KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Specification comparison between Kia Carens EV vs Mahindra XEV 9S
- Carens EV top variant with XEV 9S second variant
- MPV or SUV? Which 7-seater suits you better
Mahindra XEV 9S, the newly launched premium SUV, is Mahindra's first-ever 7-seater in an electric avatar. It is essentially an extension of the XEV 9e but built on the XUV700's body. Priced intelligently between Rs 19.95 lakh and Rs 29.45 lakh, the XEV 9S offers strong value for buyers looking for a 7-seat electric SUV. In this price range, there's also another option from Kia - the Carens Clavis EV. So, let's compare both and see which one makes more sense.
Also Read: Mahindra XEV 9S Launched At Rs 19.95 Lakh - Three Row E-SUV
Kia Carens Clavis EV vs Mahindra XEV 9S
Before comparing, let's take a look at the prices. The Carens Clavis EV starts at Rs 18 lakh, while the top variant costs Rs 24.49 lakh (ex-showroom). It comes with two battery options - 42 kWh and 51.4 kWh - and follows an MPV body style. On the other hand, the Mahindra XEV 9S, a proper SUV, starts at Rs 19.95 lakh, with the top variant priced at Rs 29.45 lakh. It offers three battery pack options: 59 kWh, 70 kWh, and 79 kWh. For this comparison, we"ll evaluate the top variant of the Clavis EV against the 70 kWh 'Pack Two Above' variant of the XEV 9S to determine which 7-seater offers better value.
Dimensions
| Dimensions | XEV 9S | Clavis EV |
| Length | 4737 mm | 4550 mm |
| Width | 1900 mm | 1800 mm |
| Height | 1747 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2762 mm | 2780 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 205 mm | 200 mm |
| Boot Space | 280L | 216L |
| Frunk | 150L | 20L |
In terms of dimensions, the Mahindra XEV 9S clearly stands larger in almost every aspect, offering more length, width and overall height than the Carens Clavis EV. While the Clavis EV does have a slightly longer wheelbase, the XEV 9S provides better ground clearance, a significantly larger boot (280L vs 216L) and a far more practical frunk (150L vs 20L). This size advantage aligns with their design identities - the Clavis EV is an MPV focused on maximising cabin space and family comfort, whereas the other vehicle is a full-fledged SUV with a more commanding stance, added practicality and stronger road presence.
Battery Packs
| Specifications | Clavis EV | XEV 9S |
| Battery Pack | 51.4 kWh | 70 kWh |
| Power | 171 PS | 244 PS |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Drivetype | FWD | RWD |
| Range | 490 Km | 600 Km |
| AC Fast Charging | 4h 45 min (11 KW) | 7h (11.2 KW) / 10.2h (7.2 KW) |
| DC Fast Charging | 39 min (100 KW) | 20 min (160 kW) |
In the battery and performance department, the Mahindra holds a clear advantage with its larger 70 kWh pack, stronger 244 PS/380 Nm output, and a longer 600 km range. The Clavis EV's 51.4 kWh battery and 171 PS setup are suitable for everyday family use but not as powerful. The XEV 9S also charges quicker on DC (20 minutes at 160 kW), while the Clavis offers faster AC charging. Overall, the Mahindra feels more capable and long-range ready, whereas the Kia is tuned more for urban efficiency.
Features
Mahindra XEV 9S
The Pack Two Above is loaded with premium features, including soft-wrapped interiors, leatherette upholstery, dual-zone auto AC, ventilated front seats, a powered driver seat, and a panoramic "Infinity Roof." It gets Coast-to-Coast triple screens, 5G connectivity, built-in Alexa and ChatGPT, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon system with Dolby Atmos, and a full 360 camera with recording.
Safety is comprehensive with 6 airbags, ESP, TPMS, and an advanced ADAS suite. Practical touches like a 150L frunk with drain hole, 2nd and 3rd-row recline, multiple fast-charging Type-C ports, connected-car features, OTA updates, multi-drive modes, and single-pedal driving further make this a highly equipped 7-seat electric SUV.
Kia Carens Clavis EV
The top HTK+ ER variant stands out with V2L (vehicle-to-load) capability for both interior and exterior use, Level 2 ADAS with 20 features, 17-inch dual-tone aero alloys, a panoramic sunroof and an 8-speaker Bose premium sound system. It also gets Kia's signature dual 12.25-inch screens, multiple drive modes, active air flaps, 64-colour ambient lighting and several additional comfort and tech features.
Verdict
Both EVs can handle long trips with a family of seven, but they serve different priorities. The Mahindra XEV 9S offers more power, range and SUV capability, making it the stronger choice for buyers who want performance and versatility. The Carens Clavis EV, meanwhile, should deliver a more comfortable and smoother ride thanks to its MPV-oriented setup - and though we haven't tested the XEV 9S yet, the Carens' ride quality is likely to feel more family-friendly. So, while the XEV 9S excels in strength and tech, the Clavis EV makes equal sense for those who value comfort and a relaxed, cushioned drive for long journeys.
