The electric vehicle market in India is heating up, with brands competing to offer better features, affordability, and innovation. In this comparison, we pit the MG Windsor EV, MG's latest crossover, against the Mahindra XEV 9e, a premium electric SUV. Both cars promise exceptional value but cater to slightly different audiences. Let’s see how they stack up.
Design and Styling
MG Windsor EV:
- Features a clean, minimalist crossover design that feels modern and stylish.
- Connected LED lighting at the front and rear enhances its premium look.
- Flush-type door handles and 18-inch aerodynamic alloy wheels add futuristic touches.
- Four vibrant color options: Starburst Black, Pearl White, Clay Beige, and Turquoise Green.
Mahindra XEV 9e:
- Boasts a bold coupe-SUV design with aerodynamic lines and a distinctive roofline.
- Key highlights include flush door handles, illuminated logos, and connected LED DRLs.
- Dual-tone styling with aggressive wheel arches and a coupe-style roof.
- Rear wraparound LED tail lamps complete its sporty and premium look.
Verdict: The XEV 9e stands out for its edgy, coupe-inspired design, while the Windsor EV offers a clean, modern look with premium details.
Interior and Technology
MG Windsor EV:
- Luxurious all-black cabin with bronze and wooden inserts for a premium feel.
- Massive 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an 8.8-inch digital driver’s display.
- Exclusive features like an Infinity View Glass Roof, wireless charging, and reclining rear seats.
- Offers a generous 604-liter boot space for practicality.
Mahindra XEV 9e:
- Features a futuristic triple-screen layout with three 12.3-inch floating displays.
- AR head-up display, Harman Kardon 16-speaker audio system with Dolby Atmos.
- Premium touches like a panoramic sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and wireless connectivity.
- Spacious interior with a 665-liter boot and 150-liter frunk for added utility.
Verdict: While both EVs offer luxury and advanced tech, the Windsor EV excels in rear-passenger comfort, and the XEV 9e leads in tech sophistication and innovation.
Performance and Range
MG Windsor EV:
- Powered by a 38 kWh battery producing 134 bhp and 200 Nm of torque.
- Delivers an ARAI-certified range of 331 km.
- Four driving modes (Eco, Eco+, Normal, Sport) optimize performance.
- Accelerates 0-100 km/h in just 9.8 seconds.
- Top speed- 150 km/h.
- Charging times: 13.8 hours (3.3 kW AC), 6.5 hours (7.4 kW AC), and 55 minutes (50 kW DC).
Mahindra XEV 9e:
Two battery options:
- 59 kWh (231 hp, 450 km WLTP range).
- 79 kWh (286 hp, 656 km ARAI range).
- Accelerates 0-100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds.
- Top speed- 202 km/h.
- Fast charging: 20-80% in just 20 minutes via a 175 kW DC charger.
Verdict: The XEV 9e dominates in performance, offering faster acceleration and a longer range, making it ideal for enthusiasts who prioritize power and efficiency.
Safety and Advanced Features
MG Windsor EV:
- Equipped with Level-2 ADAS, including a 360-degree camera, six airbags, ESC, and TPMS.
- First-in-segment Lifetime Warranty on the battery pack for initial owners.
Mahindra XEV 9e:
- Features Level-2 ADAS with adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and emergency braking.
- Safety highlights include an AR head-up display and advanced driving assistance features.
Verdict: Both EVs offer robust safety systems, but the Windsor EV edges ahead with its industry-first lifetime battery warranty.
Pricing and Availability
MG Windsor EV:
Battery-included pricing:
- Excite: ₹13.49 lakh
- Exclusive: ₹14.49 lakh
- Essence: ₹15.49 lakh
Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS) pricing:
- Excite: ₹9.99 lakh
- Exclusive: ₹10.99 lakh
- Essence: ₹11.99 lakh
- Note: With BaaS, owners pay ₹3.5/km for battery usage, significantly reducing the upfront cost.
- Bookings open from October 3, 2024, with deliveries starting October 12, 2024.
Mahindra XEV 9e:
- Pricing starts at ₹21.90 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Deliveries are scheduled to begin in early 2025.
Final Thoughts
Both the MG Windsor EV and Mahindra XEV 9e cater to different buyer preferences. The MG Windsor EV's BaaS option makes it a highly accessible choice, starting at ₹9.99 lakh—comparable to ICE compact SUVs. This innovative pricing strategy is ideal for budget-conscious buyers. In contrast, the Mahindra XEV 9e is positioned as a premium offering, justifying its price with advanced features, a larger battery, and a longer range, making it a better option for those looking for performance and luxury.
