Here’s how the newly-launched Tesla Model Y stacks up against the Mahindra XEV 9e on multiple parameters, including design, performance, and price.
By Sanorita
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Elon Musk-led Tesla has entered India with the Model Y, offered exclusively in a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration. The U.S.-made electric SUV is available in two variants—Standard and Long Range—with a WLTP-certified range of up to 622 kilometres. It has a starting price of Rs 59.89 lakh (ex-showroom), which makes it an expensive option compared to several Indian EVs that boast similar or even greater range, bold styling, and tech-loaded cabins. One of its key rivals is Mahindra’s XEV 9e from the Born Electric lineup. In this comparison, we take a closer look at how the Tesla Model Y stacks up against the Mahindra SUV to determine which one offers better value and suitability for Indian buyers.

Both the Tesla Model Y and the Mahindra XEV 9e have a modern and futuristic design. The Tesla EV’s front is sleek and uncluttered, including slender LED daytime running lights connected by a light strip.
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The contoured bumper adds to the sporty look. Other prominent details include flush door handles, 19-inch black alloy wheels, and connected LED taillights.
Also Read: Tesla Model Y India Launch: Compared to Ioniq 5, EV6, BMW iX1 LWB & BYD Sealion 7
In contrast, the Mahindra SUV’s front is bold, with striking triangular headlights, a full-width LED daytime running light, and Mahindra's glowing ‘Infinity’ logo. The rear design boasts distinctive inverted L-shaped taillights and a sporty roof spoiler, all contributing to its flowing coupe-style profile.

With standard 19-inch wheels and optional 20-inch aero alloys, the XEV 9e reflects a more expressive and aggressive design compared to the Model Y's simplicity.
The Tesla Model Y comes standard with an all-black theme. However, buyers can opt for a dual-tone black and white cabin by paying an additional Rs 95,000. A centrally mounted 15.4-inch touchscreen acts as the control hub for nearly all vehicle functions. It is complemented by a slim three-spoke steering wheel with intuitive controls. The spacious centre console is thoughtfully laid out, featuring hidden storage compartments as well as an integrated wireless charging pad. At the rear, the seats are reclinable, and passengers benefit from dedicated AC vents and an 8-inch touchscreen.

Other amenities are a 9-speaker sound system, a built-in dashcam, and multiple airbags. For buyers seeking cutting-edge driving tech, Tesla offers its Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability as an optional add-on for Rs 6 lakh.
In contrast, the Mahindra electric SUV sports a perfect balance of modern aesthetics and luxurious amenities. The cabin sports a distinctive two-spoke steering wheel, illuminated with the Infinity logo. The dashboard has a layered design, while the centre console houses drive mode selectors, the gear shifter, cupholders, and wireless charging pads, all connecting smoothly to the armrest. Other highlights are a triple-screen setup, multi-zone climate control, a panoramic glass roof with ambient lighting, a 1,400-watt 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and an augmented reality head-up display.

In terms of safety, the Mahindra SUV has 7 airbags as standard, ISOFIX child seat mounts, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), an electronic parking brake, and a Level 2 ADAS. The electric SUV also has a Park Assist feature.
The XEV 9e measures 4,789mm in length, 1,907mm in width, and 1,694mm in height, showing a slightly taller and narrower stance. In comparison, the Tesla Model Y is marginally longer at 4,790mm, significantly wider at 1,982mm, but shorter in height at 1,624mm.
Tesla has kept battery and motor details under wraps, but revealed performance numbers. The standard RWD variant claims a range of up to 500 kilometres (WLTP) and a 0–100km/h sprint time of 5.9 seconds. Meanwhile, the Long Range RWD version has a range of 622 kilometres and faster acceleration of 5.6 seconds. In contrast, Mahindra offers two battery packs: a 59kWh unit with 227bhp, and a larger 79kWh option paired with a 282bhp motor.
Also Read: Tesla Is Officially in India! Model Y Launched, Priced from Rs 59.89 Lakh
The Mahindra SUV offers a longer range compared to the Tesla Model Y, with a 59kWh battery providing up to 557 kilometres and a 79kWh pack delivering 656 kilometres of certified range. The 0-100km/h sprint time of 6.8 seconds stands for the top variant.
The Mahindra XEV 9e is an affordable option in India’s premium EV segment compared to the Tesla Model Y, with prices ranging between Rs 21.90 lakh and Rs 31.25 lakh (ex-showroom). In comparison, the Tesla Model Y is priced at Rs 59.89 lakh for the standard rear-wheel-drive variant and Rs 67.89 lakh for the Long Range version.