Here’s an in-depth, richly detailed overview of the three new Mahindra compact SUVs recently spotted undergoing testing—featuring their latest designs, powertrains, timelines, and strategic positioning.
1. Mahindra Vision S (Production Porsche of SUV)
What’s Spotted & What’s It Based On?
The prototype spotted seems to be the production-spec version of the Vision S concept, first unveiled in August 2025. This vehicle showcases a boxy stance, tailgate-mounted spare wheel, rugged profile, and squared-off arches that closely mirror the original concept’s design. Carlelo reports that testing is well underway, with appearances matching the conceptual geometry almost identically
Platform & Timelines
This SUV will ride on Mahindra’s all-new NU.IQ modular platform—a highly flexible architecture intended for a variety of vehicle types. Mahindra is rolling out NU.IQ–based SUVs from 2027 onward, and the Vision S-based model is projected to be the first to launch, potentially debuting in late 2026.
Design & Features
- Exterior: The test mule retains key concept cues, including bold, vertical LED lights (at least on the electric version), chunky cladding, and overall rugged form. The production model may tone down the triple trapezoidal LEDs for a more conventional setup.
- Interior: Limited visibility in spy shots, but expectations are for a clean, modern cabin featuring dual digital screens separated by AC vents and physical control buttons—echoing the concept layout.
Powertrain Prospects
While details remain limited, Mahindra is likely to offer multiple variants—petrol, diesel, and even hybrid. They may utilize existing engines such as the 1.2 L turbo petrol and 1.5 L turbo diesel, with the hybrid pairing the 1.2 L turbo with electric motors.
2. Mahindra XEV 9e (All-Electric Coupé-SUV)
What Is It?
The XEV 9e is an electric SUV built on the INGLO electric skateboard platform. Spotted testing in prototype form, its coupé-like silhouette and XUV700-inspired styling stand out—even through camouflage.
Launch & Platform
Part of Mahindra’s electric offensive, the XEV 9e launched in late 2024, with popularity reflected in deliveries exceeding 10,000 units in 70 days. It’s built on the INGLO platform, which underpins Mahindra’s new electric SUVs.
Performance & Specs
- Battery Options: 59 kWh and 79 kWh packs using BYD Blade Battery technology.
- Power & Range:
- 59 kWh: ~231 PS, 380 Nm, ~542 km WLTP
- 79 kWh: ~286 PS, ~656 km WLTP.
- Charging Support:
- AC via 7.2 kW / 11.2 kW wallbox
- Fast DC up to 180 kW.
Design & Positioning
The design borrows heavily from the XUV700, featuring a panoramic glass roof, sleek coupe lines, and substantial boot space (~663 L). It’s marketed as a premium electric offering—not merely functional, but luxurious.
Strategic Role
Part of a broader electric push—Mahindra expects 20–30% of SUV sales to be electric by 2027, targeting ~5 million units annually by 2026 through investments, more models, and market penetration.
3. Mahindra BE 6 (Electric Compact Crossover)
Model Overview
The BE 6 is a compact electric crossover—also built on the INGLO platform—introduced alongside the XEV 9e. It represents Mahindra’s more mainstream electric offering.
Specs & Figures
- Battery & Power:
- 59 kWh: ~231 hp, 380 Nm, ARAI range ~556 km
- 79 kWh: ~286 hp, 380 Nm, range ~682 km.
- Dimensions: ~4.37 m length, ~2.77 m wheelbase; RWD layout with rear motor.
- Variants & Pricing: Prices range from ₹18.90 lakh to ₹26.90 lakh (ex-showroom), with multiple variant packs and deliveries beginning mid‑2025.
Features & Safety
As per recent reporting, the BE 6 packs advanced tech—dual 12.3‑inch screens, MAIA AI with Snapdragon chipset, up to 24 GB RAM, single-pedal driving, adjustable regen braking, and fast DC charging (20–80% in 20 minutes). Safety is strong, with a 5‑star Bharat NCAP rating, multiple airbags, and optional Level‑2 ADAS.
Summary Table
| SUV Model | Platform | Powertrain Options | Expected Launch | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vision S | NU.IQ | Petrol / Diesel / Hybrid | Late 2026 / 2027 | Boxy design, modern cabin, new modular ICE platform |
| XEV 9e | INGLO (EV) | Electric (59 kWh / 79 kWh) | 2024–present | Coupé styling, high WLTP range, premium electric SUV |
| BE 6 | INGLO (EV) | Electric (59 kWh / 79 kWh) | Mid‑2025 onward | Compact crossover, advanced tech, mass-market EV appeal |
Strategic Implications for Mahindra
1. Platform Diversification
- NU.IQ platform enables futuristic ICE/hybrid SUVs like the Vision S, combining modular flexibility with progressive design.
- INGLO platform powers electric SUV growth, underpinning both high-end (XEV 9e) and mainstream (BE 6) offerings.
2. EV Portfolio Expansion
Mahindra is rapidly expanding its electric range with compelling, high-performing models. The XEV 9e targets premium urban buyers, while the BE 6 seeks volume from mainstream compact SUV customers—aligning with India’s broader EV adoption push.
3. Design Evolution
- The Vision S signals a return to rugged, upright SUVs, catering to both heritage-focused buyers and modern preferences.
- The XEV 9e adopts sleek, coupe-inspired lines to appeal to style-conscious EV adopters.
- The BE 6 balances contemporary crossover aesthetics with smart packaging.
4. Market Positioning
- BE 6 is priced competitively (~₹19–27 lakh), supported by a strong range and luxury features—positioned to become a mainstream EV contender.
Summary
These three spotted models epitomize Mahindra’s evolving strategy—embracing EVs while maintaining strong ICE/hybrid offerings through advanced platforms like NU.IQ. The Vision S, XEV 9e, and BE 6 serve different customer segments but collectively reinforce Mahindra’s comprehensive SUV dominance across India’s future automotive landscape.
If you’d like, I can dive deeper into any one of these models—design, pricing scenarios, competitor comparisons, or expected variant breakdowns—just say the word!