The Mahindra XUV 5XO and the Tata Sierra EV are two of the most exciting upcoming SUVs in India — but they appeal to very different buyers. The XUV 5XO targets traditional ICE SUV lovers (with a possible hybrid or future EV), while the Sierra EV is all about electric power, prestige, and sustainability.
Here’s a detailed comparison, along with cost projections to help you decide which is better for you.
Key Differences: XUV 5XO vs Sierra EV
| Feature | Mahindra XUV 5XO | Tata Sierra EV |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | Expected to use Mahindra’s newer modular platform (rumored) | Based on Tata’s EV-specific architecture. |
| Powertrain Options | Speculated ICE – petrol and possibly diesel | Fully electric EV with 500–600 km range expected. |
| Price Range (Ex-Showroom) | Not officially confirmed (rumors) | Estimated ₹19.0–26.0 lakh (some sources expect up to ₹27 lakh for 4WD EV) |
| Range / Efficiency | Typical ICE efficiency (to be confirmed) | ~500–600 km on a full charge (expected) |
| Design & Appeal | Rugged SUV look, practical, modern Mahindra vibe | Retro-inspired design + modern EV touches |
| Use Case | Daily commuting, highway driving, long trips (ICE) | EV commuting, long-range travel, city + highways with charging access |
Estimated On-Road Cost, EMI & 5-Year Running Cost
Here, we make reasonable assumptions based on typical Indian EV / ICE financing and running scenarios. (These are estimates — actual costs may vary.)
Assumptions for calculation:
- Loan tenure: 5 years
- Interest rate: ~9% for car loan
- Annual distance: ~15,000 km
- Electricity cost: ₹10 per kWh (for EV)
- Fuel cost: ₹100 per litre (assumed average)
- EV efficiency: ~5 km / kWh (approx)
Estimated On-Road Cost
- XUV 5XO (ICE version, speculated)
- If its ex-showroom price is ~₹20 lakh (speculative), the on-road cost (including taxes, registration, insurance) could rise to ~₹22.5 lakh (very rough estimate).
- Tata Sierra EV
- With an estimated ex-showroom price of ₹19.0–26.0 lakh, the on-road price may go up to ₹21–29 lakh, depending on variant, state subsidies, and local EV incentives.
EMI Estimate (5-Year Loan)
- XUV 5XO (₹22.5 lakh on-road)
- EMI (60 months @ 9%): ~₹46,000–48,000/month
- Tata Sierra EV (₹25 lakh on-road)
- EMI (60 months @ 9%): ~₹51,000–53,000/month
5-Year Running Cost (Fuel + Maintenance + Charging)
XUV 5XO (ICE):
- Fuel Cost: Assume 15,000 km/year, 15 km/l → ~1,000 litres per year → ₹1,00,000/year → ₹5,00,000 over 5 years
- Maintenance: ICE maintenance + service could average ~₹20,000/year depending on use → ~₹1,00,000 over 5 years
- Total Estimated 5-Year Cost: ~₹6,00,000
Tata Sierra EV:
- Charging Cost: 15,000 km/year / 5 km per kWh = 3,000 kWh → at ₹10/kWh = ~₹30,000/year → ~₹1,50,000 over 5 years
- Maintenance: EV maintenance is usually lower (no oil change, fewer moving parts). Assume ~₹10,000/year → ₹50,000 in 5 years
- Total Estimated 5-Year Cost: ~₹2,00,000
Why Choose Which?
- Pick the XUV 5XO if:
- You prefer traditional combustion engines.
- You often travel long distances where fuel stations are reliable.
- You’re okay paying more to drive now instead of waiting for EV charging infrastructure.
- Pick the Tata Sierra EV if:
- You want to save big on running costs.
- You care about lower emissions and environmental impact.
- You have access to regular charging (home or public).
Risks & Things to Consider
- XUV 5XO: Specs and costs are still based on rumour — the final product could be different.
- Sierra EV: High up-front cost; the real-world running cost depends heavily on electricity prices and charging habits.
- Infrastructure: EV running cost advantage depends on convenient charging access.
- Resale Value Uncertainty: EV resale depends on battery health and demand; ICE resale depends on fuel prices and maintenance.