The Suzuki Saluto 125 automatic scooter (not to be confused with Yamaha’s India-spec Saluto commuter) has made its world premiere at the Taipei Motor Show. Designed to be pitted against Italian retro classic icons like the Vespa and Lambretta, the Saluto opts for a balanced blend of traditional and modern design cues.
The overall design is sleek with expressive surfaces, strategic usage of chrome accents and good color combo (the glossy grey paint job goes very well with contrast brown leather saddle). The full LED illumination (headlamp, turn indicators and taillight) are tastefully designed and integrate nicely with rest of the design.
The Suzuki Saluto 125 is not just about the style but also practicality. The urban runabout features remote key fob, external fuel filler cap, a neatly integrated storage bin on the front apron, a USB charging port, and so on. Chrome circular rear view mirror casings, chrome levers, and digi-analog instrument console are other noteworthy features.
The Suzuki Saluto 125 derives its powertrain from the Swish 125 which is also available in Taiwan. The 124 cc air-cooled engine is mated to a CVT to produce 9.4 hp and 10 Nm of torque. It is essentially the same engine that does duty in India-spec Suzuki Access 125 and Burgman 125 albeit in a higher state of tune.
The Saluto 125 is suspended by means of telescopic front fork and twin rear shock absorbers. The scooter is equipped with black finished alloy wheels, front disc brake and rear drum brake.
Although Suzuki has not revealed any plans to bring the Saluto to India, we think it would be an interesting addition to the company’s local portfolio as a premium offering. Of course, the nameplate has to be changed because Yamaha holds the rights for Saluto trademark in India.
Suzuki Motorcycles India has previously indicated that it is exploring the possibility of introducing higher capacity scooters (read 150 cc+ segment). The sales performance of Suzuki Burgman 125 in our market will play a crucial role in the automaker’s decision on a possible premium scooter offering in the future.
As of now, Suzuki is focused on updating its lineup to BS-6 standards. The Access 125 will be the first BS-6 product and is set to be launched in the coming days.