Piaggio is getting serious about its Indian operations and that’s quite evident at the 2014 Auto Expo where the company is currently showcasing its entire India specific portfolio. The motorcycles on display are from world class brands like Vespa, Moto Guzzi and Aprilia at its stall. While the RSV4 is getting all the flashes; the uber stylish Vespa 946 scooter is the one garnering everyone’s attention. The Italian manufacturer is betting big on these models to make their presence felt in the Indian two-wheeler market.
The Vespa 946 is an amalgamation of retro style and modern technology. The scooter takes its design cues from the very first 1946 Vespa, also what the 946 stands for. The flagship Vespa comes with sophisticated Italian style, smooth curves and an attractive floating seat. The 946 is also the first model from the Vespa range to use aluminium in the design. You also get leather handle grips with stitching to the fine polish. Every premium component on the 946 has been assembled by hand. In terms of modern technology, the 946 gets an LCD instrument cluster, LED headlamps and tail lights. The scooter also boasts of a host of safety features like front and rear disc brakes, ABS, ASR (Anti-Slip Regulator) and Traction Control System.
Powering the Vespa 946 will be two engine options. First is the 125cc engine that churns out 11.95 PS of power and 10.3 Nm of torque, while the second is the 150cc engine producing 13.2 PS of power and 12.6 Nm of torque. The Vespa 946 boasts of excellent build quality and will be brought through the CBU route when launched in India. With the kind of design and equipment on board, the Vespa 946 isn’t going to be cheap and will be priced at around Rs. 2 lakhs (ex-showroom) when launched.
The 946 will be brought on Indian shores by the end of this year. While it may not seem a smart buy considering the powertrain available, it surely is a stylish way of arriving.
