The Mahindra BE 6, a bold entrant into India’s electric vehicle (EV) market, has garnered significant attention for its futuristic design, impressive range, and competitive pricing. Launched in November 2024, this coupe-style SUV, built on Mahindra’s INGLO platform, promises a blend of performance, technology, and style. However, a recurring point of contention among buyers and reviewers is the use of hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery in the interior, especially for a vehicle priced up to ₹26.90 lakh (ex-showroom). This blog post dives deep into this issue, exploring its implications, verifying myths versus realities, and proposing solutions, all while providing a comprehensive overview of the Mahindra BE 6’s interior and its place in the competitive EV landscape.
Introduction: Setting the Stage for the Mahindra BE 6
The Mahindra BE 6, also referred to as the BE 6e, marks Mahindra’s ambitious foray into the born-electric SUV segment. Priced between ₹18.90 lakh and ₹26.90 lakh, it competes with rivals like the Tata Curvv EV, MG ZS EV, and Hyundai Creta Electric. With a claimed range of up to 682 km (ARAI-certified for the 79 kWh variant), a 0-100 km/h sprint in 6.7 seconds, and a feature-packed cabin, the BE 6 has positioned itself as a game-changer. Yet, the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery in its interior have sparked debates about whether Mahindra has cut corners in a premium-priced EV.
Why does this matter? In the EV market, where buyers expect cutting-edge technology and premium experiences, interior quality plays a pivotal role in shaping perceptions of value. Let’s explore the specifics of this issue, dissect user feedback, and evaluate whether it’s a genuine concern or an overblown critique.
The Mahindra BE 6 Interior: A Closer Look
The BE 6’s interior is designed to impress at first glance. Key highlights include:
- Dual 12.3-inch Floating Screens: Powered by Mahindra’s MAIA (Mahindra Artificial Intelligence Architecture), these screens handle instrumentation and infotainment duties, offering a responsive interface with 24 GB RAM, 128 GB storage, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8295 processor.
- Cockpit-Like Design: A halo-like trim wraps around the driver, creating a futuristic, driver-centric feel. The floating center console houses an aircraft-style drive mode selector and a wireless charging pad.
- Premium Features: Top-spec Pack Three variants boast a panoramic sunroof with UV protection, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon Dolby Atmos sound system, Level 2 ADAS, 360-degree cameras, and 5G connectivity.
- Unique Touches: Fabric door straps (inspired by race cars), a two-spoke steering wheel with an illuminated ‘BE’ logo, and recycled fabric upholstery (50% recycled materials) add character.
- Space and Practicality: The BE 6 offers 455 liters of boot space, a 45-liter frunk, and decent legroom, though rear headroom is restrictive for taller passengers due to the coupe-style roofline.
However, the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery have drawn criticism, particularly in the context of the top-spec Pack Three variant priced at ₹26.90 lakh. Let’s break down the specifics of this issue.
The Issue: Hard Plastics and Budget-Grade Upholstery
What Reviewers and Buyers Are Saying
Several reviews and user comments highlight dissatisfaction with the BE 6’s interior materials:
- Hard Plastics: The dashboard, door panels, and center console feature glossy black and matte olive green plastic elements that feel less premium than expected. Reviewers note that these plastics are prone to scratches and lack the tactile quality found in competitors like the MG ZS EV or Hyundai Creta Electric. One user on CarWale remarked, “Mahindra, when I am buying an almost 30 lakh EV, I expected good quality interior, but Hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery wow.”
- Budget-Grade Upholstery: The seats combine leatherette and recycled fabric, but the fabric feels coarse to some buyers, and the leatherette lacks the softness of premium alternatives. While Mahindra emphasizes sustainability with 50% recycled materials, critics argue that the upholstery doesn’t match the vehicle’s premium price tag.
- Fit and Finish: Switchgear and touchpoints, such as buttons and the drive selector, lack the refinement seen in global brands. Autocar India noted, “The touchpoints and switchgear lack the tactile feel we’ve experienced in global brands.”
- User Expectations: At ₹26.90 lakh, buyers expect a cabin that rivals the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or even the Tata Harrier’s premium interiors. The BE 6’s interior, while modern, falls short of these expectations for some.
Context: Why Interior Quality Matters
In the EV segment, where vehicles are often marketed as tech-forward and premium, interior quality is a key differentiator. Buyers spending upwards of ₹25 lakh expect materials that feel luxurious, durable, and aligned with the vehicle’s futuristic ethos. The hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery raise questions about whether Mahindra prioritized cost-cutting over perceived value, especially when competitors offer softer materials and higher-quality upholstery at similar price points.
Myth vs. Reality: Is the Criticism Justified?
To provide an unbiased verdict, let’s separate myths from realities regarding the BE 6’s interior quality.
Myth 1: The Entire Interior Is Low-Quality
Reality: The BE 6’s interior isn’t entirely subpar. The dual-tone beige and black color scheme, combined with thoughtful design elements like the halo trim and fabric door straps, creates a modern and distinctive cabin. Features like ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system elevate the experience. However, the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery in key touchpoints, such as the dashboard and seats, detract from the premium feel. The use of glossy plastics, which are prone to scratches, is a notable misstep for a vehicle in this price range.
Myth 2: The Interior Quality Makes the BE 6 Unworthy of Its Price
Reality: The BE 6 offers exceptional value in other areas. Its 682 km range (ARAI-certified for the 79 kWh variant), 281 hp power output, and fast-charging capability (20-80% in 20 minutes with a 175 kW DC charger) are class-leading. The feature list, including Level 2 ADAS, 5G connectivity, and OTA updates, is unmatched at this price point. While the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery disappoint some buyers, the vehicle’s performance, range, and technology make it a compelling choice for those prioritizing functionality over cabin luxury.
Myth 3: Competitors Offer Far Superior Interiors
Reality: Competitors like the Tata Curvv EV (₹17.49-21.99 lakh) and MG ZS EV (₹18.98-25.75 lakh) also use hard plastics in certain areas, but their fit and finish are perceived as slightly better. The Hyundai Creta Electric, a direct rival, offers softer materials and a more polished cabin, but it comes at a higher price point. The BE 6’s interior isn’t drastically worse than its peers; however, the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery stand out more due to the vehicle’s premium positioning and futuristic design, which raise expectations.
Verdict
The criticism of the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery is partially justified. While the BE 6’s interior is modern and feature-rich, the use of lower-quality materials in key areas undermines its premium aspirations, especially at ₹26.90 lakh. However, the vehicle’s strengths in performance, range, and technology outweigh this drawback for buyers who prioritize functionality over luxury.
Solutions: Addressing the Interior Quality Concerns
If the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery are genuine issues, what can Mahindra do to address them? Here are practical solutions:
1. Upgrade Material Quality in Future Variants
Mahindra could introduce a premium trim or mid-life refresh with softer plastics, higher-quality leatherette, and refined switchgear. Using matte finishes instead of glossy plastics would reduce scratch visibility and enhance durability. Competitors like Hyundai have successfully implemented such upgrades in response to feedback.
2. Offer Customization Options
Allowing buyers to opt for premium upholstery packages (e.g., full leather or Alcantara) at an additional cost could cater to those seeking a luxurious cabin. This approach, common in global markets, would give buyers flexibility while maintaining the BE 6’s competitive base price.
3. Enhance Fit and Finish
Improving the tactile feel of buttons, stalks, and the drive selector would elevate the cabin’s perceived quality. Mahindra could take cues from its own XUV700, which offers a more refined interior despite a lower price point.
4. Leverage OTA Updates for UI/UX
While not directly related to materials, refining the MAIA infotainment system’s user interface (currently in beta) could distract from material shortcomings. A seamless, intuitive UI can enhance the overall cabin experience.
5. Communicate Sustainability Benefits
Mahindra’s use of 50% recycled fabric is a step toward sustainability, but this isn’t effectively communicated to buyers. Highlighting the environmental benefits of these materials through marketing campaigns could shift perceptions and justify their use.
Comparing the BE 6’s Interior with Competitors
To contextualize the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery, let’s compare the BE 6’s interior with its key rivals:
| Vehicle | Price Range (₹ Lakh) | Interior Highlights | Material Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahindra BE 6 | 18.90-26.90 | Dual 12.3-inch screens, panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon audio, recycled fabric | Hard plastics, budget-grade upholstery; glossy elements prone to scratches |
| Tata Curvv EV | 17.49-21.99 | 12.3-inch touchscreen, ventilated seats, premium fabric/leatherette | Mix of soft and hard plastics; better fit and finish than BE 6 |
| MG ZS EV | 18.98-25.75 | 10.1-inch touchscreen, leatherette seats, panoramic sunroof | Soft-touch materials in key areas; more polished than BE 6 |
| Hyundai Creta EV | ~20.00-28.00 (est.) | 10.25-inch dual screens, premium leatherette, soft-touch dashboard | High-quality materials; best-in-class fit and finish |
Analysis: The BE 6’s interior is competitive in terms of features but lags in material quality. The hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery are more noticeable because of the vehicle’s premium price and futuristic design, which set high expectations.
User Feedback: What Buyers Are Saying
User reviews on platforms like CarDekho and ZigWheels provide valuable insights into buyer sentiments:
- Positive Feedback: Many buyers praise the BE 6’s design, range, and features. One user wrote, “The BE 6 is a head-turner. Mahindra really stepped up the design game here.” Another commented, “Best car for this price range. Global standard. Stylish.”
- Negative Feedback: Criticism centers on the interior materials. A CarWale user noted, “Hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery wow. Laggy touchscreen, frequent software crashes.” Another user on Team-BHP mentioned, “The only thing I miss from the base variant is ventilated seats. Fabric seats in the base are a plus, but the quality could be better.”
Takeaway: While the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery are a sore point, they don’t overshadow the BE 6’s strengths for many buyers. The vehicle’s value proposition remains strong, especially for those prioritizing range and technology.
Mahindra’s Strategy and Market Positioning
Mahindra’s decision to use hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery may reflect a strategic focus on affordability and technology. The BE 6’s INGLO platform, BYD-sourced blade cell batteries, and MAIA AI system are expensive components. To keep prices competitive (starting at ₹18.90 lakh), Mahindra likely prioritized these over premium interior materials.
Additionally, the BE 6 targets a younger, tech-savvy audience who value performance and connectivity over traditional luxury. The use of recycled materials aligns with global sustainability trends, even if it hasn’t fully resonated with Indian buyers accustomed to plush interiors.
Pros and Cons of the Mahindra BE 6
Pros
- Class-leading range (up to 682 km ARAI-certified)
- Powerful performance (0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds)
- Feature-packed cabin (Level 2 ADAS, 5G connectivity, Harman Kardon audio)
- Futuristic design with strong road presence
- Competitive pricing for the base variant (₹18.90 lakh)
Cons
- Hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery in the interior
- Restrictive rear headroom due to coupe-style roofline
- Beta-stage infotainment system with occasional glitches
- Charger cost not included in ex-showroom price
Should You Buy the Mahindra BE 6?
The hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery are undeniable drawbacks, but they don’t make the BE 6 a bad choice. If you prioritize range, performance, and cutting-edge features, the BE 6 is a compelling option in the ₹18.90-26.90 lakh segment. Its futuristic design, class-leading range, and tech-heavy cabin make it a standout, especially for younger buyers or EV enthusiasts.
However, if interior luxury and material quality are non-negotiable, you might want to consider alternatives like the Hyundai Creta Electric or MG ZS EV, which offer more polished cabins. Waiting for Mahindra to address these concerns in a mid-life refresh or premium trim could also be a prudent choice.
Final Thoughts: A Bold Step with Room for Refinement
The Mahindra BE 6 is a bold, forward-thinking EV that pushes the boundaries of design, performance, and technology. However, the hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery in its interior have disappointed some buyers, particularly at the ₹26.90 lakh price point. While the criticism is partially justified, it’s not a dealbreaker for those who value the vehicle’s strengths.
Mahindra has an opportunity to address these concerns through material upgrades, better fit and finish, and effective communication of its sustainability efforts. As the BE 6 continues to gain traction, it’s poised to redefine Mahindra’s place in the EV market—provided it can refine the cabin experience to match its ambitious vision.
FAQs
1. Why does the Mahindra BE 6 use hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery?
The use of hard plastics and budget-grade upholstery likely reflects Mahindra’s focus on keeping costs competitive while investing in advanced technology, such as the INGLO platform and MAIA AI system. The recycled fabric upholstery also aligns with sustainability goals.
2. How does the BE 6’s interior compare to competitors?
The BE 6’s interior is feature-rich but lags in material quality compared to rivals like the Hyundai Creta Electric and MG ZS EV, which offer softer plastics and premium upholstery. The Tata Curvv EV is closer in quality but has better fit and finish.
3. Can Mahindra improve the BE 6’s interior in the future?
Yes, Mahindra could introduce a premium trim with softer materials, refined switchgear, and upgraded upholstery. OTA updates to the MAIA infotainment system could also enhance the cabin experience.
4. Is the Mahindra BE 6 worth buying despite the interior concerns?
If you prioritize range, performance, and technology, the BE 6 is a strong contender. However, if interior luxury is a priority, consider alternatives or wait for potential upgrades in future variants.
