New Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above: Base Variant That Feels Like a Top Model

Mahindra has completely changed the electric SUV game in India with the XEV 9S, especially its Pack One Above variant. Despite being the entry-level trim, the Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above packs features that many rivals keep for their top-end versions.

From triple 12.3-inch screens to advanced driver tech and impressive performance, this “base” variant doesn’t feel basic at all — making the XEV 9S one of the most value-loaded EVs in its segment.

Key Highlights

Entry variant priced at ₹19.95 lakh (ex-showroom)

Triple 12.3-inch digital displays powered by Snapdragon 8155

Two battery options: 59 kWh & 79 kWh

Fast charging: 20–80% in 20 minutes (79 kWh pack)

Premium features: panoramic sunroof, illuminated logo, Bi-LED lights

Safety: 6 airbags, high-strength body shell, DDD system

Boot space: 527L + 150L frunk

Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above
Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above

Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above: Detailed Review

Design & Exterior – Base Variant That Doesn’t Look Base

One look at the Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above, and you’ll instantly feel Mahindra has broken the usual variant hierarchy. The SUV gets:

  • Massive panoramic sunroof
  • Sharp Bi-LED headlamps with DRLs
  • Full-width LED tail lamps
  • Illuminated Mahindra Twin Peaks logo
  • Stylish 18-inch aero wheels

These features are usually given only in top-end trims by most brands. With the XEV 9S, Mahindra clearly wants the base model to feel premium enough to attract first-time EV buyers.

The design language follows Mahindra’s Born Electric family styling — muscular stance, aerodynamic surfaces, clean LED signatures, and futuristic detailing.

ALSO READ: Tata Sierra EV 2025 Price ₹25-30L, Range 420km, Stylish Design

Interior & Cabin Quality – Triple Screens Steal the Show

Step inside and the highlight is unmistakable — three 12.3-inch screens spanning the dashboard. This includes:

  • A full-digital driver display
  • Central infotainment screen
  • Passenger-side screen

All powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chipset, the same processor used in many luxury EVs globally.

Cabin Features

  • Premium fabric upholstery
  • CapTouch switches
  • Cooled centre console
  • One-touch power window for driver
  • Tilt & telescopic steering
  • Auto headlamps, rain-sensing wipers
  • Fully automatic climate control with rear AC vents
  • Height-adjustable driver seat & seatbelt
  • Sliding 2nd-row seats with multi-step recline

The cabin feels futuristic but not complicated — the UI is fluid, app support is wide, and most features are easy to access for daily driving.

Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above
Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above
ALSO READ: MG Windsor EV Inspire Edition Launched: 3 Big Upgrades You Should Know About

Performance & Drivetrain – Smooth, Powerful & Quick

Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above offers with two battery options, each tuned for performance and efficiency.

59 kWh Battery

  • Power: 170 kW
  • Charging: Up to 140 kW fast charging

79 kWh Battery

  • Power: 210 kW
  • Charging: 180 kW DC fast charging
  • 20–80% in 20 minutes (best in segment)

Drive Experience Highlights

  • Electric Power Steering with Variable Gear Ratio
  • Tight 10m turning radius
  • Multiple drive modes with Boost Mode
  • Single-pedal driving
  • Multi-step regenerative braking

The SUV uses an iLink front suspension with 5-Link rear suspension, combined with MTV-CL tech and Frequency Dependent Damping, making the ride stable at high speeds and comfortable on broken city roads.

Mahindra has also used low rolling resistance tyres and enhanced NVH suppression to keep the cabin quiet — something EV buyers care about deeply.

Safety Features – Loaded Even at Base Level

Even the entry variant gets:

  • 6 airbags
  • High-strength body shell
  • All-wheel disc brakes
  • Brake-by-wire tech
  • Electronic Brake Booster
  • Driver Drowsiness Detection (DDD)
  • Rear parking sensors with HD camera
  • TPMS (with individual pressure display)
  • Electronic parking brake

The SUV comes built on a Born Electric platform designed to meet future safety norms and global crash standards.

Technology & Connectivity – Flagship-Level Tech

This is where the XEV 9S beats most rivals, including Hyundai Kona Electric, MG ZS EV and Tata Harrier EV.

Major Tech Features:

  • Triple 12.3-inch screens
  • Snapdragon 8155 processor
  • Built-in Amazon Alexa
  • 5G support
  • Wireless Android Auto & CarPlay
  • OTT, social media & shopping apps
  • Mahindra Me4U connected tech

Using the Me4U app, owners get:

  • Remote lock/unlock
  • Cabin pre-cooling
  • Scheduled charging
  • Live vehicle tracking
  • Battery status indicators

Audio System

  • 4 speakers + 2 tweeters (entry variant)
    While not premium, it delivers clear sound — enough for family usage.

Practicality, Storage & Real-World Usability

Mahindra has ensured the XEV 9S is as practical as any petrol SUV:

  • 150L frunk with drain hole & illumination
  • 527L boot space
  • Flat loading area
  • Split 60:40 rear seats
  • Comfortable ride quality
  • Easy manoeuvrability in tight city spaces

This makes the XEV 9S suitable for long families, highway touring, and daily city usage.

Price & Value for Money

The New Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above variant starts at:

₹19.95 lakh (ex-showroom)

For the equipment offered, it undercuts rivals while giving more premium features.

Most EVs offering panoramic sunroof + triple screens + fast charging + advanced safety are priced above ₹23–26 lakh, so Mahindra has clearly aimed at value-conscious buyers.

Competition Analysis

The XEV 9S competes with:

  • MG ZS EV
  • Tata Harrier EV
  • Hyundai Kona Electric
  • BYD Atto 3

Where Mahindra Leads:

  • Better screen setup
  • Faster charging
  • More premium features in base variant
  • Larger boot space
  • Stronger connected tech
  • Bigger battery options

Where Rivals Lead:

  • BYD Atto 3 offers smoother interior quality
  • MG ZS EV has a refined ride
  • Kona Electric has proven long-term reliability

But overall, the XEV 9S feels more complete and future-ready.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Extremely feature-rich base variant
  • Triple 12.3-inch screens
  • Powerful motor options
  • Fastest charging in segment
  • Practical cabin & storage
  • Strong safety package

Cons

  • Audio system could be better
  • Fabric seats may not appeal to all
  • Range figures yet to be fully tested in India

Expert Opinion

Mahindra has delivered one of the most value-loaded EVs in India with the XEV 9S Pack One Above. This is the rare entry-level variant where buyers won’t feel like they’re missing out. The technology, charging capability, performance and cabin experience put it ahead of many mid and top variants from rivals.

If Mahindra nails real-world range and service experience, this SUV can become a segment disruptor.

Conclusion

The Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above proves that premium features don’t always need a premium price tag. With powerful motors, fast charging, high-tech screens, advanced safety and a long list of creature comforts, it brings luxury EV experience to a more accessible price point.

For buyers wanting a future-ready electric SUV without stretching their budget, this is one of the strongest choices today.

Frequently Ask Questions: New Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above

Q1. Is the Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above worth buying?

A. Yes, it offers segment-best features at an aggressive price, making it a strong value-for-money EV.

Q2. How fast can the XEV 9S charge?

A. With a 180 kW DC fast charger, the 79 kWh battery can charge from 20–80% in around 20 minutes.

Q3. Does the base variant get a sunroof?

A. Yes, it gets a massive panoramic sunroof, which is rare in entry-level variants.

Q4. What is the boot space of the New Mahindra XEV 9S Pack One Above?

A. It offers 527 litres of rear boot space and an additional 150-litre frunk.

Q5. Does it support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

A. Yes, both features are supported wirelessly.

Q6. How does it compare to the MG ZS EV?

A. The XEV 9S offers more tech, faster charging and better pricing, while the ZS EV offers a slightly more refined cabin.

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