2024 Mahindra XUV400 EL Pro Review: Better Interior, New Features and a Price Cut

Just a little over a year after we first drove the XUV400, Mahindra launched the XUV400 EL Pro and the EC Pro. The key focus here is the ‘Pro’ suffix. You see, typically when a product receives such a designation, it implies that it has reached the height of its capabilities – in other words, it has become the best version of itself. So, to justify this designation, the Indian carmaker has made an array of changes to the electric SUV, thereby bringing it on par with its rivals. The question, however, remains – is the new XUV400 the best it can be?

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Mahindra XUV400 EL Pro Review: What’s Changed?

Now, the sole exterior change is the addition of a new colour option, called Nebula Blue. However, the unit we tested was finished in Everest White, with a Copper roof. While it’s not the most modern design, it also doesn’t look old. The copper finish adorning the exterior actually makes it stand out amid a sea of monotone cars. It is only when juxtaposed with truly a contemporary design, for instance, that of the new the Tata Punch EV – you can read about it here – that you realise the age of the XUV400’s design.

Unlike the exterior, the interior has undergone a significant transformation. The shift to the beige theme from the previous black of the older model makes a world of difference to the overall ambience of the car. While the interior space is the same as before, its perception has changed quite a bit – it now seems to be more spacious than before. Another notable transformation comes in the form of the screens. Both the instrument cluster and the touchscreen have been updated and now run the Adrenox system, which was introduced with the XUV700. The graphics of the instrument cluster bear a close resemblance to that of the bigger SUV, apart from the elements that highlight its ‘EV’ nature. The displays are crisp and offer good contrast; even the touch response of the infotainment screen is excellent. While the visual aspect of the overall audio-visual experience is commendable, the same cannot be said about the audio side of things. The quality of the speakers is passable at best, but the biggest problem is the clarity of the audio, particularly when playing bass-rich tracks at high volume.

The EV also gets wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; however, Mahindra says they will be added later through OTA updates for the system’s firmware. The centre console has also been reworked – while it retains aspects of the previous interactions, it now has a new button layout, giving it a bit bolder appearance and making it easier to use.

At the back, the XUV400 now has rear AC vents, charging options for smartphones, and a storage slot, all of which are significant updates. Lastly, Mahindra has also reorganised the variant line-up, now offering the smaller 34.5kWh battery pack with all the top-end features. This means that if you want a fully loaded EV for urban commuting with all the bells and whistles, you’ll find the XUV400 to be well-equipped for the job.

Mahindra XUV400 EL Pro Review: Driving Experience

Mechanically, nothing has changed, which is good, for the driving experience of the XUV400 was already pretty sorted and refined. There are three driving modes on offer – Fun, Fast, and Fearless – each modifying the car’s behaviour. The Fun mode is the most sedate mode, suitable for most urban driving scenarios, with linear throttle response and a capped top speed of about 90km/h. If you are looking for a little more excitement, you can switch to the Fast mode, which sharpens the electric motor’s response and removes the top-speed limit, making it suitable for both city and highway driving. The Fearless mode, on the other hand, unleashes the motor’s full potential, which makes it suitable only for those scenarios that demand rapid acceleration and should not be engaged in normal driving conditions, for the throttle response in this mode becomes a bit erratic. Mahindra has integrated regenerative braking into the drive modes, with the Fun mode offering the most aggressive setting, which gradually reduces as you climb up the driving modes.

The main highlight of the XUV400 continues to be its ride quality. With its plush suspension setup, driving on the roads of Delhi NCR was a breeze – there was not even a single instance when it was pushed to its limits. In fact, the soft suspension actually allows you to go over speed breakers without any need to reduce to crawling speeds. Now, this does compromise the handling side of things a bit, but if you are just cruising around, you will hardly notice any difference. It’s only when pushing the vehicle through winding roads with your foot down that you will notice that the XUV400 struggles to keep up.

Mahindra XUV400 EL Pro Review: Verdict

The phrase ‘better late than never’ perfectly encapsulates Mahindra’s effort with the XUV400 Pro. With a substantial price reduction, the addition of several feel-good features, and the introduction of a new colour option, Mahindra has undeniably revitalised its offering. That said, one look at its rivals, like the Nexon EV, the MG ZS EV, or even the newly launched Punch EV, is enough to realise the need for more substantial updates in bringing the XUV400 in line with contemporary standards. It appears that Mahindra’s vision for modern EVs is reserved for its upcoming electric offerings, set to make appearances throughout the year. In the meantime, however, if you are looking for a comfortable, easy-to-drive electric SUV, the XUV400 indeed is a compelling option.