Why Is Mahindra XEV 9e Selling More Than Double Of The Much Cheaper BE6

Mahindra's electric SUV rollout has brought two very different vehicles into the spotlight. On one hand, there's the BE 6, which is sleek, stylish and sporty. On the other, there's the XEV 9e, a larger, more upright SUV with a clear tilt toward practicality. Interestingly, it’s the XEV 9e that’s comfortably leading the sales race, despite being the costlier of the two.

The Sales Picture

The numbers tell the story with clarity. Over the four-month period from January to April 2025, the XEV 9e posted total sales of 7,863 units. In contrast, the BE 6 registered 3,175 units in the same timeframe.

In January, the gap was modest 1,137 for the XEV 9e versus 700 for the BE 6. But by April, that gap had widened significantly, with the XEV 9e selling 2,441 units and the BE 6 just 550. That means the XEV 9e is consistently outselling the BE 6 at a ratio of more than two to one, and in the most recent month, even close to four to one.

A Proper Five-Seater That Works for Families

For starters, the XEV 9e is a genuine five-seater in the traditional SUV mould. The cabin is wide, the second-row seating is generous, and the overall experience is one of space and comfort.

It fits well into the Indian family narrative, whether it’s elderly parents in the rear seat or kids on long drives. The upright seating position makes it easier for people of all ages to get in and out of the car without crouching or climbing.

Boot Space That Matches Real-World Needs

Luggage space is another big win. With a squarer boot and a more boxy profile, the XEV 9e offers far more usable cargo room. For buyers who travel often, or who need space for everything from grocery runs to weekend getaways, this becomes an important factor. Indian buyers rarely ignore practicality when assessing a vehicle's true utility.

Street Presence Still Matters

Another key reason behind the success of the XEV 9e is its road presence. The tall, muscular silhouette stands out in traffic and gives the car a commanding look. Many Indian buyers associate this big SUV look with value, safety and respect on the road. Even if most never take their SUV off-road, they want a car that looks like it can. The XEV 9e delivers on that visual promise.

Easy to Drive in the Real World

Ride height and ground clearance are also not to be underestimated. Given the varied nature of roads across the country, buyers appreciate the peace of mind that comes with higher ground clearance. The XEV 9e handles rough patches, potholes and speed breakers with ease, making it a more versatile choice in daily life.

Familiar Format, New Tech

Another factor is the familiarity of the package. The XEV 9e feels like a natural evolution of Mahindra’s established SUV design language. The stance, proportions and cabin layout are all in line with what Mahindra loyalists have come to expect. Even though it’s a born-electric SUV, it doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel for the sake of it. For many buyers, that’s reassuring.

Value That Goes Beyond Price

Feature-wise, the XEV 9e doesn’t compromise either. It offers the latest connected tech, a modern infotainment experience, advanced safety features and a cabin that feels premium without being flashy. Buyers see it as value for money, even at a higher price point, because it gives them space, size, technology and presence in one package.

The Practical All-Rounder

In a country where cars are expected to do it all, handle city traffic, take families on weekend trips, carry luggage and navigate poor roads, buyers tend to lean towards vehicles that promise maximum utility. The XEV 9e fits that mould well. It is a practical, big-hearted SUV that delivers across use cases without forcing the buyer to make any major compromises.

The BE 6, on the other hand, offers a different proposition with its emphasis on style and sportiness. But the XEV 9e is clearly speaking the language that most Indian buyers want to hear right now. It’s big, comfortable, versatile and confident. And that’s why, at least for now, it’s finding a home in more garages across the country.