Mahindra has wasted no time in proving that its latest electric SUV is not just a vehicle, but a continuously evolving technology platform. Within weeks of customer deliveries, the Mahindra XEV 9S has received a major enhancement through the introduction of a Custom Drive Mode — a feature designed directly in response to early reviews and real-world owner feedback.
This swift update highlights a fundamental shift in the Indian automotive landscape. Instead of waiting years for mechanical upgrades, Mahindra has leveraged software to refine ride quality and driving dynamics almost instantly.
Why the Mahindra XEV 9S Matters in India’s EV Market
Positioned as Mahindra’s flagship electric SUV, the XEV 9S represents the company’s ambition to blend performance, design, and next-generation technology. With over 280 horsepower, a striking exterior, and a modern digital cockpit, the SUV quickly attracted attention from enthusiasts and industry experts.
Yet, as with any new product, initial road tests revealed valuable improvement opportunities — particularly in suspension behavior at higher speeds.
Early Feedback: Where the Ride Needed Refinement
First-drive impressions consistently praised the XEV 9S for its power delivery, smooth electric drivetrain, and premium cabin experience. However, one recurring observation centered around suspension tuning.
Understanding the Concern
The suspension was intentionally tuned for comfort, delivering a plush ride over city roads. While this worked well at low speeds, drivers reported:
Noticeable vertical movement on wavy highways
A slightly floaty sensation at speed
Less planted highway dynamics
For a performance-capable electric SUV, some reviewers expected firmer body control during fast cruising and spirited driving.
Mahindra responded with remarkable speed.
Introducing the Custom Drive Mode: A Smart Software Solution
Mahindra’s answer did not involve replacing suspension components or altering hardware. Instead, the company introduced a Custom Drive Mode, transforming how drivers interact with the vehicle’s dynamics.
Previously, the Mahindra XEV 9S offered preset drive modes:
Zip – Efficiency-focused
Zap – Balanced performance
Zoom – Maximum responsiveness
These modes worked effectively but followed fixed calibrations.
How Earlier Modes Were Rigid
Under the earlier system, selecting a mode like Zoom automatically adjusted multiple parameters together.
For example:
If you wanted Zoom’s aggressive power delivery, steering and suspension settings would also shift to predefined firm characteristics.
What Custom Mode Changes
With the new Custom Drive Mode, drivers gain complete flexibility.
You can now combine settings that were previously locked together:
Earlier, choosing Zoom meant firmer steering and suspension by default. Now, drivers can enjoy Zoom-level performance while retaining Zip-style light steering or selecting their preferred suspension behavior.
This decoupling of vehicle characteristics is a major leap forward.
What Can Drivers Personalize in Custom Mode?
1. Powertrain Response
Drivers can adjust how power is delivered — from relaxed efficiency to instant acceleration. This enables:
Energy-conscious commuting
Performance-focused driving
Tailored throttle behavior
2. Steering Feel
Steering effort can be independently configured:
Light Steering – Ideal for urban traffic and parking
Firm Steering – Better feedback and stability at speed
3. Suspension / Adaptive Dampers (Key Highlight)
The most significant upgrade lies in suspension tuning. Drivers can now stiffen the Adaptive Dampers without affecting powertrain settings.
This directly addresses the earlier ride-quality feedback.
The “Stiff” Suspension Setting: Improved Stability and Control
Selecting the Stiff Suspension setting transforms the vehicle’s high-speed behavior.
Key Benefits
Reduced vertical bounce
Flatter body control
Enhanced highway confidence
More composed handling
Safety Advantage of Firmer Suspension
Improved highway stability is not just about driving pleasure — it also enhances safety.
Better body control means more predictable vehicle responses during:
Emergency braking
Sudden lane changes
High-speed cornering
This results in greater driver control during critical situations.
Driving Combinations Now Possible
The Custom Drive Mode unlocks new driving personalities, such as:
Firm suspension + light steering
Soft suspension + aggressive power
Relaxed powertrain + firm steering
Such flexibility was previously uncommon, especially in Indian electric vehicles.
Who Receives This Update?
The Custom Drive Mode is available exclusively on the Mahindra XEV 9S Pack THREE, the top-spec variant.
Why Only Pack THREE?
Only this variant includes advanced hardware required for adaptive tuning:
Frequency Selective Dampers (FSD)
Adaptive Damping Control
These systems enable real-time suspension adjustments via software.
Update Mechanism for Owners
Mahindra is delivering the enhancement using modern digital infrastructure.
Existing Owners
Pack THREE owners will receive:
OTA (Over-The-Air) Software Update, or
Update via authorized service centers
New Buyers
All newly manufactured Pack THREE units now include Custom Mode pre-installed.
Why This Update Reflects a Larger Industry Shift
Mahindra’s rapid response underscores the growing importance of software-defined vehicles (SDVs).
Traditionally, ride and handling concerns required:
Hardware modifications
Multi-year development cycles
Facelift updates
Now, driving dynamics can be refined digitally.
A Global Benchmark Approach
This strategy places Mahindra alongside leading global EV brands that improve vehicle behavior through software rather than mechanical changes — a hallmark of next-generation automotive engineering.
Mahindra’s Tech-Driven Agility
By addressing customer feedback within weeks, Mahindra has demonstrated:
Engineering responsiveness
Digital-first vehicle development
Customer-focused refinement
This approach sets a strong precedent for Indian automakers.
Conclusion: A More Versatile Mahindra XEV 9S
With the introduction of the Custom Drive Mode, the Mahindra XEV 9S evolves into a more adaptable and confidence-inspiring electric SUV.
Owners can now enjoy:
Plush comfort for daily drives
Greater highway composure
Personalized driving dynamics
Rather than waiting years for improvements, drivers benefit almost immediately.
If you own an XEV 9S Pack THREE, exploring the Custom Mode settings may completely redefine your driving experience.
Key Highlights
Model: Mahindra XEV 9S (Pack THREE)
New Feature: Custom Drive Mode
Customizable Systems: Suspension, Steering, Powertrain
Major Benefit: Reduced bounce, improved stability, enhanced safety
Update Method: OTA / Software Update