Why Mahindra XEV 9S Is Launching Before the XUV700 Facelift

Mahindra is preparing a busy lineup as part of the new SUVs India 2025 wave. The company has two major SUVs in the pipeline - the XUV700 facelift 2025 and its electric counterpart, the XEV 9S. However, Mahindra has decided to launch the electric XEV 9S first, before the refreshed Mahindra XUV700 facelift. The XEV 9S will make its global debut on November 27, while the XUV700 facelift launch date is still not confirmed and is expected to come later.

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Why Launch the XEV 9S First?

Mahindra is launching the XEV 9S first because it is not just an update, but an entirely new product under the brand’s Born Electric strategy. The XEV 9S is designed as a full-size 7-seater electric SUV. This will give Mahindra an early advantage in the growing EV market. Right now, there are very few mass-market 7-seater electric SUVs, which gives Mahindra a chance to lead in this segment before strong competition increases.

On the other hand, the XUV700 facelift is an update to an already popular internal combustion engine SUV. The facelift will be part of Mahindra’s regular update cycle and does not require the same urgency. This is why the electric XEV 9S takes priority in the launch schedule.

What Will the XEV 9S Borrow from the XUV700 Facelift?

Even though the XUV700 facelift 2025 is coming later, both models share development cues. Many upgrades expected on the facelifted XUV700 will appear first on the XEV 9S.

The XEV 9S is seen with a triple-screen dashboard layout, which is a step up from the current dual-screen setup on the XUV700. This new setup includes a large infotainment display, a digital driver display, and a full-size screen for the co-driver. The front passenger screen can be used to stream OTT apps, watch YouTube, play games or even attend video calls through apps like Zoom and Google Meet.

The XEV 9S also features a sliding second row, which increases flexibility inside the cabin and makes the third row more usable. The current XUV700 has fixed second-row seats, so this will be a noticeable improvement when the facelift arrives.

The XEV 9S is also expected to debut Mahindra’s new convenience features such as massaging front seats, three-zone climate control, multiple wireless chargers and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. These upgrades are likely to make their way to the Mahindra XUV700 facelift later.

More Premium Tech Expected

The XEV 9S may also introduce new advanced features such as an AR-based head-up display that projects navigation and alerts on the windshield, a powered tailgate for easier boot access and an in-car camera that supports video calls and driver fatigue detection. The facelifted XUV700 could receive some or all of these features depending on final product planning.

Platform and Power

The XEV 9S will be based on Mahindra’s new INGLO modular electric platform. It is expected to support a motor output of up to 282 hp and 380 Nm, along with an LFP battery pack that could be sourced from BYD’s Blade series. The platform is designed to reduce weight, improve battery efficiency and offer stronger range stability.

Launch Timeline and Rivals

The XEV 9S will be officially showcased at Mahindra’s ‘Scream Electric’ event on November 27. The XUV700 facelift launch date is expected to fall around early 2026. Price for the Mahindra XEV 9S is expected to start from around Rs 21 lakh. Once on sale, it will go up against models like the Tata Harrier EV and BYD Atto 3.

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