Honda has officially patented the design of its PCX160 maxi-scooter in India, hinting at a potential entry into the premium 160cc scooter space. Already a popular model in Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia and the Philippines, the PCX160 could soon find itself taking on the likes of the Yamaha Aerox 155 and the Hero Xoom 160 on Indian roads.
A 160cc Honda Scooter for India?
The design patent filing is noteworthy because it aligns with Honda’s intent to introduce a 160cc scooter in India. While the company has registered several models in the country before—such as the Forza 350, Hawk 11, and Beat—many have not transitioned beyond the paperwork stage. However, the PCX160’s appearance in the patent registry might suggest that this time, things are different.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the PCX160 lies a liquid-cooled, 157cc single-cylinder engine that delivers 16hp and 14.7Nm of torque. These numbers closely match those of its rivals: the Yamaha Aerox 155 (15hp, 13.9Nm) and the Hero Xoom 160 (14.8hp, 14Nm). The scooter is built around an underbone frame, supported by telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers, mirroring the mechanical layout of its competitors.
Features and Equipment
The PCX160 stands out with a robust feature list, including:
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Keyless ignition
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A fully digital LCD instrument cluster
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Single-channel ABS
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A spacious 30-litre underseat storage compartment
In terms of hardware, the PCX rolls on a slightly different wheel setup—a 14-inch front and 13-inch rear alloy combination—whereas both the Aerox and Xoom opt for 14-inch wheels at both ends.
Will It Launch in India?
While the patent does add weight to speculation, there’s no official word from Honda about a launch timeline. Given the company’s history of filing patents without following through, it’s too early to confirm if the PCX160 will make its Indian debut. Still, the timing suggests Honda may be seriously considering tapping into the growing demand for sporty and feature-packed 160cc scooters.
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