Aprilia Launches SXR GT 175 Scooter With Larger Wheels and New Engine

Italian scooter maker Aprilia has launched the new SXR GT 175 in India at an introductory price of Rs 1.30 lakh, ex-showroom Maharashtra, as part of a two-model update alongside a 125cc version. The company introduced this new variant with a GT suffix to counter growing competition in the premium scooter market from rivals like TVS, Hero, Yamaha, and Honda.

Design And Features

Aside from new colours and graphics, the scooter looks nearly identical to the older SXR 160 model it replaces, retaining its Italian design and three new shades including vibrant blue, stealthy black, and camo army green. It features a bright colour TFT display with Bluetooth for calls, notifications, and navigation, though it only includes a single trip meter and lacks a multi-function ignition key slot for the boot. Practical storage includes fully enclosed front apron cubbies with a USB-A charging port, while a 32-litre accessory top box is sold separately.

Ride And Performance

The most prominent change is the new 14-inch wheel setup, which increases ground clearance to 170mm and raises the seat height to 800mm, making it the tallest seat on any made-in-India petrol scooter. The scooter weighs 132kg and is powered by a 174.4cc, 3-valve motor that produces a gruff idle and rewards energetic riding with smooth high-speed performance up to an indicated 110kph. While the larger wheels provide high-speed stability and better cornering, they cause heavier steering at slow speeds and a stiff front fork over rough bumps.

Context

Aprilia aims to expand its retail network to 250 showrooms in India before the end of the year, up from its current 230 locations. The brand established its performance footprint in India back in 2015 with the launch of the SR 150 before moving into attainable maxi-style scooters with the SXR 160 in 2020.