified range and a 51.4 kWh pack with a 490 km range. These are decent numbers, but they can't match the sheer power and capacity of Mahindra’s larger 70 kWh and 79 kWh batteries. The Kia’s motors produce 99 kW and 126 kW, which is significantly less than the 170 kW to 210 kW offered by the XEV 9S.
Feature Face-Off
Inside, the battle of the features continues. The Kia Carens Clavis EV is no slouch, offering a 26.62-inch dual panoramic display, an 8-speaker Bose audio system, 64-colour ambient lighting, and ventilated front seats. It’s a very well-equipped cabin that builds on the success of its internal combustion engine sibling.
However, the Mahindra XEV 9S seems to take things to another level. Its three-screen layout, 16-speaker Harman Kardon system, and unique comforts like ventilated second-row seats and powered Boss Mode give it a more premium, almost luxurious feel. The choice really comes down to what you prioritize: Kia offers fantastic value and a proven package, while Mahindra is pushing the boundaries of performance and in-cabin technology for the segment.
Safety and Next-Gen Tech
A family SUV needs to be safe, and Mahindra has loaded the XEV 9S with an impressive suite of safety features. It offers up to seven airbags, including a knee airbag for the driver. But the headline feature is the Level 2+ ADAS (Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems), which uses multiple radars for functions like blind view monitoring and intelligent emergency braking. This is a huge step forward for safety in this segment.
Higher variants also get something called Secure360 Pro. This is a live vehicle surveillance system that you can access through a connected app on your phone. It even has an in-cabin camera that supports live monitoring. It's the kind of peace-of-mind tech that modern car buyers are increasingly looking for, adding another layer of security and convenience to the ownership experience.
Conclusion
The bottom line is this: the Mahindra XEV 9S is more than just a new electric car. It's a bold and ambitious move that signals a massive leap forward for the Indian EV market. By combining a spacious three-row layout with incredible performance, a truly futuristic interior, and a suite of advanced safety features, Mahindra has created a vehicle that aims to punch well above its weight class.
While the Kia Carens Clavis EV presents a compelling, value-oriented alternative, the XEV 9S is clearly targeting a buyer who wants it all—performance, luxury, and cutting-edge tech—without the luxury price tag. The long wait until 2026 for deliveries is a curious detail, but if the final product lives up to the promises made at launch, the Mahindra XEV 9S could very well redefine the family EV segment in India for years to come.
