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Mahindra has boldly embraced the era of born electric vehicles with its latest offering, the XEV 9e. This coupe SUV, a first for Mahindra, was initially unveiled in 2022 and has made a swift journey from concept to reality. Its design hints at the future of Mahindra’s electric cars, showcasing a striking exterior that blends innovation with bold aesthetics.
At a towering 4.7 meters, the XEV 9e is an imposing presence on the road. Its front end is characterized by low-set headlamps, a large grille-less face, and connected LED DRLs, all of which stand out, particularly in the vibrant red color option.
The coupe SUV’s signature roofline, tapering towards the rear, defines its profile, exuding elegance and athleticism. Additional design highlights include 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, pronounced wheel arches, and pop-out door handles, a nod to its internal combustion engine (ICE) sibling, the XUV700.
At the rear, the sloping roofline seamlessly merges with the sizable boot lid, creating a distinctive and cohesive silhouette. The infinity logo and connected tail lamps mirror the LED DRLs up front, reinforcing the car’s symmetry and futuristic vibe. Mahindra has successfully carried forward its emphasis on a commanding road presence while adapting to the electric vehicle age.
A Glimpse Inside the XEV 9e
While the exterior is a groundbreaking departure for Mahindra, the cabin strikes a balance between revolution and practicality. The centerpiece of the interior is a three-screen display setup, a first for Mahindra. These high-quality screens feature crisp graphics and ergonomic functionality, though they occasionally lag when navigating multiple features. However, Mahindra assures that such issues will be resolved in the production-ready version.
In an effort to maintain a clean design, several key functions have been integrated into the touchscreens. While visually appealing, this approach can make accessing specific functions cumbersome, requiring significant scrolling.
The front seats offer generous space, with distinct zones for each occupant, thanks to a wide central console. Materials used throughout the cabin feel premium and ergonomically sound, although front visibility is slightly compromised, and rear visibility is notably poor.
The rear seats provide ample comfort for two passengers and adequate room for three if the middle occupant adjusts to the centrally positioned AC vents. Despite the spacious seating, under-thigh support is limited due to the high floor. The rear seats can also recline and fold down, expanding the cargo space as needed.
Conclusion
The Mahindra XEV 9e marks a significant milestone for the brand, blending cutting-edge design, advanced features, and the promise of a sustainable electric future. While there are areas for refinement, particularly in terms of screen functionality and rear visibility, this coupe SUV demonstrates Mahindra’s commitment to evolving with the times and establishing a strong foothold in the electric vehicle market.
