The Mahindra XEV 9 is set to revolutionize the electric SUV market with its performance, technology, and design. There are key differences between the Mahindra XEV 9 base vs top model, especially in interior, exterior, and features. The base variant offers essential features at a budget-friendly price. In contrast, the top model includes premium upgrades, advanced safety, and high-end technology.
In this blog, we compare the Mahindra XEV 9 base vs top model with images to help you make the right choice.
Key Points
- Exterior Design Differences
- Interior Layout and Comfort
- Material Quality and Upholstery
- Infotainment and Technology
- Safety Features Breakdown
- Engine and Performance Options
- Wheel and Tire Variations
- Lighting Upgrades
- Convenience Features
- Price vs Value Proposition
Exterior Design Differences


Base Model: The base XEV 9e has a bold, modern look that defines Mahindra’s new EV style. It features sleek twin-pod LED projector headlights with connected inverted L-shaped LED DRLs stretching across the front. The grille is blanked off (as expected for an EV), and an illuminated Infinity logo on the bonnet adds a futuristic touch.
On the side, it sports 19-inch alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers, flush door handles, and glossy black cladding for a rugged yet premium appeal. At the rear, connected LED tail lights mirror the front DRLs, while a chunky tailgate and silver skid plate complete the design.
Top Model: The top-spec Pack Three takes things up a notch. It features LED headlights and DRLs with welcome and goodbye animations, making every arrival feel like a mini light show. The 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels replace the base model’s 19-inch ones, adding a sportier stance and a touch of bling.
At the rear, the connected LED tail lights remain but now include animated sequences, enhancing its premium appeal. With an overall length of 4,789 mm and a coupe-like roofline, the silhouette looks more refined. The extra design polish ensures it stands out—like the base model’s cooler, flashier sibling.
Interior Layout and Comfort


Base Model: Step inside the base XEV 9e, and you’re greeted with a spacious, functional cabin. The layout’s futuristic, with a flat floor (thanks to the INGLO platform) offering decent legroom. The seats are comfy enough for long drives, with adjustable headrests and a rear center armrest for that extra chill factor. The dashboard feels modern, but it’s not over-the-top plush think practical over pampered. Rear AC vents keep things cool, and the high floor (typical for EVs) slightly compromises under-thigh support.
Top Model: The top model’s interior is where luxury kicks in. Picture a massive fixed glass roof with ambient lighting in 16 million colors sync it to your music, and it’s like a rolling disco! The layout’s the same, but the front seats are ventilated and powered, hugging you with better bolstering. Rear passengers get reclining seats for extra comfort, and the panoramic glass roof makes the cabin feel airy and upscale.
Material Quality and Upholstery


Base Model: The base variant keeps it real with dual-tone grey and green fabric upholstery. It’s durable and easy to maintain perfect if you’ve got kids or pets. The dashboard uses decent plastics with a mix of soft-touch surfaces, but there’s some hard plastic around the lower bits. It’s not cheap-feeling, just practical. The steering wheel’s a two-spoke design with an illuminated logo, adding a dash of flair to an otherwise no-frills setup.
Top Model: The top-spec Pack Three screams premium with white leatherette upholstery accented by black inserts. Imagine sinking into those seats they’re soft, plush, and look like they belong in a higher price bracket. The dashboard gets more soft-touch materials, and the glossy black accents (though fingerprint magnets) elevate the vibe. The glass roof’s illumination ties it all together, making the cabin feel like a luxe lounge.
Infotainment and Technology


Base Model: Even the base XEV 9e doesn’t skimp on tech. Picture three 12.3-inch screens stretching across the dash one for the driver, one for infotainment, and one for the co-passenger. You’ve got wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 6-speaker sound system that’s solid for daily jams. Connected car tech, push-button start, and cruise control are standard, making it feel high-tech without breaking the bank.
Top Model: The top model turns it into a tech fest. Those same three screens get upgraded with a 16-speaker Harman Kardon system with Dolby Atmos imagine crystal-clear sound that wraps around you. Add in a heads-up display with augmented reality, auto parking via the key fob, and an interior camera for selfies or monitoring (hello, DOMS system).
Safety Features Breakdown
Base Model: Safety’s a big deal here, even at the base level. You get 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control, a rear parking camera, and driver drowsiness detection. There’s also a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and ISOFIX mounts for child seats. It’s a solid package that’s earned the XEV 9e a 5-star Bharat NCAP rating peace of mind included.
Top Model: The top variant piles on more with 7 airbags (adding a driver knee airbag) and a Level 2 ADAS suite. Picture adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, and autonomous emergency breaking all backed by 12 ultrasonic sensors, 5 radars, and 6 cameras. The 360-degree camera makes parking a breeze, and the auto parking feature feels like a sci-fi perk.
Engine and Performance Options

Base Model: The base XEV 9e packs a 59 kWh battery with a single rear-wheel-drive motor pumping out 231 hp and 380 Nm of torque. It’s peppy, hitting 0-100 km/h in about 6.8 seconds, with a claimed range of 542 km (MIDC). Expect around 400-450 km, which is still impressive for city and highway jaunts. Charging from 20-80% takes 20 minutes with a 140 kW DC fast charger quick and convenient.
Top Model: The top dog gets a 79 kWh battery, boosting power to 286 hp while keeping torque at 380 Nm. The range jumps to 656 km (MIDC), likely 500-550 km in the real world, making it a long-haul champ. It’s still RWD (no AWD yet), but the extra juice shaves a bit off the 0-100 km/h time and adds a boost button for quick bursts. Charging speed matches the base, but the bigger battery means more range per zap.
Wheel and Tire Variations


Base Model: The base rolls on 19-inch alloy wheels with aerodynamic covers functional and stylish, keeping drag low for better efficiency. Tires are 245/55 R19, offering a good balance of grip and comfort.
Top Model: Upgrade to the top model, and you get 20-inch diamond-cut alloys that scream sophistication. The larger size (likely 255/50 R20 tires) enhances the sporty look and slightly improves handling, though it might trade a bit of ride comfort for that extra flair.
Lighting Upgrades


Base Model: The base model’s lighting is all-LED twin-pod projectors up front, connected DRLs, and sleek tail lights. It’s bright and efficient, with auto headlights and rain-sensing wipers for ease.
Top Model: The top variant adds some dazzle with welcome and goodbye animations on the front and rear LEDs imagine your car winking at you as you walk away. The lighting setup’s the same, but these extras make it feel more alive and luxurious, especially at night.
Convenience Features


Base Model: Convenience is solid with auto AC, rear vents, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, and cooled console storage. The flush door handles pop out smoothly, and regenerative braking controls on the steering wheel add a practical EV touch.
Top Model: The top model spoils you with dual-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, rear window blinds, and a wireless charger. The auto parking feature (via key fob) is a party trick, and the glass roof’s mood lighting syncs with your tunes.
Price vs Value Proposition
Base Model: Priced at ₹21.90 lakh (ex-showroom), the base XEV 9e is a steal. You’re getting a futuristic design, three screens, solid safety, and a decent range for under ₹25 lakh on-road. It’s perfect for budget-conscious buyers who want an EV with flair and don’t need all the bells and whistles.
Top Model: At ₹30.50 lakh (ex-showroom), the top model’s pricier but loaded to the brim bigger battery, premium interior, advanced tech, and extra safety. It rivals the Tata Harrier EV and Hyundai Creta Electric, offering more range and features for the money.
For more details, visit the official website.
Conclusion
When comparing the Mahindra XEV 9 base vs top model, your decision depends on budget and feature preferences. The base model is a solid choice for budget-conscious buyers who want a capable EV. The top variant, however, offers premium interiors, advanced tech, and enhanced safety. If you value affordability, the base model works well. If you prefer a feature-packed experience, the top model is the better choice. This comparison will help you pick the right Mahindra XEV 9 variant for your needs.