Can Hero Xoom 160 Succeed Where Yamaha Aerox Failed?

 

The launch of the Hero Xoom 160 has sparked curiosity among enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. With its impressive features and competitive pricing, many wonder if it can succeed where the Yamaha Aerox struggled. Let's delve into the details and see how these two scooters stack against each other.

Performance and Power

The Hero Xoom 160 is powered by a 156cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 14.81 PS at 8000 rpm. On the other hand, the Yamaha Aerox 155 comes with a 155cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine that delivers 15 PS at 8000 rpm. While the power difference is minimal, the Xoom 160's engine felt slightly more refined and offered an overall smoother ride.

Design and Features

The Hero Xoom 160 boasts a modern ADV-ish design that in my opinion appeals to both new as well as experienced riders. With a digital instrument console that offers smartphone connectivity, call/SMS alerts, and turn-by-turn navigation Xoom 160 will appeal to those looking to explore new places. It also features keyless ignition and a dual LED headlight setup. The Yamaha Aerox 155, while sporty and stylish, focuses more on appealing to younger riders, thereby restricting its audience base.

Comfort and Ride Quality

One of the key areas where the Hero Xoom 160 shines is comfort. It comes with telescopic front suspension and twin rear shock absorbers, providing a plush ride even on rough roads. The Aerox 155, on the other hand, has received criticism for its stiff rear suspension and lack of floor space. While the Yamaha felt ok to me, few of my friends and even my wife didn’t like its jarring ride quality.

Mileage and Efficiency

The Yamaha Aerox 155 has been praised for its impressive mileage, offering around 48.62 kmpl in city conditions. The Hero Xoom 160, while not yet tested extensively (I got to ride it for about 60km+), is expected to offer competitive mileage, making it a viable option for daily commuters.

Market Reception

Early response to the Hero Xoom 160 has been overwhelmingly positive. However, it is too early to judge how our market will respond to the scooter in the long run. The Yamaha Aerox 155, while popular among enthusiasts, faced criticism for its ride quality and lack of practicality. Despite the shortcomings, I would not mind an Aerox in my garage.

Conclusion

The Hero Xoom 160 has the potential to succeed, where the Yamaha Aerox failed by offering a well-rounded package of performance, comfort, and advanced features. Its competitive pricing and positive early reviews suggest that it could be a strong contender in the market. Only time will tell if it can live up to the expectations, but the initial signs are promising.

ADAS under Rs. 11 Lakh!!! Honda's Amazing Proposition ft. 2025 Honda Amaze

 

In a market where cutting-edge safety is often reserved for high-end luxury vehicles, Honda has made a groundbreaking move with the launch of the 2025 Honda Amaze. Ranging between Rs. 7.99 lakh and Rs. 10.89 lakh (ex-showroom), the Amaze is the most affordable car in India to offer ADAS, making it a game-changer in the compact sedan segment.

The Rise of ADAS

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are designed to enhance vehicle safety and driving comfort by providing features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Traditionally, these features have been available only in premium cars, but Honda has democratized this technology with the new-generation Amaze.

The 2025 Honda Amaze: 

Features and Specifications

The 2025 Honda Amaze is a compact sedan that combines practicality and bleeding-edge technology. Here are some key features and specifications:

Engine: The Amaze is powered by a 1.2L naturally aspirated i-VTEC petrol engine that produces 90 hp of power and 110 Nm of torque. It comes with a choice of a 5-speed manual transmission or a CVT automatic gearbox.

Fuel Efficiency: The manual model delivers a fuel efficiency of 18.65 km/l, while the CVT model offers 19.46 km/l.

Safety: The Amaze is equipped with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, hill-hold assist, electronic stability control (ESC), an ORVM-mounted Lane Watch camera on the left side, and a rearview camera. It also features Honda Sensing, the brand's suite of ADAS technologies.

Interior: The interior boasts a new dashboard layout with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a six-speaker music system, automatic climate control, rear AC vents, and a wireless phone charger.

Design: The Amaze features a refreshed design with a honeycomb front grille, Bi-Projector LED headlights, and new rear-view mirrors. The Honda City-ish LED taillights with always-on elements and 15-inch alloy wheels add to its modern look.

Why the 2025 Honda Amaze is a Game-Changer

The introduction of ADAS in a budget-friendly car like the Amaze is a significant step forward for automotive safety in India. By making these advanced features accessible to a wider audience, Honda is not only enhancing road safety but also setting a new standard for affordable cars.

Market Impact and Competition

The 2025 Honda Amaze directly competes with other compact sedans like the Maruti Suzuki Dzire, Tata Tigor, and Hyundai Aura. With its combination of advanced safety features, efficient engine, and competitive pricing, the Amaze is well-positioned to capture a significant share of the market.

Conclusion

The 2025 Honda Amaze is a testament to Honda's commitment to innovation and safety. By offering ADAS at an affordable price, Honda has made advanced driving technology accessible to the masses. This move not only benefits consumers but also sets a new benchmark for the industry. The Amaze is a compelling proposition for anyone looking for a safe, efficient, and feature-packed compact sedan without breaking the bank.