In the rapidly evolving landscape of electric mobility in India, two homegrown automotive giants have established themselves as frontrunners with their compelling electric SUV offerings. The Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400 EV have become the face of accessible electric mobility for Indian consumers seeking to make the transition to sustainable transportation. As we navigate through 2025, the competition between these two electric champions has intensified, with both manufacturers constantly upgrading their offerings to outdo each other. But which of these electric SUVs truly offers better value for your hard-earned money? Let’s dive deep into this electrifying battle.
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The Evolution of Electric SUVs in India
The journey of electric vehicles in India has been nothing short of remarkable. What began as a niche segment with limited options has transformed into a thriving market segment with multiple players vying for consumer attention. At the forefront of this revolution are Tata Motors and Mahindra, two companies with deep roots in the Indian automotive industry.
Tata Motors took the early initiative with the launch of the Nexon EV in 2020, establishing itself as a pioneer in the affordable electric SUV segment. The Nexon EV quickly gained popularity, becoming the best-selling electric car in India. Its success can be attributed to Tata’s strategic approach of converting an already popular ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) model into an electric variant, thereby leveraging existing production infrastructure and customer familiarity.
Not to be outdone, Mahindra entered the electric SUV arena with the XUV400 EV, a vehicle that borrowed its foundation from the XUV300 but was specially engineered for electric propulsion. Mahindra’s expertise in electric mobility, dating back to the acquisition of Reva Electric Car Company (now Mahindra Electric), gave it a solid platform to develop a competitive electric SUV.
As we stand in 2025, both these electric SUVs have undergone significant transformations, incorporating the latest in battery technology, connected features, and driving dynamics. Let’s examine how they stack up against each other across various parameters.
Design and Dimensions: Size Matters
When it comes to physical presence, the Mahindra XUV400 EV clearly has the upper hand. Unlike internal combustion engine vehicles that benefit from tax incentives for being under 4 meters in length, electric vehicles aren’t bound by such restrictions. Mahindra has capitalized on this by extending the XUV400 EV to 4.2 meters, making it noticeably larger than the sub-4-meter Tata Nexon EV, which maintains its compact dimensions at 3,993mm.
The XUV400 EV isn’t just longer; it’s also wider and taller than the Nexon EV, resulting in a more commanding road presence. The added length translates to a more spacious cabin and a larger boot capacity of 378 liters compared to the Nexon EV’s 350 liters. This dimensional advantage gives the XUV400 EV a clear edge for customers who prioritize space and practicality.
In terms of design language, the Nexon EV showcases Tata’s modern and futuristic approach with its 2023 facelift bringing a connected LED lighting setup, sequential turn indicators, and stylish 16-inch alloy wheels. The front fascia features a sleek, closed-off grille that instantly identifies it as an electric vehicle. The coupe-like silhouette of the Nexon EV, with its floating roof design, gives it a sporty and contemporary appearance that appeals to younger buyers.
The XUV400 EV, while larger, adopts a more conventional SUV design. It maintains the muscular stance of its ICE counterpart but incorporates distinct elements like copper accents (Mahindra’s signature color for electric vehicles) on the grille, roof rails, and other exterior elements. The XUV400 EV doesn’t try to be overly futuristic; instead, it focuses on a robust and utilitarian design philosophy that resonates with traditional SUV enthusiasts.
Both SUVs offer multiple color options, with the Nexon EV providing some exclusive shades like Pristine White with a Sonic Silver roof and Fearless Purple. The XUV400 EV counters with its own distinctive color palette, including the eye-catching Galaxy Grey with a copper roof option.
Interior Comfort and Features: Technology Showdown
Step inside these electric SUVs, and the difference in their approach to interior design becomes immediately apparent. The Tata Nexon EV, particularly after its 2023 facelift, boasts a thoroughly modern and tech-focused cabin. The centerpiece is a floating 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system complemented by a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. The two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated Tata logo adds a premium touch.
Material quality in the Nexon EV has improved significantly with the facelift, featuring soft-touch materials on the dashboard and leatherette upholstery. The ventilated front seats, a feature rarely found in this price segment, provide welcome relief during India’s hot summers. The panoramic sunroof, another segment-first feature, enhances the sense of space and airiness in the cabin.
The Mahindra XUV400 EV’s interior, while spacious, reflects its origins as a vehicle designed initially for internal combustion engines. The dashboard layout appears more conventional and, frankly, somewhat dated compared to the Nexon EV. The 2024 update did bring improvements with a larger touchscreen infotainment system and a digital driver’s display, but the overall design still lags behind the Nexon EV in terms of modernity.
However, what the XUV400 EV lacks in design flair, it makes up for with practical features. The rear bench is wider and more accommodating for three adults, a distinct advantage over the Nexon EV’s rear seat, which is more suited for two passengers with its contoured design. The XUV400 EV also boasts marginally better rear legroom, making it more comfortable for taller passengers.
Where the Nexon EV clearly pulls ahead is in feature count. It offers a comprehensive package including wireless phone charging, air purifier, JBL audio system with subwoofer, 360-degree camera, front parking sensors, electronic parking brake with auto hold, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The XUV400 EV, despite recent updates, still misses out on several of these features, most notably rear AC vents and charging ports – a significant oversight for a family SUV in the Indian climate.
Performance and Driving Dynamics: Electrifying Experience
The essence of an electric vehicle lies in its performance, and both these SUVs deliver an exhilarating driving experience that challenges conventional perceptions about electric mobility.
The Tata Nexon EV Long Range comes equipped with a 40.5 kWh battery pack that powers an electric motor producing 145 hp and 215 Nm of torque. These figures translate to a claimed 0-100 km/h time of around 8.9 seconds and an ARAI-certified range of 465 km on a single charge.
The Mahindra XUV400 EV counters with a slightly smaller 39.4 kWh battery pack but outputs higher performance figures – 150 hp and a substantial 310 Nm of torque. This gives the XUV400 EV a marginally quicker acceleration time, completing the 0-100 km/h sprint in about 8.3 seconds, with a claimed range of 456 km.
In real-world testing, the XUV400 EV maintains its slight performance edge over the Nexon EV in straight-line acceleration, but the difference is minimal – approximately half a second in most performance metrics. Both SUVs have electronically limited top speeds, with the XUV400 EV maxing out at slightly higher speeds than the Nexon EV.
Where the driving experience differs significantly is in the character of these electric SUVs. The Nexon EV offers more refined and progressive power delivery, making it easier to modulate in urban conditions. Its regenerative braking system can be adjusted independently of the drive modes, providing greater flexibility to the driver. The braking performance is also slightly superior, with the Nexon EV recording shorter stopping distances from both 80 km/h and 100 km/h in controlled testing.
The XUV400 EV delivers its power with more aggression, providing an instant surge that can be thrilling but sometimes challenging to modulate in city traffic. Its regenerative braking is tied to the drive modes, offering less customization. However, the XUV400 EV does provide an L (Low) mode on the drive selector that significantly increases regeneration, enabling one-pedal driving – a feature that the Nexon EV cannot match.
The ride and handling characteristics of these SUVs reveal their different philosophies. The XUV400 EV offers a more comfort-oriented setup with a softer suspension that excels at absorbing city road imperfections. The light steering, while lacking feedback, makes urban maneuverability effortless. However, this comfort-focused setup results in more body roll and less confidence at highway speeds.
The Nexon EV, with its firmer suspension tuning, delivers better body control and more engaging handling on highways and twisty roads. The steering is more direct and communicative, inspiring greater confidence during spirited driving. The trade-off is a slightly firmer low-speed ride that can feel unsettled over sharp bumps and potholes.
Range and Charging: The Real-World Experience
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of any electric vehicle is its range and charging capabilities – factors that directly impact the daily usability and practicality of these SUVs.
On paper, the Tata Nexon EV Long Range holds a slight advantage with its ARAI-certified range of 465 km compared to the XUV400 EV’s 456 km. However, as most EV owners will attest, real-world range often differs significantly from claimed figures.
In independent testing under mixed driving conditions involving city roads, highways, and varied terrain, the Nexon EV delivered approximately 273 km on a full charge, while the XUV400 EV managed around 251 km. These figures, while considerably lower than the claimed ranges, are still practical for daily urban commutes with occasional weekend getaways, provided charging infrastructure is accessible.
Both SUVs employ different strategies when battery levels drop critically low. The Nexon EV begins limiting air conditioning performance and motor output when the state of charge falls below 25 percent to maximize remaining range. The XUV400 EV takes a different approach, entering a limp mode only when the charge drops below 12 percent, and even then, it only restricts top speed without compromising acceleration or climate control.
Charging infrastructure is another critical consideration. Both SUVs come with a 7.2 kW AC home charger that can fully replenish the battery overnight. For fast charging, the XUV400 EV has an edge with its ability to accept up to 45 kW DC fast charging, compared to the Nexon EV’s approximately 30 kW limit. This translates to quicker charging stops during long journeys – a significant advantage for those planning regular intercity travel.
An interesting technical distinction between these SUVs is their battery chemistry. The Nexon EV employs LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) batteries, known for their durability, thermal stability, and longer cycle life. The XUV400 EV uses NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) batteries, which offer higher energy density but potentially shorter lifespans. Both manufacturers provide an 8-year battery warranty, but the different battery chemistries could influence long-term ownership experience and residual values.
Practicality and Ownership Experience: The Long-Term Perspective
Beyond the technical specifications and features, the ownership experience plays a crucial role in determining the value proposition of these electric SUVs.
Tata Motors has established a solid reputation in the electric vehicle space with the Nexon EV, having sold over 50,000 units since its launch. This large owner base has resulted in extensive real-world feedback that Tata has incorporated into subsequent updates. The widespread Tata service network across India provides peace of mind for Nexon EV owners, even in smaller cities and towns.
Mahindra, while newer to the mass-market electric vehicle segment, brings its robust SUV expertise and customer service infrastructure to the XUV400 EV. The company’s focus on creating a dedicated ecosystem for electric vehicles, including partnerships for charging infrastructure, demonstrates its long-term commitment to electric mobility.
In terms of after-sales costs, both manufacturers offer relatively low maintenance for their electric SUVs – a characteristic advantage of EVs over their internal combustion counterparts. The absence of regular oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative braking systems that reduce wear on brake components contribute to lower service costs.
The 8-year battery warranty offered by both manufacturers is reassuring for potential buyers concerned about the longevity of the most expensive component in these vehicles. Additionally, both companies provide comprehensive vehicle warranties and roadside assistance packages to address any concerns during ownership.
The charging ecosystem continues to evolve in India, with both Tata and Mahindra establishing partnerships with charging infrastructure providers. Tata Power’s extensive charging network gives the Nexon EV a slight edge in terms of charging convenience, particularly in major metropolitan areas.
Price and Value Proposition: The Bottom Line
The ultimate deciding factor for most consumers comes down to price and the value offered at that price point.
The Tata Nexon EV range starts at approximately Rs. 12.49 lakh for the base variant, with the top-spec Long Range variant priced at around Rs. 19.94 lakh (ex-showroom). This wide price range makes the Nexon EV accessible to a broader customer base, with the entry-level variants offering a compelling introduction to electric mobility.
The Mahindra XUV400 EV begins at a higher price point of approximately Rs. 16.74 lakh, with the top-end variant priced competitively at around Rs. 19.39 lakh (ex-showroom). This pricing positions the XUV400 EV as a more premium offering, targeting consumers who prioritize space and performance over initial cost considerations.
When evaluating value, the Nexon EV offers a more feature-rich package, particularly in its top variants, with superior technology, better infotainment, and more convenience features. The recent updates have further enhanced its value proposition with the addition of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) features in select variants.
The XUV400 EV counters with its size advantage, more powerful drivetrain, and faster charging capabilities. For families requiring more space and those who frequently undertake longer journeys, these attributes might justify the higher entry price.
Government incentives for electric vehicles continue to play a significant role in the purchasing decision. Both SUVs benefit from reduced GST, exemption from road tax in many states, and various state-level subsidies that enhance their value proposition compared to equivalent internal combustion engine vehicles.
The Verdict: Which Electric SUV Offers Better Value in 2025?
After comprehensive analysis across multiple parameters, determining the better value proposition between the Tata Nexon EV and Mahindra XUV400 EV ultimately depends on individual priorities and use cases.
For tech-savvy urban dwellers who prioritize features, a modern interior, and a more engaging driving experience, the Tata Nexon EV delivers exceptional value. Its lower entry price, comprehensive feature list, and Tata’s established presence in the electric vehicle market make it a compelling choice for first-time EV buyers. The brand’s wider service network and more extensive charging infrastructure partnerships also add to its practicality quotient.
Conversely, for those who value space, comfort, and outright performance, the Mahindra XUV400 EV presents a strong case. Its larger dimensions, powerful motor, and faster charging capabilities make it better suited for larger families and those who regularly undertake intercity journeys. The more traditional SUV design might also appeal to buyers transitioning from conventional SUVs to electric mobility.
Both these electric SUVs represent significant progress in India’s journey toward sustainable transportation. They demonstrate that electric vehicles can be practical, feature-rich, and exciting to drive while remaining relatively affordable.
As the electric vehicle landscape continues to evolve with improved battery technology, enhanced charging infrastructure, and greater consumer awareness, both Tata and Mahindra are well-positioned to lead India’s electric revolution. Their commitment to continuous improvement, evidenced by regular updates to these models, ensures that both the Nexon EV and XUV400 EV will remain competitive options for consumers considering the switch to electric mobility.
In the final analysis, the better value proposition depends on your specific requirements, driving patterns, and priorities. Test drive both vehicles, evaluate the features that matter most to you, and consider the total cost of ownership beyond the initial purchase price. Whether you choose the tech-forward Nexon EV or the spacious XUV400 EV, you’ll be making a positive step toward sustainable mobility – and that’s a choice that offers value not just to you, but to the environment and future generations.
