Mahindra XEV 9S is finally here at 19.95 lakh, boasting bold design, ambitious range claims, and modern features. But can it really deliver in India’s real-world driving conditions?
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News summary created by AI · Reviewed by Daily Axle
Mahindra finally launched the Mahindra XEV 9S at 19.95 lakh. Quite a price. And honestly, I am both excited and skeptical. After 10 years in the Indian auto industry, I have seen launches that promise a lot but deliver just okay
Design That Stands Out
The Mahindra XEV 9S looks bold, futuristic, not like the usual SUVs on Indian roads. I remember testing the XUV 300 years ago. Beautiful design but the touchscreen kept freezing. Little things matter, first impression can spoil easily. The same could happen here
File Photo: Side profile of Mahindra XEV 9S highlighting its aerodynamic body and modern SUV look
Performance Claims vs Reality
Mahindra says the Mahindra XEV 9S can cover 500 km on a single charge. But I have seen this story before. Earlier EV models promised high ranges and in real traffic, with AC on, it often dropped 20 to 30 percent. City driving should be smooth. But software quirks in regenerative braking could feel strange sometimes. I had a demo where the car slowed down abruptly without warning. A dealer told me it will be fixed soon. It wasn’t
Cabin and Comfort
Step inside the Mahindra XEV 9S and it feels premium. Minimalistic, clean lines, big touchscreen. But I remember EVs where the system froze mid-navigation. Not fun. Rear seat comfort is decent, storage is okay, but not extraordinary. Still, it has a modern vibe
Pricing and Market Perspective
19.95 lakh puts the Mahindra XEV 9S in a semi-premium category. Compared with Tata and MG EVs, this price feels either fair or high. What will matter is service, battery warranties, software updates. Without that, buyers may hesitate
Risks and Concerns
EV charging infrastructure in India is still patchy. Mahindra XEV 9S can be amazing on paper but if fast chargers fail or software glitches happen, buyers feel stranded. A friend was stuck once when the fast charger didn’t work. Panic mode. Brand trust matters. Mahindra is strong in SUVs but EVs are different. Every small issue online spreads fast
Personal Stories
Last year, I tested a Mahindra EV prototype. The car randomly switched driving modes mid-ride. Heart in mouth moment. Dealer said just a bug. But small issues like these can affect the ownership experience. Another time, at a dealer meet, a Mahindra exec told me battery swap ideas are being discussed. Little insider hints show Mahindra is thinking ahead but execution is key
Final Thoughts
Mahindra XEV 9S is ambitious, stylish, priced aggressively. But software, real-world range, service network and infrastructure will decide its success. It could shake up the EV segment if these work. Until I drive it on city and highway back-to-back, I keep one eye on excitement and one on reality
