The Indian two-wheeler market has seen rapid evolution, especially in the scooter segment. While fuel efficiency and practicality have traditionally driven scooter sales, the tide is now shifting toward performance, style, and premium features. Introducing the Hero XOOM 160, a bold, sporty, and feature-packed scooter that marks Hero MotoCorp’s entry into the premium 160cc maxi-scooter segment.
Hero XOOM 160: A Quick Overview
- Segment: Premium 160cc Scooter / Maxi-Scooter
- Expected Launch: Late 2025 (India)
- Expected Price: ₹1.30 lakh – ₹1.45 lakh (ex-showroom)
- Competition: Aprilia SR 160, Yamaha Aerox 155, and Suzuki Burgman Street EX
Bold and Futuristic Design
The Hero XOOM 160 scooter takes a sharp detour from Hero’s traditionally conservative design language. It features a futuristic, edgy bodywork with:
- Dual-tone finishes
- Tall windscreen for improved aerodynamics
- Split LED headlamp setup
- Aggressive front apron
- Step-up seat and wide footboards
The scooter rides on block-pattern 14-inch tyres, hinting at dual-purpose capability, making it not just a city slicker but also a light tourer.
Performance and Engine Specs
Under the hood, the Hero XOOM 160 houses a 156cc liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine mated to a CVT transmission. While official power figures haven’t been disclosed, it’s expected to produce around:
- Power: ~14 bhp
- Torque: ~13 Nm
This puts it squarely in the league of Yamaha Aerox 155 and Aprilia SR160.
With liquid cooling, Hero ensures better heat management and higher performance, making the XOOM 160 suitable for longer rides, not just daily commutes.
Chassis, Suspension, and Ride Comfort
The XOOM 160 is built on a tubular steel frame and comes equipped with:
- Telescopic front forks
- Monoshock rear suspension
- Front and rear disc brakes
- Single-channel ABS for enhanced safety
Hero has also given the XOOM a 12-liter under-seat storage, along with a front glove box and USB charging port, further enhancing its practicality.
Features That Add Value
In tune with market expectations, Hero is loading the XOOM 160 with modern, tech-driven features:
- Fully digital LCD instrument cluster
- Smartphone connectivity via Hero Connect
- Turn-by-turn navigation
- Call and SMS alerts
- Keyless start (expected)
- LED DRLs and tail lamps
- USB charging port
The inclusion of Bluetooth-enabled tech and smart features positions the XOOM 160 as a compelling option for Gen-Z and urban riders.
Target Audience:
If you’re a:
- A college student seeking a tech-savvy, sporty scooter
- Urban commuter who wants both performance and comfort
- Weekend explorer seeking a lightweight, agile tourer
- First-time buyer wanting a stylish scooter with advanced features
…then the Hero XOOM 160 ticks many boxes.
Hero XOOM 160 vs Rivals:
| Specification | Hero XOOM 160* | Yamaha Aerox 155 | Aprilia SR160 | Suzuki Burgman EX |
| Engine (cc) | 156cc | 155cc | 160cc | 124cc |
| Cooling | Liquid-cooled | Liquid-cooled | Air-cooled | Air-cooled |
| Power | ~14 bhp | 15 bhp | 11 bhp | 8.6 bhp |
| ABS | Single-channel | Single-channel | Single-channel | Single-channel |
| Smart Features | Hero Connect | Yamaha Connect | Aprilia MIA (optional) | Bluetooth enabled |
| Expected Price (INR) | ₹1.35 lakh | ₹1.48 lakh | ₹1.45 lakh | ₹1.15 lakh |
*Estimated specs for Hero XOOM 160
The XOOM 160 offers a middle ground between performance and practicality, while Yamaha Aerox leans more toward performance, and the Burgman EX toward comfort.
Launch Timeline and Expected Pricing
Hero MotoCorp has confirmed that the XOOM 160 will go on sale in India by the end of 2025. With its global-first approach and rising popularity of maxi scooters in India, Hero is expected to position itself competitively.
- Expected Ex-showroom Price: ₹1.30 – ₹1.45 lakh
- Expected Launch: Q4 2025
Bookings are expected to start online via Hero’s website and dealerships closer to launch.
Should You Wait for the Hero XOOM 160?
The Hero XOOM 160 represents a bold shift in Hero MotoCorp’s strategy, moving from utilitarian scooters to aspirational machines that appeal to young, tech-savvy buyers. If Hero can offer competitive pricing with a refined ride and strong after-sales support, it may become one of the best-selling performance scooters in its category.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Sporty, aggressive design
- Liquid-cooled engine
- Feature-loaded with Hero Connect
- Likely priced below the competition
Conclusion:
The Hero XOOM 160 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting scooters of 2025, signaling Hero’s intent to go premium. With its eye-catching design, advanced connectivity features, and a capable powertrain, it’s poised to take on the established players in the 160cc scooter segment.
