Mahindra XUV400 EV

Mahindra is about to begin an electric SUV launch offensive and the XUV400 marks the beginning of Mahindra’s new chapter of electrification. This compact SUV shares its core DNA with the Mahindra XUV300 sub-compact SUV, which in itself is a derivative of the SsangYong Tivoli. At its launch in January 2023, the XUV400 will directly rival the Tata Nexon EV as well as alternatives like the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona EV.

While the XUV400 is based on the XUV300, it is not a sub-four metre SUV. Measuring 4200mm in length, 1634mm in height, 1821mm in width and offering a 2600mm long wheelbase, in size, the XUV400 is competing with cars from a higher price segment, like the Hyundai Kona EV and MG ZS EV.

Most of its design is similar to the XUV300, however, it looks better proportioned and offers more road presence as well. As you’d expect, a major change is the replacement of the front grille with a closed panel and the car also sports copper contrast finishers that will be seen on the inside and out.

Other highlights include projector halogen headlights, LED tail lights and 16-inch alloy wheels.

The XUV400 sports an all black interior with contrast copper finishers as seen on the exterior. Here too, you’ll find that the design elements are largely shared with the XUV300, though, it does get a different steering wheel that’s similar to what you get in the Mahindra XUV700. The climate control console also sees a redesign with blue and red temperature bars seen on the centre console instead of a traditional climate control display.

Given how it’s not only based on the XUV300 but is actually larger, cabin space will be generous with decent shoulder room at the rear to accommodate three passengers. Feature highlights include auto AC, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment screen with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and over-the-air update support. The XUV400 will also come equipped with a single-pane sunroof and drive modes - Fun, Fast and Fearless.

At the core of the XUV400, is a Global NCAP 5-star crash safety rated platform. Safety features include 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, ESP, all wheel disc brakes and more. The battery itself is IP67 rated and has been tested in extreme weather conditions as well.

Boot space stands at 378 litres, going up to 418 litres when measured up to the roofline.

Driving the XUV400 is a very pleasant experience and despite its electric nature, new or amateur drivers won’t take time to adapt to it. There are three driving modes on offer – Fun, Fast and Fearless – and irrespective of the drive mode you’re in, you won’t feel a lack of performance. 

Power is delivered instantly, courtesy of its electric nature, which makes both city and highway overtakes very easy. The acceleration is quick, but doesn’t feel scary as the throttle calibration is smooth. So when you get on the throttle, the XUV400 picks up speed smoothly and doesn’t feel jerky. 

Between the three driving modes, you’ll feel a change between its throttle response and steering weight. The fun mode is equivalent to a conventional Eco mode, wherein the car picks up speed very smoothly, which is adequate for relaxed city and highway driving. If you want the throttle to be sharper, you can switch to fast or even the fearless mode if needed. 

The car picks speed really quickly in the latter, and while it is still smooth and linear, it can be a little overwhelming for a new driver who isn’t used to an EV’s instant torque. But even new drivers won’t have any issues getting used to the XUV400’s regenerative braking. It varies slightly between the three modes and the intensity depends on the speed of the vehicle, but it still feels natural at all times. You additionally get a single-pedal drive mode, which has really strong regen and can bring the car to a complete standstill as well. That’s something you will certainly appreciate in bumper to bumper traffic. 

Another thing to appreciate is the XUV400’s range. Mahindra claims 456km, but we’ve tested the SUV from 100% to 0% and found its real-world range  to be exactly 290km. 

To put that into perspective, if you have a daily running of around 40kms, then you’ll only have to charge the vehicle once a week. And with 290km of real-world range, you can take it beyond the city borders and easily do intercity trips like Delhi-Jaipur, or Mumbai-Pune, provided that you have a charger at the destination. 

In fact, if you don’t mind planning ahead, you can do even longer road trips with the XUV400 as it gets fast-charging capabilities of up to 50kW. The DC fast charger takes only 50 minutes to charge the XUV400’s battery from 0-80%. So when you stop for some stretching and snacking, your car can juice up quickly as well.

Beyond your usual city commutes, the XUV400 can definitely be used as a road trip vehicle too, because not only is the performance and range adequate, its ride quality is also appreciable and will maintain your comfort at all times.

The Mahindra XUV400 is an electric SUV worth waiting for. It promises driving excitement, a strong claimed range, safety and a good features list as well. At an expected price range of Rs 17-20 lakh ex-showroom, it can be a formidable alternative to cars from the same segment as well as those from a segment above.