Mahindra BE6 Road Test Review: A Bold New Direction for the Brand

Mahindra has built its empire on tough, square-edged, diesel-powered SUVs. The BE6, however, signals an entirely different intent. This isn’t an electrified version of an existing model — it’s a clean-sheet EV designed to push Mahindra into the premium electric space. With radical styling, a feature-rich interior and a more mature on-road character, the BE6 aims to redefine the company’s identity.

But how well does it deliver? We spent time behind the wheel to find out.

Mahindra BE6 Road Test Review: Design – Striking, Sporty and Every Bit an EV

You won’t mistake the BE6 for anything else on the road. It carries the proportions of a performance-oriented crossover rather than a traditional SUV — wide, sharply sculpted and low-slung.

The front end

is cleanly executed, with headlamps blended neatly into the bodywork. Instead of going full “EV blank face,” Mahindra retains intelligently placed airflow channels, improving aerodynamics and helping efficiency. It’s a subtle but practical approach.

Along the sides, pronounced shoulder lines, glossy black wheel-arch cladding and a swoopy roofline give the BE6 a coupe-style silhouette. The rear is just as dramatic, with twin spoilers, intricate LED signatures and contrasting textures that lift the overall luxury appeal. The animated BE6 welcome/goodbye sequence adds to the high-tech theatrics.

Mahindra BE6 Road Test Review: Interior – Focused on the Driver, Loaded with Tech

Inside, the BE6 feels purpose-built for the driver. The cockpit-like layout creates a clear separation between the driver’s area and the rest of the cabin, immediately hinting at a sportier driving intent.

The dark, all-black theme is complemented by a dual-screen setup featuring crisp visuals and quick responses. The driving position is on the lower side for an SUV, adding to the athletic feel, and the height-adjustable seat makes it easier to fine-tune comfort.

The chunky gear selector is unique, operating with multiple toggles rather than a single motion — it looks cool but takes a moment to get used to. Thankfully, physical controls are still present: a rotary controller for the infotainment, a proper start/stop button and a premium Harman Kardon audio system.

A fixed glass roof brings in light but doesn’t open, which some buyers may see as a miss in this segment.

The rear seat is a mixed bag. The recline angle and cushioning are excellent, but both legroom and headroom are somewhat restricted. You also get Type-C charging ports and a fabric-covered armrest, but the small rear windows and absence of a sunshade can make the second row feel tight. And yes — fabric trim will need more care over time.

On the practicality front, however, the BE6 does well. The 455-litre powered tailgate is more than enough for regular family usage, and the 45-litre frunk (opened via a manual lever) is perfect for cables or small luggage. The inclusion of a drain plug is a surprisingly thoughtful bonus.

Mahindra BE6 Road Test Review Performance: Easy-going, Yet Ready to Play

On the road, the BE6 immediately feels smooth and approachable. In its standard and efficiency-focused modes, the throttle is relaxed and predictable — ideal for daily commutes. Switch to the sportier settings, and the response sharpens significantly.

The party trick is the boost button on the steering wheel, which unleashes a 10-second surge of power. It’s genuinely useful for quick overtakes and equally fun for showing off the instant torque EVs are known for.

Ride quality is arguably the standout aspect. With independent suspension at all four corners, the BE6 manages its EV mass impressively. On good and moderately broken surfaces, the composure is excellent. Larger potholes can still break through the calm, but overall, the ride quality places it firmly in the premium bracket.

Mahindra BE6 Road Test Review: Verdict – A Strong, Confident Move into the EV Future

The BE6 is more than Mahindra’s first ground-up electric SUV — it’s a statement of ambition. It proves Mahindra can pivot from rugged, diesel-first DNA to a stylish, EV-led, comfort-centric identity without losing its commitment to value.

It isn’t perfect. The rear seating package and a few interior quirks hold it back slightly. But judged on design, comfort, technology and overall driving experience, the BE6 makes a compelling case for itself.

If this is the roadmap for Mahindra’s future EVs, the trajectory is clear: bold, modern and unmistakably electric.