Mahindra has launched a new six-seat version of its XEV 9S electric SUV, introducing individual captain seats in the second row in place of the standard bench. The new configuration is aimed at buyers seeking a more premium cabin experience while retaining the electric SUV's existing battery choices, powertrain and feature package. The six-seat XEV 9S is offered on the Pack Two Above, Pack Three and Pack Three Above variants. Mahindra has positioned the new configuration as a premium alternative to the corresponding seven-seat versions, with the captain-seat arrangement creating more separation and space between second-row passengers.

Prices for the six-seat variants range from Rs 25.25 lakh to Rs 30.15 lakh, ex-showroom. Mahindra is charging a Rs 25,000 premium over equivalent seven-seat versions of the electric SUV. This relatively small price difference allows buyers to opt for the additional seating configuration without a substantial increase in the vehicle's overall cost. The six-seat layout is available with both battery options offered with the XEV 9S. The SUV is built on Mahindra's INGLO electric vehicle platform, which underpins the company's newer generation of electric SUVs. With the new configuration, buyers can therefore choose between the available battery options without giving up the more premium second-row seating arrangement.

Importantly, the introduction of the six-seat version does not bring mechanical changes to the XEV 9S. The powertrain remains unchanged, as does the SUV's existing feature list. The primary difference is the replacement of the second-row bench with two individual captain seats, making the new version a seating and cabin-focused update rather than a technical revision. The captain-seat configuration can offer greater individual comfort for second-row passengers, particularly on longer journeys. It also changes the cabin experience by providing a more lounge-like arrangement compared with a conventional three-passenger bench. The six-seat format may therefore appeal to buyers who prioritise rear-seat comfort over carrying maximum passengers.

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The new configuration also expands the choice available to customers considering the XEV 9S. Buyers who need maximum passenger capacity can continue with the seven-seat layout, while those who prefer a more premium second row can pay the additional Rs 25,000 for the six-seat version. Mahindra's decision to introduce the six-seat option comes as electric SUVs increasingly offer multiple cabin configurations to cater to different customer preferences. Seating flexibility is particularly relevant in larger SUVs, where buyers may have to balance passenger capacity with comfort and interior space.

With the launch of the six-seat version, the XEV 9S now offers a more premium seating alternative without changes to its core electric vehicle package. The new variants retain the same battery options, platform, powertrain and features, while the captain seats distinguish them from their seven-seat counterparts. The six-seat Mahindra XEV 9S is priced between Rs 25.25 lakh and Rs 30.15 lakh, ex-showroom, depending on the variant and battery option. With the Rs 25,000 premium over equivalent seven-seat versions, the new configuration gives customers another way to tailor the electric SUV to their preferred balance of passenger capacity and cabin comfort.

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