As the global automobile industry accelerates toward electrification, Mahindra & Mahindra has entered the race with force. Known for its rugged SUVs and diesel powerhouses, Mahindra is now shaping the future with a keen eye on electric mobility. At the center of its electric vision is the Mahindra XUV400 EV — a premium electric SUV that merges sustainability with performance, tech, and everyday practicality.
The XUV400 EV isn’t Mahindra’s first electric venture, but it marks a bold step forward from the compact e2o and e-Verito days. This time, Mahindra is gunning for the mainstream — challenging the likes of Tata Nexon EV, MG ZS EV, and even premium city-focused EVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric.
So what makes the Mahindra XUV400 Electric SUV special? Can it deliver a premium driving experience while offering zero emissions, powerful performance, and value for money?
Let’s break it all down.
A Bold Design That Reflects Mahindra’s New EV Identity
Mahindra has smartly based the XUV400 on the popular XUV300 platform, but this is no simple rebadge. The XUV400 brings fresh styling cues, refined proportions, and a futuristic EV personality.
Exterior Highlights:
- Twin Peaks Logo: The new copper-finished Mahindra logo takes center stage.
- Closed-off Front Grille: A signature EV touch, with integrated LED DRLs.
- Sharp LED Projector Headlamps: Framed by dual-tone copper accents.
- Aerodynamic Front Bumper: With copper inserts for a distinct visual identity.
- 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels: Sleek and sporty.
- Extended Length: At 4.2 meters, it’s longer than the XUV300, translating to better boot space.
- LED Tail Lamps: Modern lighting signature at the rear.
- Sunset Copper Accents: Unique to Mahindra EVs, symbolizing electrification with style.
Despite being a compact SUV, the XUV400 looks assertive and modern, competing head-on with established EV rivals in visual appeal.
Interior: Modern, Spacious, and Feature-Rich
Inside the cabin, the XUV400 EV balances familiar design with smart updates and tech features that support the premium EV theme.
Cabin Features:
- All-Black Dashboard: Subtle copper detailing around vents and switches.
- 7-inch Infotainment System: With Apple CarPlay & Android Auto support.
- BlueSense Plus Connected Car Tech: Offering 60+ features like live tracking, remote lock/unlock, charging status, and geo-fencing.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: With EV-specific data like range, regen mode, and driving efficiency.
- Electric Sunroof: Available in higher trims.
- Premium Fabric Upholstery: With blue stitching in top variants.
- Boot Space: 378 liters – usable and larger than the XUV300.
Comfort, usability, and a dash of tech come together to create a driver-focused cabin with a modern EV atmosphere.
Powertrain: Instant Torque, Real Performance
The heart of the XUV400 lies in its all-electric powertrain, designed for both urban use and highway performance.
Key Performance Specs:
- Electric Motor: 110 kW (150 PS) permanent magnet synchronous motor.
- Torque: 310 Nm — available instantly from 0 rpm.
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in 8.3 seconds (fastest in its segment).
- Top Speed: Limited to 150 km/h.
The XUV400 isn’t just about silent driving — it delivers a genuinely sporty and fun-to-drive experience, thanks to instant torque and a well-tuned chassis. Whether you’re overtaking on highways or zipping through city traffic, the response is smooth and punchy.
Range and Charging: Practical for Daily Life
Mahindra offers the XUV400 in two battery configurations, catering to different usage needs and budgets.
Battery Options:
- 34.5 kWh Battery Pack (EC Variant)
- Range: ~375 km (MIDC)
- Ideal for daily city driving and short weekend getaways.
- 39.4 kWh Battery Pack (EL Variant)
- Range: ~456 km (MIDC)
- Perfect for users who want extended range and highway flexibility.
Charging Options:
- Standard 3.3 kW AC charger: ~13 hours (full charge).
- 7.2 kW fast AC charger: ~6.5 hours (full charge).
- 50 kW DC fast charging: 0 to 80% in just 50 minutes.
Whether you’re topping up overnight at home or fast-charging at a public station, the XUV400 EV is designed to keep downtime minimal.
Drive Modes & Regenerative Braking
The XUV400 offers three drive modes: Fun, Fast, and Fearless. Each adjusts throttle response and steering feel for varied driving conditions.
In addition, there are three levels of regenerative braking, which help recharge the battery while slowing down the car. You can customize your regen level based on traffic or driving habits, making every journey more efficient.
These small features enhance the EV driving experience, combining fun with function.
Safety First: Mahindra’s Strong Reputation Continues
Mahindra vehicles are known for their tough build quality, and the XUV400 continues that tradition.
Safety Features:
- 6 Airbags: Driver, passenger, and curtain airbags.
- ESP (Electronic Stability Program): Ensures control in sharp corners or wet roads.
- All 4 Disc Brakes
- Rear Parking Sensors with Camera
- ISO-FIX Child Seat Mounts
- ABS with EBD
- Hill Hold Control
The XUV400 EV has also scored 5 stars in Global NCAP crash testing, making it India’s safest electric SUV in its class.
Connected Tech: Smart and Future-Ready
Mahindra’s BlueSense+ app allows owners to control their XUV400 remotely, monitor battery usage, and receive diagnostics.
App Features:
- Check charging status
- Set climate control before entering the vehicle
- Lock/unlock doors remotely
- Locate your car in real-time
- Schedule charging sessions for off-peak hours
This app transforms the XUV400 into a connected, intelligent mobility solution — not just a vehicle.
Pricing and Variants
As of early 2025, the Mahindra XUV400 is available in multiple variants:
| Variant | Battery | Charging Option | Price (Ex-Showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|
| EC (Base) | 34.5 kWh | 3.3 kW | ₹15.99 lakh |
| EC | 34.5 kWh | 7.2 kW | ₹16.49 lakh |
| EL | 39.4 kWh | 7.2 kW | ₹18.99 lakh |
These prices are competitive, especially considering the range, performance, and safety it offers. Government subsidies (FAME-II & state EV policies) can further reduce the effective price.
How It Stacks Up Against Rivals
| Feature | XUV400 EV | Tata Nexon EV LR | MG ZS EV | Hyundai Kona |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Speed | 150 km/h | 140 km/h | 140 km/h | 155 km/h |
| 0–100 km/h | 8.3 sec | 8.9 sec | 8.5 sec | 9.7 sec |
| Max Range | 456 km | 465 km | 461 km | 452 km |
| Boot Space | 378 L | 350 L | 470 L | 332 L |
| GNCAP Rating | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | Not tested | Not tested |
The XUV400 EV competes fiercely, especially in performance and safety, while undercutting some rivals on price.
The Future: A Glimpse of Mahindra’s EV Lineup
The XUV400 is just the beginning. Mahindra has teased an entire range of futuristic electric SUVs under its “Born Electric” platform, which includes models like the BE.05, BE.07, and XUV.e8 — expected to launch starting late 2025.
This means the XUV400 will soon become part of a larger, technologically integrated EV ecosystem, possibly sharing charging infrastructure, connected features, and Mahindra’s upcoming INGLO platform.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the XUV400 EV?
If you’re in the market for an electric SUV that offers a balanced blend of performance, practicality, tech, and safety, the Mahindra XUV400 EV should be high on your list.
Pros:
- Strong range (up to 456 km)
- Fast acceleration and sporty handling
- Class-leading safety rating
- Premium design with EV-specific details
- Competitive pricing
- Fast charging support
Cons:
- Slightly dated infotainment interface
- No ventilated seats or wireless charging (yet)
- Cabin layout carried over from XUV300
Still, when you consider the entire package, the XUV400 delivers a premium EV experience without the luxury price tag.
Conclusion
The Mahindra XUV400 isn’t just a new electric car — it’s a symbol of Mahindra’s bold transition into the EV era. With its powerful motor, intelligent features, impressive safety, and aggressive pricing, it’s clearly built for today’s buyers — eco-conscious, tech-savvy, and unwilling to compromise on performance.
So before you pick your next SUV, maybe it’s time to skip the fuel station and go electric — because the Mahindra XUV400 promises more than just a drive — it promises a premium experience for the future.