TVS Ntorq 125 – An In-depth Review
TVS Ntorq 125 has carved a niche for itself as one of the most feature-packed scooters in the 125cc segment since its launch. Packed with connectivity, navigation, striking looks and peppy performance – it seems to tick most boxes for style-conscious young buyers.
Priced from Rs 87,133 onwards for the base Drum variant, TVS retails the Ntorq 125 across 6 trim levels total along with 14 color options to match personalization tastes – highest in any scooter on sale. We break down everything you need to know in this in-depth review focusing on pricing, performance, features, ownership experience and how it fares against rivals.
Background
Before diving in, some history helps provide context. TVS Motor Company introduced the Ntorq 125 back in February 2018 as a sporty ‘performance scooter’ catering to India’s demand for feature loaded mobility.
Earlier most scooters followed conventional template – focusing primarily on fuel efficiency and utility without much excitement. The Ntorq bucked traditions with its tech enabledinstrument console, Bluetooth connectivity, striking superbike inspired styling themes and lively 125cc heart beating energetic acceleration.
This daring formula targeting enthusiastic youngsters for their first two-wheeler purchase paid off handsomely. In the 4 years since launch, TVS has sold over 8 lakh Ntorq 125 units already notwithstanding disruption from Covid lockdowns and supply issues.
Let’s examine what makes the Ntorq 125 such a popular choice.
TVS Ntorq 125 Price and Variants Explained
The Drum brake variant is the most affordable Ntorq 125 model with a reasonable starting price tag of Rs 87,133 ex-showroom before regional taxes. However most buyers prefer the Disc brake trim priced from Rs 92,863 for superior braking bite, which adds around Rs 6,000 over the base Drum.
Here is a detailed breakdown of TVS Ntorq 125 pricing across the 6 variants available:
| Variant | Price | Additional Features |
|---|---|---|
| Drum | Rs 87,133 | – |
| Disc | Rs 92,863 | Front disc brake |
| Race Edition | Rs 96,906 | Hazard lamps, metallic red paint |
| Super Squad Edition | Rs 98,952 | Exclusive graphics, red alloy wheels |
| Race XP | Rs 1,00,522 | 128cc engine, higher power |
| XT | Rs 1,08,488 | SmartXonnect platform |
Key Takeaways on Ntorq 125 Variants:
- The special Race XP and XT variants cater to enthusiasts focused on performance or connectivity
- Expect to pay around Rs 10,000-12,000 more for range topping editions
- Additional features bundled on premium variants include hazard lights, graphics, alloy wheels and more
In terms of finance schemes, most banks offer flexible EMI plans starting from just Rs 2,989 per month for the Ntorq 125 facilitating easy ownership. That represents formidable value when we account for the scooter’s equipment.
Buying Advice
Our recommendation is the Disc variant strikes the best balance between price and features for most buyers. The front disc brake adds crucial safety net, while utility like external fuel filling stay intact.
Only petrol heads determined on more performance need opt for the Race XP. The XT makes sense for those wanting smartphone connectivity – but the excellent instrumentation otherwise reduces need for the feature. Rest of the range caters to preferences for aesthetics without compromises.
Mileage, Performance and Engine Specs
At the heart of the TVS Ntorq 125 sits a 124.8cc single-cylinder air-cooled BS6 compliant engine matched to fuel injection. This updated motor continues to put out a healthy max output of 9.25 bhp at 7,000 RPM alongside 10.5 Nm torque at 5,500 RPM similar to the older BS4 version.
Performance
Throttle response stays peppy – the Ntorq 125 feels especially eager picking up from low revs thanks to the strong mid-range punch. Acceleration across in-gear speed ranges feel effortless helped by smart CVT gearing, near vibe-free refinement and a lightweight 118 kg kerb weight aiding nimble city friendly handling.
The NTorq is no slouch by scooter standards – it will happily hit a 90+ kmph top speed with reasonable stability helped by 12 inch wheels, stiff chassis and suspension. Smokers at traffic lights often underestimate its acceleration only to be left behind!
Fuel Efficiency
The fuel injected motor also ensures consistent mileage around 42 kmpl returned under real world riding conditions including city stop-go traffic. While not segment leading, it translates into an acceptable 200 km range from the 5.8 liter fuel tank capacity. Some owners report up to 48 kmpl run when riding carefully on highways.
How does this compare against rivals? The TVS Ntorq 125 sits behind Honda’s Grazia (45 kmpl) and Activa 125 (50 kmpl) in efficiency, but matches Suzuki’s popular Access 125 scooter’s 40-45 kmpl claim. So reasonable rather than standout economy.
Our Take
Keen enthusiasts or those chasing every kilometer from petrol needs might be disappointed. But the peppy acceleration trade-off is well worth it for most youngsters in our opinion. Daily city commuting, weekend getaways – the Ntorq 125 excels across conditions where quick overtakes or uphill climbs matter too alongside mileage.
Features and Hardware
An area where the Ntorq 125 clearly shines over conventional scooters is its equipment tally. The fully digital instrument cluster offers exceptional clarity and packs in Bluetooth mobile pairing for caller ID/SMS alerts alongside navigation support. It integrates nicely with smartphone apps as well.
Additional functional features bolster practicality further:
- Combi Braking System – links both brakes automatically distributing braking power for shorter stopping distance
- Hazard lamps – useful safety addition indicating emergency stops
- External fuel filler cap – saves walking to petrol pump when refueling
- 22 liter underseat storage
- Telescopic suspension up front – aids stability and soak up undulations
- 10 inch alloy wheels on some variants – complements sporty appeal
- 5 year standard manufacturer warranty for peace of mind
The features have only improved as TVS frequently introduces additional variants like the Connect XT recently – gaining smart connectivity functions through the SmartXonnect platform.
SmartXonnect Connectivity
The Ntorq 125 XT’s headline feature is the SmartXonnect connectivity platform. Once paired to your smartphone via Bluetooth, it enables useful functionality:
- Incoming Call alerts
- Missed call alerts
- SMS notification
- Navigation assist
- Last parked location
Theall-LED console itself brims with information including time, speed, trip data, navigation prompts and even suggests service appointments among the comprehensive digital displays.
Our Take
While the excellent instrumentation and hazard lamps sufficiently cover essentials for most people, the SmartXonnect suite no doubt adds high-end luxury.
We recommend tapping the feature by choosing the XT variant if you prioritize staying perpetually connected on the move beyond justHandlebar controls,glove box charger or listening to music. Familiar hero-to-zero acceleration is retained despite the upgrades too.
Design and Appearance
Styled akin to a modern stealth aircraft, the Ntorq 125’s sharp aerodynamic panels accentuated by distinct creases and bulges lend an eye catching persona that stands out from typically curvy scooter designs. Elements like faux air vents, aircraft inspired illuminated LED headlamps, split grab rails, edgy graphics and tri-tone colors create a desirable sporty profile.
Whether its subdued metallic shades, or loud accent colors using contrasting hues – with 14 colors total the palette spans conservative and radical choices. Some hero colors like Combat Blue or Yellow seen on TVS sponsored motorsports livery further the race-inspired positioning. Matte finishes also feature.
The cockpit uses a mix of digital displays, tell-tale lights and easy to read analog dials conveying key trip data – everything falls easy to hand without taking eyes off the road for long. Ergonomics seem designed for younger riders with a sporty leaning forward stance. Pillion comfort is reasonable. The stubby rear end styling takes cues from sportsbikes wrapped around 12 inch wheels on some variants.
Several design elements reflect aeronautical influences:
- Faux air scoops and vents
- Aircraft styled front LED lamps
- Metallic finish trims
- Contoured fuel tank appearance
By echoing aviation forms in a scooter shell, the Ntorq visually suggests dynamism, speed and technical flair associated with fighter planes. The rising sportbike-esque tail section adds to the effect.
Color Options
Prospective buyers get 14 colors to choose from spanning bright pop shades, cool metallic finishes, matte textures and motorsports inspired accents:
- Metallic Blue
- Metallic Grey
- Metallic Red
- Combat Blue
- Stealth Black
- Race Red Black
- Race Yellow Black
- Amazing White
- Lightning Yellow
- Matte Yellow
- Matte Red
Dual tone combinations and accents within variants like the red pinstripe detailing on the yellow Ntorq 125 Race XP provide depth. Customization potential looks stellar.
Our Take
The Ntorq 125’s standout looks reflect freshness still noticeable years from launch. Elements like the signature C-shaped LED tail lamps, sculpted panels, faux carbon fiber trim around exposed engine distinguish its modernity from conservative peers.
Youngsters in our observation eye it as the athletic heartthrob in scooter segment. We expect the sharp design to age gracefully for the performance positioning. Panel plastic feel could improve but finish levels feel reasonable.
Expert Opinion on the Ntorq 125 Scooter
Over its life-cycle TVS has diligently refined and updated the Ntorq 125 to stay contemporary. Experts posit its popularity stems from nailing the formula today’s youth desire – a tech loaded scooter flaunting standout looks without the compromises inevitable in budget 2-wheelers.
It scores on critical areas that matter:
Connectivity – Navigation and Bluetooth integration was unheard of in budget scooters earlier. TVS pioneered bringing higher segment features at a modest price point.
Peppy Performance – A perky 124cc heart pumping out brisk acceleration complements the sporty styling. Open roads or heavy traffic – the Ntorq 125 feels consistently responsive.
Value – Generous features kit and riding dynamics make it India’s performance scooter bargain hard to beat at below Rs 1 lakh. You get premium bells and whistles otherwise seen in double the price abroad.
What the Experts Say
“In our performance tests the Ntorq 125Really impresses with its strong mid-range. Overtaking is effortless, it almost feels like a 150cc scooter! Between this excellent engine and features never before seen in Indian scooters like Bluetooth and navigation, TVS seems to have cracked the youth formula.”* – MotorBeam Review
“The Ntorq 125’s SmartXonnect system is addictively convenient and well integrated. Once you get used to call/ text alerts and navigation without glancing your phone, you won’t want to return to normal clusters. It works flawlessly provided your phone has Bluetooth.”* – BikeWale Review
Drawbacks sources point out include efficiency not quite matching Japanese rivals, and use of hard plastics detracting from panel gaps in some areas. But as an overall package – the Ntorq 125 still leads mainstream scooter expectations at its price point in India.
Our Final Verdict
Summing up our comprehensive review focusing on the Ntorq 125’s pricing, performance, features, design and ownership prospectus – TVS has compellingly bridged aspirations and reality for India’s Gen Z scooter buyers.
It represents a practical sweet spot balancing must-have acceleration, equipment, ride quality and affordability without drastic compromises – all wrapped up in gorgeous head turning style bound to grab eyeballs.
While slightly improved interior quality and efficiency gains would make it sweeter, the minor rough edges fade from consideration given the value it bundles. And that’s what makes the Ntorq 125 such a hard contender to beat as India’s favorite ‘power scooter’ today.
In our view the positives outweigh negatives by some margin for its positioning. Expect a versatile city performance scooter balancing technology, usability and excitement with little sacrifice required.
Our Suggestion
Youngsters prioritizing value can start with the Drum or Disc variant. Adding Rs 10,000 extra for the Race XP or SmartXonnect platform should suffice for most. Beyond lies enthusiasts territory!
For all the indicators to a brighter electric future it represents through segment benchmarks, the Ntorq 125 warrants consideration alongside conventional 110-125cc scooters on shopping lists.
Test ride to believe its potent mix of usable fun, features and affordability minus significant drawbacks. Still raising the bar years on, TVS deserves applause for this standout package.
