Mahindra XUV400: The Indian electric vehicle industry is witnessing rapid growth and home-bred automaker Mahindra has now stepped into the ring with its fully-electric SUV — the XUV400.
Meant to rival the Tata Nexon EV, the XUV400 is an attempt to blend Mahindra’s signature tough-guy image with cleaner electric power.
It’s a mix of a respectable range, voluminous interiors and nifty features, in the guise of a recognizable SUV.
Derived from the XUV300 but with significant changes, the XUV400 is Mahindra’s mainstream electric vehicle for city commuters and family users, and even early adopters who want something that was powerful yet practical.
Design and Dimensions
The XUV400 is based on the same platform as the XUV300, but is longer and more sophisticated looking.
It’s far longer which helps the visual and also part of gain of boot space.
To the front is a shut grille flanked by copper-accented twin LED DRLs, differentiating it from the internal-combustion-engined siblings.
The rear is a tidy design, complete LED taillamps and heavy E V badging.
The copper accents around the logo, the roof and the front fascia give it an electric feel, as do the 16-inch diamond-cut wheels which further add to the premium-ness of the look.
Battery, Range and Performance
The XUV400 is available in two versions: EC (34.5 kWh) and EL (39.4 kWh).
The EL offer claimed range of up to 456 km whereas the EC can go up to 375 km on a single charge (MIDC-certified).
That electric motor develops 150 PS and 310 Nm, which certainly makes it one of the most powerful EVs in its price point.
The vehicle accelerates to 0–100 km/h in 8.3 seconds, which is a decent for the drive experience.
It is compatible with both normal AC charging (7.2 kW) and DC fast charging – with the latter from 0-80% taking place in about 50 minutes, ensuring it is suitable for weekdays or weekend adventures.
Interior and Features
The interior of the XUV400 is pragmatic but uncluttered. Yes, the dashboard may have an XUV300-ish flavour but Mahindra has injected a few EV-specific touches like the blue stitching, orange accents and a digital MID.
The 7-inch infotainment system is Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible, while the driver is treated to a semi-digital instrument cluster that provides real-time range and battery information.
Other features of interest are included:
Electric sunroof
Push-button start
Cruise control
Connected car tech (EL variant)
Rear parking camera
Automatic climate control
Not the smartest cabin in terms of design, but it’s abundant and pleasant to operate.
Safety
The focus on safety has been quite significant with the XUV400, as it is with Mahindra. Key features include:
6 airbags (top variant)
ABS with EBD
ISOFIX child seat anchors
4 Wheel Disks
ESP and hill-hold control
Considering Mahindra’s reputation, thanks to the XUV300’s 5-star Global NCAP rating, it would seem reasonable to assume the XUV400 will also come with a sturdy safety shell.
Pros of Mahindra XUV400
Powerful electric motor with immediate torque
Excellent driving ranges (up to 456km)
Generous cabin and a roomy boot (378 litres)
DC fast charging support
Fun-to-drive nature
Safety and construction features
Cons of Mahindra XUV400
Interior design feels dated
No vented seats or wireless Android Auto/CarPlay
Fast-charging outlets not as ubiquitous in some regions
Has not been designed as an all new platform (uses modified ICE base)
Top versions can be expensive versus rivals
Mahindra XUV400: Verdict
The Mahindra XUV400 is a sturdy electric SUV for India’s streets. It is quick, has good range, is spacious, and ticks all the safety boxes—all the things that the target audience (₹15-19 lakh) in this market segment demands.
Although the cabin is looking a little dated, the whole package makes it one of the most practical electric SUVs on the market.
“If you are seeking a power packed and utility vehicle, the XUV400 is game.”
For all those wanting to move to an electric car without any compromise in power and utility, XUV400 fulfills the requirement at all fronts.