India’s electric SUV segment is about to enter its most exciting phase yet. With Mahindra preparing to launch the XEV 9S in early 2026, the battlefield now includes strong contenders like the Tata Harrier EV, BYD Atto 3, and the globally acclaimed Hyundai Ioniq 5.
Each of these models promises long range, futuristic tech, and premium comfort — but the question remains: which one delivers the best balance of value, performance, and practicality for Indian buyers in 2025?
Let’s break down the comparison in detail — from power and range to interiors, charging, and brand trust.
1. Power, Range & Pricing Comparison
The foundation of any EV’s value lies in its powertrain performance and real-world range.
Here’s how the Mahindra XEV 9S stacks up against its direct rivals:
| Model | Battery Capacity | Power Output | Range (Claimed) | 0–100 km/h (Approx.) | Estimated Price (₹ ex-showroom) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mahindra XEV 9S | 80–90 kWh | ~282 PS | 550 km (WLTP) / 480 km real | < 8 sec | 35–50 lakh |
| Tata Harrier EV | ~60 kWh | ~210 PS | 450 km (ARAI) / 400 km real | ~8.5 sec | 28–35 lakh |
| BYD Atto 3 | 60.5 kWh | 204 PS | 521 km (ARAI) / 420 km real | ~7.3 sec | 34–36 lakh |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 72.6 kWh | 217 PS | 631 km (ARAI) / 550 km real | ~7.6 sec | 46–50 lakh |
Range Verdict
The XEV 9S sits between the Ioniq 5 and Atto 3 in range, offering more flexibility for long-distance travel while keeping pricing competitive. Its 550 km WLTP range positions it perfectly for Indian highway use.
Performance Verdict
With 282 PS and instant torque, the XEV 9S outmuscles the Harrier EV and BYD Atto 3, giving it the edge in acceleration and highway power delivery.
2. Design & Dimensions — Bold vs Global Sophistication
Each EV takes a different approach to design — Mahindra opts for muscular presence, while rivals lean toward minimalist aesthetics.
| Model | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) | Wheelbase (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mahindra XEV 9S | ~4,800 | ~1,900 | ~1,700 | ~2,900 |
| Tata Harrier EV | 4,605 | 1,922 | 1,718 | 2,741 |
| BYD Atto 3 | 4,455 | 1,875 | 1,615 | 2,720 |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 4,635 | 1,890 | 1,605 | 3,000 |
Design Analysis
- Mahindra XEV 9S: Aggressive SUV stance with illuminated Twin Peaks logo and LED DRL lightbar. Best suited for buyers who love road presence.
- Tata Harrier EV: Sleek and sporty, borrowing cues from the Curvv concept. Strong appeal for Indian audiences transitioning from diesel SUVs.
- BYD Atto 3: Urban European styling with curvy lines and coupe-like proportions.
- Hyundai Ioniq 5: Futuristic yet clean, with pixelated DRLs and a distinct retro-inspired shape.
The XEV 9S stands out for its large proportions and true 7-seater design, while the others are 5-seaters.
3. Interior, Tech & Infotainment Comparison
Inside, every one of these EVs brings something different to the table — from AdrenoX AI to BYD’s rotating touchscreen and Hyundai’s minimalist lounge layout.
| Feature | Mahindra XEV 9S | Tata Harrier EV | BYD Atto 3 | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Display Setup | Dual 12.3-inch screens + AR HUD | 12.3-inch touchscreen + digital cluster | 12.8-inch rotating screen | Dual 12.3-inch screens |
| Interface | AdrenoX EV OS (AI & OTA) | Nexon.ev OS | BYD DiLink OS | Hyundai Bluelink |
| ADAS Level | Level 2 | Level 2 (expected) | Level 2 | Level 2 |
| Voice & Connectivity | AI voice assistant, wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay | Wireless connectivity | Built-in voice assistant | Voice + gesture control |
| Sound System | 12-speaker premium surround setup | JBL audio | Dirac-tuned system | Bose 8-speaker |
Interior Verdict
The XEV 9S impresses with its three-row seating, vegan leather materials, and triple-screen cockpit, giving it a premium advantage over the BYD and Tata. However, the Ioniq 5 still leads in sheer cabin minimalism and design finesse.
4. Charging Ecosystem & Performance
Charging infrastructure and battery management play a massive role in ownership convenience — and Mahindra seems to have learned from global EV leaders.
| Model | DC Fast Charging | AC Charging (Home) | Charging Time (0–80%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahindra XEV 9S | 150–180 kW | 11 kW | 30–35 mins |
| Tata Harrier EV | 100–125 kW | 7.2 kW | 40–45 mins |
| BYD Atto 3 | 80 kW | 7 kW | 45–50 mins |
| Hyundai Ioniq 5 | 350 kW (global) / 150 kW (India) | 11 kW | 20–25 mins |
Charging Verdict
The XEV 9S sits close to the Ioniq 5 in charging speed, both far ahead of Tata and BYD’s current limits.
Its 800V architecture allows efficient heat management, maintaining performance even during frequent fast-charging cycles.
5. Tech Ecosystem & Software Support
While range and design sell EVs, it’s the software and tech support that truly shape long-term ownership satisfaction.
Mahindra XEV 9S:
- AdrenoX EV with AI-driven interface.
- Over-the-air (OTA) updates for all core systems.
- Integration with Mahindra EV Connect app for diagnostics and remote functions.
Tata Harrier EV:
- EVOS interface (based on Nexon.ev).
- Connected car features through iRA 2.0 app.
BYD Atto 3:
- BYD’s DiLink OS — feature-rich but limited OTA scope in India.
Hyundai Ioniq 5:
- Mature Bluelink platform with full remote access and strong global support.
Verdict:
The XEV 9S’s combination of AI, AR navigation, and real-time EV analytics puts it on par with Hyundai’s tech suite — impressive for a first-gen Indian premium EV.
6. Brand Perception & Reliability
| Brand | Strengths | Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Mahindra | Strong SUV DNA, expanding EV tech, Indian-built reliability | Needs to prove long-term EV service consistency |
| Tata Motors | Proven EV experience, local manufacturing | Build consistency issues in some models |
| BYD | Global battery expertise, premium quality | Lower aftersales visibility in India |
| Hyundai | Established EV credibility, excellent service | Higher cost and limited localization |
Reliability Verdict
In 2025–26, Mahindra and Tata will have the advantage of local service networks, while BYD and Hyundai maintain brand trust through proven battery systems.
Mahindra’s EV plans also include dedicated service centers in top metros — a major advantage for early buyers.
7. Practicality & Ownership Comparison
| Aspect | Mahindra XEV 9S | Tata Harrier EV | BYD Atto 3 | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 7-seater | 5-seater | 5-seater | 5-seater |
| Boot Space (est.) | 450–500 L | 450 L | 440 L | 527 L |
| Charging Network (India) | Mahindra + Jio-bp + ChargeZone | Tata Power EZ | BYD Shell Partners | Hyundai EV Network |
| Maintenance Cost | Low (local sourcing) | Low | Moderate | Higher |
| Warranty (Expected) | 8 yrs / 1.6 lakh km (battery) | 8 yrs / 1.6 lakh km | 8 yrs / 1.5 lakh km | 8 yrs / 1.6 lakh km |
Mahindra’s partnerships with Jio-bp and Charge+Zone ensure expanding fast-charging coverage by 2026, bringing ownership convenience close to Hyundai’s network reliability.
8. Verdict — Where Mahindra Wins, and Where It May Fall Short
Where Mahindra Could Win
✅ 7-seater practicality in a sea of 5-seaters.
✅ Long range (480+ km real) and fast 180 kW DC charging.
✅ Advanced infotainment (AdrenoX EV) and OTA-ready system.
✅ Lower cost of ownership than Ioniq 5 or imported rivals.
✅ Bold design and local service advantage.
Where Mahindra Could Lose
⚠️ Slightly lower refinement compared to Hyundai’s global build.
⚠️ Fewer luxury materials inside versus BYD’s premium fit-and-finish.
⚠️ First-year software maturity curve for AdrenoX EV.
Final Thought
The Mahindra XEV 9S bridges the gap between value and aspiration. It offers the range and charging capability of a Hyundai Ioniq 5 at a far more accessible price, while providing more space than both the BYD Atto 3 and Tata Harrier EV.
If Mahindra nails its aftersales and software support, the XEV 9S could easily become India’s best all-round electric SUV of 2025–26.
FAQs — Mahindra XEV 9S vs Rivals
Q1. Which electric SUV has the longest range?
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 leads with a claimed 631 km, followed by the Mahindra XEV 9S at around 550 km (WLTP).
Q2. Which SUV charges fastest?
Both the Ioniq 5 and XEV 9S support up to 150–180 kW DC fast charging, allowing 0–80% in around 30 minutes.
Q3. Is the XEV 9S bigger than the Tata Harrier EV?
Yes — it’s longer, wider, and offers a full 7-seater layout compared to the Harrier’s 5 seats.
Q4. Which one is the best value EV SUV?
The XEV 9S offers the best blend of price, performance, and practicality for large families.
Q5. Which EV offers better tech and infotainment?
The XEV 9S matches the Ioniq 5 in connectivity and beats both Tata and BYD with its AdrenoX EV interface and AI features.
