Mahindra XEV 9S Gets New Drive Mode: Here’s Why

Mahindra launched the XEV 9S electric SUV in November 2025. It became the third product in the carmaker’s Electric Origin SUV lineup. At launch, it came with four driving modes- Default, Everyday, Range and Race. Now, Mahindra has added a fifth mode- ‘Custom’ to the lineup. This is to address an issue with the suspension which many media and influencers had flagged during the e-SUV’s first drive.

Mahindra XEV 9S Gets New ‘Custom’ Drive Mode: Details

The XUV 9S’ semi-active suspension feels soft and comfortable. The issue is that the vehicle doesn’t settle down on gently undulating tarmac. There is then a constant vertical movement which only increases with speed. The ‘Race’ mode has firmer damping and thus reduces this effect. In other words, if just the suspension is made firm enough, the vertical movement can be contained.

The ‘Custom’ mode lets drivers select individual settings for powertrain, steering, and suspension. It allows them to mix and match settings for these. One can now keep the powertrain and steering in a relaxed setting and still opt for a stiffer suspension setup.

mahindra xev 9s suspension system

The new mode will only be made available on the range-topping Pack THREE trim, as semi-active damping is available only on these. Pack ONE and Pack TWO, on the other hand, use passive damping.

Mahindra has already started commencing deliveries of the Pack THREE variants from January 23rd. On e-SUVs that have already reached their owners, the new mode would be added through software updates. It will be a factory inclusion on future deliveries.

More About The Mahindra XEV 9S

mahindra tape 9s

On the design front, the XEV 9S borrows generously from the XEV 9e and the XUV 7XO. It gets all-LED lighting, a closed-off EV grille, triangular LED headlamps, and aero-optimized wheels. In the side view, it looks just like the 7XO. Even at the rear, several design cues are shared with the 7XO. The electric SUV is offered in seven exterior colour options.

The 9S has a tech-loaded, modern-looking cabin. The overall design and equipment levels stand close to those of the XEV 9e. There’s a generous use of premium trims and soft-touch materials. The cabin has also been made as quiet as possible.

All variants come with three 12.3 -inch displays serving as the driver’s display, central touchscreen and the passenger entertainment display, respectively. In addition to these, the range-topping variant also gets 1400W, 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system with Dolby Atmos and BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) mounts for second-row occupants.

mahindra xev 9s top view

Other features include dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, powered front seats with boss mode, ambient lighting, a large panoramic sunroof, remote parking, 65W fast charger, electronic parking brake, NFC-based digital key, Head Up Display (HUD), air purifier, 540-degree camera, level 2+ ADAS, a powered tailgate and more.

The XEV 9S has the most capacious boot in its class- 527L with the third row folded down. Additionally, the frunk can accommodate 150L. The second row offers sliding and reclining functions as well.

The XEV 9S is based on Mahindra’s in-house developed INGLO platform. It gets a rear axle-mounted electric motor that makes 282hp and 380Nm- enough to propel the e-SUV to 100 kph from a standstill in just 7 seconds. The top speed here is 202 kph.

Three battery packs are available- 59kWh, 70kWh and 79kWh, The largest of these has an ARAI range of 679km per charge. Real-world range of this battery pack could be in the ballpark of 500km. This electric SUV is priced in the range of Rs 19.95 lakh-Rs 30.20 lakh, ex-showroom.

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