Mahindra’s new-gen EVs have been in the spotlight for a while now, and though the larger XEV 9e is the one proving to be the more popular choice with buyers, the striking BE 6 is perhaps the one pulling potential customers to showrooms. We’ve already done an in-depth road test of the XEV 9e and came away with the impression that, though pricey, it’s a well-engineered, well-rounded and feature-rich electric SUV. Can the BE 6 keep Mahindra’s flag flying high? We put it through our exhaustive real-world road test to find out
Mahindra BE 6 Exterior Design and Engineering – 8/10
Concept car-like design demands attention; born EV is based on INGLO platform and gets two battery sizes.You really have to hand it to Mahindra, as it has gone all guns blazing in the styling department; the BE 6 looks like nothing else on the road. The front end is dominated by sharp lines and bold LED lighting elements, but what’s really unique is the large hood scoop, which efficiently channels airflow to improve aerodynamics. An illuminated ‘BE’ logo takes pride of place on the bonnet, under which sits a 45-litre frunk.
Moving to the side, the coupe-SUV silhouette is accentuated by a raked windscreen, flush-fitting door handles that deploy electrically, and a roofline that swoops dramatically towards the rear. This aggressive stance is underpinned by the INGLO platform, Mahindra’s dedicated EV architecture that promises skateboard-like modularity for better weight distribution and handling. The BE 6 measures 4,371mm in length, 1,907mm in width, and 1,627mm in height, with a long 2,775mm wheelbase that aids stability.
It rides on 19-inch alloys shod with 245/55 Goodyear ElectricDrive tyres, and the ground clearance stands at a healthy 207mm unladen (222mm battery clearance), making it capable for light off-road jaunts.
At the rear, the design stays true to the bold theme with C-shaped LED tail lights, a sculpted tailgate, and a subtle dual-spoiler setup for added downforce. Piano black accents abound, which look premium but could be a fingerprint magnet in India’s dusty conditions. Overall, the BE 6’s exterior scores high for turning heads—it’s a rolling statement of Mahindra’s design ambition—but practicality takes a minor hit from the sloping roofline affecting rear headroom.
Mahindra BE 6 Interior and Comfort – 9/10
Radical cockpit layout impresses; spacious but coupe roofline cramps rear headroom.
Step inside the BE 6, and you’re greeted by a futuristic cabin that feels lifted straight from a concept car showroom. The dashboard adopts an aviation-inspired theme with a prominent halo ring encircling the dual 12.3-inch screens—one for the digital driver’s display and the other for infotainment—creating a seamless, tech-forward ambiance. Sustainable materials like recycled fabrics and soft-touch leatherette dominate, paired with ambient lighting that can sync to your playlist via the ‘Groove Me’ feature for a concert-like vibe.
The front seats are supportive with ventilation and memory functions for the driver, though the narrow width might feel snug for broader-shouldered occupants on long drives. Storage is thoughtful: a cooled console, dual wireless chargers, and USB-C ports aplenty. The two-spoke steering wheel, flat-bottomed and leather-wrapped, houses intuitive controls for ADAS, regen modes, and a cheeky ‘Boost’ button for temporary power surges.
Rear space is where the coupe design shows its trade-offs. Three adults fit across, with decent knee room for a 5’10” passenger, but headroom is tight under the sloping roof—expect a slight knees-up posture team-bhp.com Ingress/egress requires some gymnastics over the high battery floor, and the limited glass area can make it feel a tad claustrophobic. Boot capacity is 455 litres (expandable with 60:40 split-folds), plus that handy frunk up front. Comfort features like rear AC vents, Pet/Camp modes, and a panoramic sunroof elevate the experience, making it a strong contender for family use despite the compromises.
Mahindra BE 6 Engine and Transmission – 9/10
Smooth, potent RWD setup; 79kWh pack delivers 500+ km real-world range.We tested the top-spec Pack Three variant with the larger 79kWh battery, paired to a rear-mounted electric motor churning out 286hp and 380Nm of instant torque. Acceleration is effortless—0-100km/h in under 7 seconds feels brisk without drama, thanks to well-calibrated throttle mapping that avoids the jerky surge some EVs suffer from. The single-speed transmission shifts seamlessly, and one-pedal driving with adjustable regen levels (via paddle shifters) makes city traffic a breeze.
Range-wise, Mahindra claims 682km on the MIDC cycle, but our real-world test on mixed highways and urban loops yielded around 550km, equating to an efficiency of 5.55km/kWh—impressive for a 2-tonne SUV. The smaller 59kWh option (231hp, 556km claimed) suits urban commuters better, but the big pack’s longevity shines on longer hauls. Charging is quick: 20-80% in 30 minutes on a 175kW DC fast charger, with onboard 11kW AC for home use. No major NVH issues; the cabin stays hushed, with virtual engine sounds for pedestrian alerts adding a sporty touch.
Mahindra BE 6 Ride and Handling – 8/10
Planted dynamics with low CoG; firm ride suits enthusiasts over pillow-soft comfort seekers.The INGLO platform’s low centre of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery) translates to planted cornering, with minimal body roll through twisties. The rear-drive layout encourages playful tail slides if you push the Boost mode, and steering is light yet precise, with good feedback for an EV. Stiff suspension tuning keeps it composed on undulating roads, but it can feel jiggly over potholes—expect some thuds in Mumbai’s infamous craters.Ride quality is firm yet composed at highway speeds, where wind and tyre noise are well-contained. The 207mm clearance handles speed breakers confidently, and the aero tweaks (like that hood scoop) aid efficiency without compromising fun. It’s no soft-ride Tata, but for those wanting engagement, it’s a winner.
Mahindra BE 6 Safety and Tech – 9/10
Loaded with Level 2 ADAS; intuitive infotainment, but 360-cam has minor lag.Safety is robust with six airbags, all-disc brakes, and a 5-star Global NCAP rating in the works (based on platform testing).
Level 2 ADAS includes adaptive cruise, lane keep, and auto emergency braking, displayed crisply on the head-up unit with AR navigation. The 360-degree camera aids tight parking, though 3D mode lags slightly.
Tech highlights? The AdrenoX infotainment is snappy, supporting wireless AA/CP and 5G connectivity, while the 16-speaker Harman Kardon setup with Dolby Atmos turns the cabin into a rolling auditorium. Connected features like OTA updates and remote preconditioning are par for the course, with an NFC keycard for keyless entry adding flair. Minor nit: the touchscreen A/C controls could be more tactile.
Mahindra BE 6 VerdictOverall Score: 8.5/10
| Aspect | Score |
|---|---|
| Exterior Design & Engineering | 8/10 |
| Interior & Comfort | 9/10 |
| Engine & Transmission | 9/10 |
| Ride & Handling | 8/10 |
| Safety & Tech | 9/10 |
Pros: Jaw-dropping design, potent performance, generous range, feature-packed cabin.
Cons: Firm ride over bad roads, rear headroom squeeze, piano black smudges easily.
Priced from Rs 18.90 lakh to Rs 26.90 lakh (ex-showroom), the BE 6 isn’t cheap, but it delivers world-class EV thrills with Indian practicality. It doesn’t just keep Mahindra’s flag flying—it hoists it higher, challenging imports like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 with bolder style and better value. If you’re after an EV that excites as much as it electrifies, the BE 6 demands a test drive
