While EVs have started to catch the fancy of the Indian buyer, the big issue is the lack of choice available in the sub 25 lakh space. Mahindra plans a slew of EVs for us and the XUV400 is the start with 2024 seeing the launch of the updated version. This is a big update and changes this product in terms of positioning while Mahindra has also made it more value for money.
Externally, the XUV400 does not get many changes with a shark fin antenna and a new EV badge being the only updates. However, there wasn't much needed anyways in terms of changes as the XUV400 is well proportioned (being above 4m) and gets a healthy dose of copper accents throughout the exterior along with a dual-tone option.
The bigger changes are on the inside and major ones include a new dual-tone colour scheme which makes the cabin more airy along with looking more premium than the earlier all-black look. There is also a new Scorpio N-like steering wheel (with a blue outline logo) which again looks better along with new dual screens. There is a new digital instrument cluster which looks slick and can be configurable along with sporting the navigation view as well. The digital instrument cluster also shows basic EV info and now adds a tyre pressure monitoring system too.
Then we move to the 10.25inch touchscreen which is new and gets new physical shortcut buttons as well. There is also the latest Adrenox system and connected tech as well. The layout/display is similar to the XUV700 with in-built apps. If we talk about features, aside from the new screens, you get dual-zone climate control, drive modes, a rear camera, sunroof and more. We would have liked a powered handbrake or a 360-degree camera though.
Move to the rear seat and that's where the real highlight of the XUV400 is due to its space on offer. It is easily the most spacious EV below 25 lakh and three can comfortably sit at the back along with individual headrests too. Mahindra has also added a charging port, a storage space and rear AC vents. Even the boot space is the highest in class.
To test the XUV400 Pro we took it way beyond the usual EV test of just going around the concrete jungle as we took it to the hills along with testing its toughness. Mechanically, the XUV400 Pro continues with its 150 bhp/310Nm motor along with two battery packs but now you can get the smaller battery pack with the top-end trim with all features. We had the larger 39.4 kWh battery pack which would give you a real-world range from 270-300km depending on the way you drive.
There are three drive modes and one L mode for max regen. We mostly drove it in the Fun mode which offers enough acceleration and you are not wanting for more. It feels quick and easy to drive and the ground clearance posed no issues while tackling rough roads on hilly terrain, the XUV400 in fact felt tough with a degree of off-road ability dialled in. Move the premium-looking gear selector and the L mode is handy to keep the range in check and it does offer strong regen even if it is not customisable.
To drive, the XUV400 Pro remains tough and an EV can take over the rough stuff without scraping or damaging its battery pack while the performance is strong too. Now, with the features being added and the new price, it is way better value for money and remains the most spacious EV too. Hence, for the price, the XUV400 Pro offers a lot for your money and could tempt you to look at it as a petrol compact SUV alternative too.
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