We compare the Mahindra XEV 9S and the Kia Carens Clavis EV to determine which stands out in power, features, and affordability.
By Sanorita

The Mahindra XEV 9S has entered India’s EV segment, with prices ranging from Rs 19.95 lakh to Rs 29.45 lakh (ex-showroom). While the three-row e-SUV doesn’t have a direct competitor, it can serve as a strong alternative to Kia’s popular MPV, the Carens Clavis.
Not only does the XEV 9S offer three rows of seating, but it also comes with multiple powerful battery options and long range, which makes it an enticing option for buyers seeking a perfect combination of practicality and performance. We compare the Mahindra XEV 9S and the Carens Clavis EV to determine which stands out in power, features, and affordability.

The Mahindra XEV 9S starts at Rs 19.95 lakh, around Rs 1.96 lakh more than the Kia Carens Clavis EV’s Rs 17.99 lakh. At the top end, it reaches Rs 29.45 lakh, roughly Rs 5 lakh above the Carens Clavis EV’s Rs 24.49 lakh top-spec model.

The Mahindra XEV 9S outshines the Kia Carens Clavis EV with more power, longer range, and faster charging. It comes with three battery options: 59kWh (228bhp), 70kWh (242bhp), and 79kWh (282bhp). All of them offer rear-wheel drive. While the power outputs are different, these battery packs generate the same torque output of 380Nm.
Also Read: Mahindra XEV 9S Variants Explained: Features, Specs and Price Breakdown
On the other hand, the Kia Carens Clavis EV offers only two battery options: 42kWh (133bhp) and 51.4kWh (169bhp). The torque value is the same for both versions at 255Nm. The Carens Clavis EV uses a front‑wheel‑drive layout.

While the XEV 9S clearly leads in power, it also outperforms the Carens Clavis EV in range. Its largest 79kWh battery claims 679 kilometres, compared to the Carens’ maximum of 490 kilometres. As for the charging, the XEV 9S can go from 20% to 80% in 20 minutes with a 180 kW DC charger. Meanwhile, the Carens Clavis EV takes 39 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% using a 100 kW DC charger.
The Mahindra SUV can reach 0–100km/h in 7 seconds, compared to the Kia Carens Clavis EV, which takes around 8.4 seconds.
The Mahindra XEV 9S offers a more SUV‑oriented and spacious footprint compared to the Kia Carens Clavis EV. At 4,737mm long and 1,900mm wide, the XEV 9S is slightly longer and wider than the Carens, which measures 4,550mm in length and 1,800mm in width. Both have a seven‑seat layout, but the XEV 9S also boasts a bit higher ground clearance of 201mm versus the Carens’ 200mm. That said, the XEV 9S has a shorter wheelbase at 2762mm, compared to the Kia MPV, which is slightly longer at 2780mm.
| Dimensions | Mahindra XEV 9S | Kia Carens Clavis EV | Difference |
| Length | 4.737mm | 4,550mm | +187mm |
| Width | 1,900mm | 1,800 | +100mm |
| Height | 1,747mm | 1,730mm | +17mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,762mm | 2,780mm | -18mm |
| Ground Clearance | 201mm | 200mm | +1mm |
| Wheels (inches) | 18 | 16/17 | |
| Frunk | 150 litres | 25 litres | +125 litres |
| Boot/Cargo | up to 527 litres | 216 litres | +311 litres |
The XEV 9S comes with 18‑inch wheels, a 150‑litre frunk, and up to 527‑litre boot. In contrast, the Carens Clavis EV offers 16‑ or 17‑inch wheel size options, a 25‑litre frunk, and a cargo space of 216 litres.

While both EVs come loaded with technology, the Mahindra XEV 9S positions itself as a step above the Kia Carens Clavis EV with triple 12.3-inch screens, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon setup, AR head-up display, and a lounge desk. It also comes with up to seven airbags, and Level 2+ ADAS with up to five radars, compared to the Carens’ six airbags and Level 2 system.

Also Read: Mahindra XEV 9S Launched in India at Rs 19.95 Lakh
The Kia Carens Clavis EV is well-equipped with dual 12.25-inch screens, an 8-speaker BOSE system, and paddle shifters for regen braking.