Stop the press! What is that? That was pretty much everyone’s reaction when the new Mahindra BE 6e hit the street. Doesn’t it remind you of the stunning Lamborghini Urus? Yes, I know, it’s a bold comparison, but once you lay eyes on BE 6e, you’ll agree that Mahindra’s daring design deserves praise.
The BE 6e (pronounced ‘B 6e’ or the cheeky version, ‘Be Sexy’) is built on Mahindra’s all-electric INGLO platform and is looking to disrupt the EV market. The question is—will the new SUV leave its competition looking like outdated relics? We’re about to find out.
Mahindra BE 6e Review: Design
The Mahindra BE 6e is a total head-turner with its aggressive styling and curves that would make Beyonce jealous.The BE 6e features a bold, all-black fascia and a massive air duct on the bonnet designed to improve aerodynamics and efficiency. The C-shaped LED DRLs and full LED headlights give it an intense, sporty look, while the fog lamps add to the aggressive vibe. Interestingly, the BE 6e ditches the new Mahindra electric logo on the front adding to its unique character.
The side profile? It’s all muscle. From the squared-off wheel arches to the bold character lines running along the doors, the BE 6e has a futuristic flair you’d expect from a car straight out of a Transformers movie. It sits on 19-inch alloy wheels with an option for 20-inch and 207 mm ground clearance giving it an imposing presence. The battery ground clearance is even higher at 218 mm.
The sloping roofline adds to its sleek, sporty aesthetic, while an extended roof spoiler and a subtle rear spoiler further enhance the BE 6e’s aerodynamics. The L-shaped LED tail lamps at the rear give it an edgy look.
Mahindra BE 6e Review: Interiors and Features
The BE 6e’s cabin is straight out of a fighter jet—with a halo design that wraps around you, giving it a cockpit-like feel. The gear stick is designed like a flight stick, adding a unique touch. The dashboard features twin 12.3-inch digital displays that combine the infotainment system and the driver’s console. The centre console is home to a magnetic key fob holder, and the command rotary dial and the door handles are canvas loops that you pull to unlock the doors — innovative, but we’ll see how they hold up over time.
Inside, the BE 6e boasts dual-tone beige and black interiors, but the plastic quality feels a bit underwhelming for an SUV of this calibre. However, Mahindra has added some thoughtful features, like physical switches for basic functions above the rearview mirror — hazard lights, central locking, parking sensors, boot release, SOS call, and even a selfie camera mode. Yes, you read that right—this EV comes with an in-cabin camera for online meetings or capturing fun road trip moments with friends and family.
As for the rear passenger space, there’s decent legroom compared to its competitors, and the lack of a transmission tunnel means ample knee room for the middle passenger. The under-thigh support, however, could use a little improvement. Taller passengers over 6 feet may also find the headroom a bit tight. The rear AC vents are a standout feature with their radiator-like design and a button inside to control the airflow.
The BE 6e is loaded with features to keep you connected like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual wireless phone chargers up front, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with Dolby Atmos. There’s also ambient lighting, an augmented reality-based head-up display, dual-zone climate control, a glass roof with ambient lights, and a powered tailgate.
Mahindra BE 6e Review: Safety Features
The BE 6e gets state-of-the-art safety features like Level 2 ADAS which includes driver drowsiness detection, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, blind view monitor and much more. The standard BE 6e trim will come with 6 airbags while the top version will get seven.
Mahindra BE 6e Review: Behind the wheel
The BE 6e offers two battery options: a 59 kWh and a 79 kWh, with the latter belting out 281.6 bhp while the former delivers 228 bhp. Both variants pack a punch with 380 Nm of torque, making sure that the BE 6e isn’t just another pretty face — it’s a serious performance machine. And while its aggressive looks might make you think it’s all about the show, the BE 6e is all business when it comes to tearing up the tarmac.
With three driving modes — Range, Everyday, and Race. Starting with Race mode and no zero lag, step on the accelerator, and you’re off like a rocket. It’s a rush of unadulterated power that’ll leave your heart racing and a smile plastered across your face. Mahindra claims the BE 6e does 0-100 kmph in just 6.7 seconds, setting a new benchmark in its segment. If you’re just cruising around town, though, Everyday mode provides more than enough power to handle city traffic and cruise on the highway.
The BE 6e’s steering wheel is a two-spoke flat-bottom design with paddle shifters for three regen modes. Plus, there’s a shortcut button for one-pedal drive mode, so you can stay in control without constantly tapping the brakes. There is also a boost button that zaps the EV with additional power for a couple of seconds and lets you go past the three-digit figure.
Based on the driving mode you select, the steering adjusts its weight—getting heavier in Race mode for a more engaging feel, and lighter in Range and Everyday modes, perfect for easy city driving.
When it comes to ride quality, the BE 6e is an acquired taste. It’s got a firm setup, so you’ll feel every bump, ditch, and pothole. The firmness isn’t without purpose as it gives the BE 6e incredible handling. This SUV loves corners and grips the road with the determination of a track car. Whether you’re carving through tight turns or cruising at speed, the BE 6e stays glued to the tarmac, offering a nimble, agile driving experience that’s rare in this segment.
Mahindra BE 6e Review: Should you buy it?
The BE 6e is all set to take on rivals like the Tata Curvv EV, with a starting price of Rs 18.90 lakh (ex-showroom). For this price, it delivers a road presence that’s unmatched in its segment. It’s not just about looks, the BE 6e backs up its bold design with class-leading performance and handling that will leave you grinning every time you take a corner. It’s got minimal body roll and stays glued to the road.
Packed with features you’d expect from a luxury SUV, the BE 6e doesn’t disappoint on the tech front. According to ARAI, the range for the 79 kWh variant is 682 km on a single charge, while the more realistic WLTP range comes in at 550 km. Whether it’s for city commutes or long road trips, this EV has you covered. There’s also no shortage of storage space, with a 455 litre boot and an additional 45 litre frunk.
Charging the BE 6e is quick and convenient. With a 175 kW DC fast charger, you can juice up from 20 per cent to 80 per cent in 20 minutes. If you’re charging at home, the 7.2 kW or 11 kW AC chargers will get the job done overnight.
Currently, there’s no other power-packed, fun-to-drive EV SUV quite like the BE 6e in this price range. But before you rush to pull the trigger, wait until January, when Mahindra will unveil the complete price list for the BE 6e.
