Mahindra has just launched the XEV 9S, adding another electric SUV to their born electric portfolio. With a starting price of just ₹19.49 Lakh and goes up to ₹29.45 Lakh, it's being called the electric version of the Mahindra XUV700, which ranges from ₹13.66 Lakh to ₹23.71 Lakh. Let’s see what has truly changed in the XEV 9S, beyond the electric powertrain.
Pricing & Powertrain
Mahindra XEV 9S:
- Price: ₹19.49 Lakh to ₹29.45 Lakh
- Battery Electric Vehicle with only Automatic Transmission
- Battery Specs: 59 kWh, 70 kWh, 79 kWh
- Range: up to 679 km
- Motor Power: 282 bhp
- Torque: 380 Nm
- DC fast charging adds 20-80% in just 20 minutes.
Mahindra XUV700:
- Price: ₹13.66 Lakh to ₹23.71 Lakh
- 2-liter petrol and 2.2 liter diesel engine, with Manual and Automatic Transmission
- Engine Displacement: 2198 cc
- Motor Power: 182bhp@3500rpm
- Torque: 450Nm@1750-2800rpm
The fact of the matter is that comparing an EV with a petrol or diesel vehicle is an unfair comparison. The price difference is made up by the interior and feel-good features of the born electric SUVs offered by Mahindra.
If you want a detailed breakdown of the cost savings, you can read this blog.
Mahindra XEV 9S and XUV700: Differences
Mahindra XEV 9S:
- The dominating full-width LED DRLs, vertically stacked LED headlights, fog lights, and illuminated brand logo deliver a futuristic feel.
- Triple 12.3-inch display screens powered by MAIA software, and 2 BYOD screens for the second row, large openable panoramic sunroof.
- Audio is handled by a 16-speaker Harman Kardon system producing 1400W. The inclusion of a karaoke-friendly Groove Me mode highlights Mahindra’s focus on entertainment options.
- Additional features include scheduled HVAC, NFC-based digital key, 5G internet capability, and Smart User Profile recognition, which adapts seat, climate, and infotainment settings based on the driver.
- Ample cabin space with a 500-liter boot and a 150-liter frunk for extra storage.
Mahindra XUV700:
- Muscular and aggressive look as seen in Mahindra models, with LED headlamps, sharp C-shaped LED DRLs, wide grille with vertical chrome inserts.
- Minimalistic dashboard, with dual 10.25-inch screen setup, slim AC vents, dual-tone theme interior, leatherette upholstery.
- 6 and 7-seater variants, manual boss mode, wireless charging pads, panoramic sunroof, cruise control, automatic headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, ORVMs, push button start/stop, connected car tech.
- 12-speaker sound system, ventilated seats, 360-degree camera, blind view monitor.
Verdict: The XUV700 is loaded with tech but misses out on the additional display screen, BYOD compatibility, sliding and ventilated second row seats, powered tailgate, ambient lighting, auto-dimming IRVMs, AR HUD, intelligent adaptive suspension, rear sunshades, and more. All of these features are available in the XEV 9S based on the variant you choose.
Charging Technology
Mahindra XEV 9S:
- Mahindra offers 3 options:
- Regular chargers at 7.2 kW and 11.7 kW
- DC Fast Charger at 180 kW
- 20% to 80% in 20 minutes
Mahindra XUV700:
- This is a petrol and diesel vehicle, so this category doesn’t apply.
Final Verdict
Depending on your needs, the Mahindra XEV 9S has the capability to fulfill all roles and be a reliable companion for long trips with your family. Mahindra XUV700 on the other hand offers slightly less feel-good features which might be a deal breaker for some people. The XEV 9S has better interior comfort, making for a more practical choice when considering the 7-seater segment.
Overall, your choice will depend upon the powertrain, considering that XUV700 comes with the AWD setup, but XEV 9S does not.
