Mahindra XUV400 EV

The Mahindra XUV400 is a homegrown electric compact SUV built on the bones of the petrol XUV300 but stretched longer for a bigger boot and a roomier cabin. It targets buyers stepping into electric motoring without going premium, offering two battery choices, peppy single-motor performance and a claimed range that comfortably covers city commutes. Positioned against the Tata Nexon EV, it leans on Mahindra's SUV image and strong straight-line punch rather than badge prestige.

On the move, the XUV400 is genuinely quick off the line. The 148 bhp motor and 310 Nm of instant torque make it one of the faster cars in its segment from a standstill, and that eagerness suits busy city traffic where closing gaps matters more than outright top speed. Three drive modes — Fun, Fast and Fearless — adjust the throttle response, though most owners will leave it in the middle setting for everyday balance. The light steering and tight turning circle make it easy to thread through tight lanes and parking lots.

The cabin is practical rather than plush. There is a decent amount of space front and back thanks to the longer body, and the boot is one of the larger ones in this class, which makes the XUV400 a sensible family choice. However, plastics feel ordinary in places, and earlier cars drew criticism for a basic dashboard. Mahindra has since updated the interior on newer variants with a larger touchscreen, a digital cluster and connected-car features, addressing the most common complaint.

Ride quality is firm but composed, soaking up broken roads reasonably well while keeping body movements in check. The longer EL Pro variant with the bigger 39.4 kWh pack is the one to pick if you do occasional intercity runs, since real-world range lands well short of the ARAI figure once you factor in highway speeds and air-conditioning. Fast charging from a DC unit gets you most of the way in under an hour, but home charging on a regular wall box is an overnight affair.

Where the XUV400 asks for patience is software polish and service consistency. The infotainment and charging app experience has been hit or miss for some owners, and the dealer network is still building EV expertise. It is a likeable, value-focused electric SUV that does the fundamentals well, provided you go in with realistic range expectations.