India’s most popular automatic scooter has just received a major update. The Honda Activa 6G is here to retain the iconic nameplate’s undisputed status into the fast approaching BS6 era. Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India ltd. (HMSI) not only has given its cash cow a powertrain update but also spruced up the design and added a quite a few additional features.
Let’s see how does the Honda Activa 6G compare with the outgoing Activa 5G which will be retailing until the stocks last or the BS6 emission deadline kicks in on April 1, 2020 (whichever is earlier). The Honda Activa has always favoured a non-flashy styling and the 6th iteration is not any different.
Compared to its predecessor, the changes are evolutionary. The front apron and bodywork have gotten sleeker while the taillight cluster has gotten slightly wider. The Activa also receives an external fuel filler cap for added practicality.
In terms of dimensions, the Activa 6G is a good 72 mm longer with an increase in wheelbase of 22 mm compared to the Activa 5G. The new scooter is also 13 mm narrower, 2 mm taller and has a best-in-class ground clearance of 171 mm. The changes have added 2 kg to the kerb weight (109 kg).
In addition to the changes in the wheelbase and length, the 12-inch front wheel (5G employs 10-inch unit) and telescopic front suspension (finally) are expected to improve the overall riding dynamics significantly. The braking system with 130 mm drums at either end, supported by CBS has been retained.
Coming to the business end of the things, the Honda Activa 6G’s engine is not just a nip and tuck of the previous unit. Honda has increased the stroke a wee bit at the expense of bore to arrive at a 109.51 cc (as against 5G’s 109.19 cc unit) air-cooled engine which now breaths via the company’s famed PGM-FI. The power and torque figures have witnessed a marginal drop at 7.68 hp (as against 8 hp) and 8.79 Nm (as against 9 Nm). The revised engine is claimed to offer 10% better fuel efficiency.
As far as features go, the new Honda Activa 6G packs LED headlamps, multi-function switch and engine kill switch. The latest iteration is priced at INR 63,912 (Ex-showroom), dearer than its predecessor by INR 7,978. For the premium, you get a fuel-injected engine, better design and a host of additional features.
