3 reasons to buy the Mahindra BE 6 and 2 not to

The Mahindra BE 6 is a radically styled EV that competes in the burgeoning midsize electric SUV space. Launched late last year, the BE 6 is available in a total of 7 variants, including the recently launched Batman Edition – which has a limited run of 999 units – and comes with two battery pack options. So, if you’re in the market for a new midsize electric SUV, here’s why you should buy the Mahindra BE 6, and a few reasons why you might want to consider its rivals: the MG ZS EV, Tata Curvv EV, or the Hyundai Creta Electric.

Mahindra BE 6 ride and handling

Outstanding ride and handling balance

Our Mahindra BE 6 review found that it achieves a near-perfect ride and handling balance. Like most Mahindra SUVs, the BE 6 tackles potholes and broken roads with aplomb, maintaining excellent composure and rounding off imperfections. However, it also changes direction with the agility of a smaller, lighter car and feels confident and composed when cornering. The BE 6 excels on winding roads and highways, offering a European luxury SUV-like drive experience.

Mahindra BE 6 performance

286hp BE 6 variants offer strong performance

As mentioned above, this e-SUV is available with 2 battery options – 59kWh with up to 557km of MIDC range and 79kWh with up to 683km of range; our BE 6 real-world range tests saw the 79kWh version go 449km on a single charge and deliver an efficiency of 5.68km/kWh. The smaller battery powers a 231hp, 380Nm rear axle-mounted motor, while the larger battery option comes with a 286hp, 380Nm rear motor. Mahindra claims a 0-100kph time of 6.7 seconds, making the BE 6 quite quick off the mark. Along with impressive levels of refinement, Mahindra’s smaller born-EV also comes with a dedicated single-pedal drive mode, four regen modes (Level 0 to Level 3) and four drive modes (Range, Everyday, Race and Boost).

Mahindra BE 6 features

Even the entry-level BE 6 Pack One variant is well-equipped

Mahindra has ensured the BE 6 is a feature-packed SUV, with even the base Pack One variant getting kit such as 12.3-inch infotainment and instrument screens, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a rear camera, 6 airbags, auto wipers, cruise control and rear AC vents. The top-spec BE 6 Pack Three gets all the bells and whistles, from a Level 2 ADAS suite, an augmented reality HUD, 7 airbags and an auto parking function to a 360-degree camera, ventilated front seats and ambient lighting integrated into the massive glass roof. A standout feature on the top-spec BE 6 Pack Three is the 1,400W 16-speaker Harman Kardon system with Dolby Atmos. Our BE 6 variants explained article has the complete list of features, safety kit, colours and battery options available at every price point.

Mahindra BE 6 infotainment system

Infotainment system is confusing to operate

While the 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen is chock-full of apps, only a few are actually useful. On one hand, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay work seamlessly; on the other, the user interface for the rest of the system is rather complicated. Accessing simple functions – like the auto AC or the volume controls for the music system – is a two-step process, and changing drive modes is far more complicated than it should be.

Mahindra BE 6 interior ergonomics

Design elements hamper practicality

The BE 6’s interior matches its radical exterior. Many design details are quite attention-grabbing, from the aircraft-style drive selector, roof-mounted toggle switches and unique “halo loop” – that serves as a partition between the driver and the front passenger – to the expansive dashboard that stretches to the sloping windscreen. However, the halo loop obstructs the front passenger’s access to the USB-C ports and eliminates space for a second cup holder, while the long dashboard offers no utility or storage space.

Access to the rear seats is hampered by the low roofline, as is the headroom at the back. The thick door pads also reduce seat width, making the rear bench less comfortable for three adults. The BE6 has a 455-litre boot, which is sizable, but the limited height and the high loading lip make it feel smaller than it actually is.

Also see:

7 things to know before buying a Mahindra BE 6

Mahindra BE 6 video review

Mahindra unveils all new platform with four SUV concepts