Mahindra XEV 9S Electric SUV Launched at Rs 19.95 Lakh, Bookings Open Jan 14, 2026

On November 27, 2025, Mahindra & Mahindra Limited unveiled the XEV 9S — India’s first authentic, ground-up electric seven-seater SUV — during its 'Scream Electric' event across multiple Indian cities. Priced at a starting ex-showroom Rs 19.95 lakh for the Pack One Above variant with a 59kWh battery, the XEV 9S undercuts its six-seater sibling, the XEV 9e, by Rs 1.95 lakh despite sharing the same INGLO architecture. The move signals a bold play in India’s premium EV segment, where three-row electric SUVs remain rare. Bookings open January 14, 2026, with deliveries starting just nine days later on January 23, 2026. Test drives begin December 5, 2025 — giving potential buyers nearly a month to experience the vehicle before committing.

Why the XEV 9S Isn’t Just Another Electric SUV

Most electric SUVs in India are conversions of internal combustion engine platforms. The XEV 9S isn’t. Mahindra insists it was designed from the ground up on the INGLO platform — a proprietary EV architecture that allows for optimized battery placement, lower center of gravity, and improved cabin space. That matters. In a market where families crave legroom and cargo capacity, the XEV 9S delivers a full third row that doesn’t feel like an afterthought. Unlike competitors that squeeze passengers into cramped third seats, Mahindra claims the rear row accommodates adults comfortably — a rare feat in electric SUVs under Rs 30 lakh.

Performance, Tech, and Premium Touches

Under the hood (or rather, under the floor), the XEV 9S uses a single rear-mounted motor delivering 286 PS and 380 Nm of torque. Mahindra claims a top speed of 202 km/h — faster than most petrol SUVs in its class. Two battery options are available: 59kWh and 79kWh, though some reports mention a 70kWh variant, creating confusion. Range estimates aren’t official yet, but industry analysts expect 400-500 km on the larger pack, putting it in direct competition with the Tesla Model Y and Volkswagen ID.7.

The tech list is packed. Higher trims include Level 2 ADAS with adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, and automatic emergency braking. There’s auto parking, a drowsiness detector that monitors driver eyelid movement, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and leatherette seats elevate the cabin beyond typical Indian SUV expectations.

Design That Speaks Volume

Visually, the XEV 9S borrows the muscular stance of the XUV700 but with EV-specific cues: flush door handles, a sealed grille, and 19-inch aerodynamic alloys. The rear features LED boomerang taillights set in gloss-black housing — a signature touch that’s both modern and unmistakably Mahindra. Six colors are offered, including the striking Nebula Blue and Ruby Velvet, which glow under sunlight like deep jewel tones. The black bumper insert and subtle body cladding give it a rugged, premium aura — less SUV, more electric luxury cruiser.

A Strategic Move in a Crowded Market

Mahindra’s pricing is the real headline. At Rs 19.95 lakh, the XEV 9S undercuts the MG Comet EV and Tata Nexon EV Max by over Rs 5 lakh — while offering two more seats and significantly more tech. The top variant, priced around Rs 28 lakh, is being marketed as a rival to SUVs costing up to Rs 80 lakh. That’s not just bold — it’s disruptive. The Indian middle class is ready for premium EVs, but only if they deliver value. Mahindra isn’t just selling a car; it’s selling a statement: you don’t need to pay luxury prices to get luxury features.

The gap between launch (November 27) and bookings (January 14) is deliberate. Mahindra is using the time to train dealerships, finalize software updates, and educate consumers on EV ownership — a critical step in a market still wary of charging infrastructure. The company also knows that January is prime buying season in India, with festivals over and bonuses in hand.

What This Means for India’s EV Future

The XEV 9S isn’t just another model. It’s a signal that India’s EV ecosystem is maturing. No longer are manufacturers building cheap, range-limited city cars. They’re now crafting full-sized, feature-rich family SUVs that can compete globally. If Mahindra can deliver on build quality and after-sales support — two areas where Indian EV brands have stumbled — the XEV 9S could become a benchmark.

The competition is watching. Tata Motors is expected to launch its own seven-seater EV soon. Hyundai and Kia are rumored to be developing similar models. But for now, Mahindra owns the space. And with the INGLO platform already powering the XUV400 and XEV 9e, this launch proves the architecture has legs — literally and figuratively.

What’s Next?

By March 2026, Mahindra plans to expand its charging network to 1,000 fast-charging points across 200 cities. The company is also exploring battery-swapping options for fleet customers. If the XEV 9S sells well — and early indicators suggest it will — expect a long-wheelbase version, a performance variant, and possibly even a commercial fleet model by 2027.