The Vespa scooters have been replaced by the new VXL and SXL models with a redesigned front fascia among other bits, and it does not make sense for the company to sell both models together.
Having updated its entire product range in India recently, Piaggio has silently discontinued the older Vespa LX, VX and S range of scooters in the country. The Italian two-wheeler maker has also removed the scooters off its website, save for the Elegante limited edition model that is still available at dealerships. The new 125cc scooters have been dubbed as the Vespa VXL and SXL, and have been joined by their 150cc counterparts, currently the most powerful scooters on sale in the country.
With the latest update, the Piaggio Vespa VXL and SXL get a redesigned front apron, revised turn indicators and tail light design, forged levers, revised instrument cluster with two trip metres, 5-spoke alloy wheels and new colours. Adding to the list is a revised suspension setup, whereas the same 125cc single-cylinder motor continues to churn out 10 HP and 10.6 Nm of torque. The Vespa VXL and SXL 150 range differentiates itself with meatier tyres, while power comes from a 150cc single-cylinder motor producing 11.6 PS at 7000 RPM and 11.5 Nm of torque available at 5500 RPM.
Unlike Indian and Japanese scooter manufacturers that are looking at volumes in the scooter space, Piaggio has always positioned the Vespa as a niche player conveying that volumes are never a concern. Hence, the strategy of simultaneously selling the pre-facelift and new models with a marginal price difference does not make that much business sense for the company as it would for others. That said, if you do fancy the older models more, you must check out with dealers in your vicinity for stocks and could even get some healthy discounts.
2015 Vespa VXL & SXL Prices (ex-showroom, Pune) –
* Vespa VXL 125 – Rs. 77,308/-
* Vespa SXL 125 – Rs. 81,967/-
* Vespa VXL 150 – Rs. 84,641/-
* Vespa SXL 150 – Rs. 88,696/-
