Vespa S launched at Rs 74,414

Piaggio expanded its scooter portfolio by launching the Vespa S. The new offering is the third scooter for the Indian two-wheeler market from the stables of the Italian manufacturer after the standard Vespa and Vespa VX. It wasn’t the first time that the scooter made its public appearance, as it was unveiled at the recently concluded 2014 Auto Expo. With an intention to set the Vespa S visually apart, designers have employed a 1970s-styled square headlight in contrast to the round one found on the standard Vespa and VX. The same theme has been carried forward to the square mirrors, which have been finished in chrome. Also Read: Vespa S Review

To further differentiate the Vespa S from its sibling, the new scooter employs a re-styled mudguard, which has been cut back further to reveal more of the front suspension and the spring on the front suspension has been finished in red. The three-spoke wheels have been painted black to provide contrast and the seat profile has been changed with a distinct white piping adding to the scooters charm. In tune with its retro-styling, the analogue instrument cluster has been re-designed completely and it sports an analogue speedometer, digital clock, fuel gauge, and different tell-tale lights. To make the Vespa S more useful in carrying knick-knacks, two slots have been provided on the body alongwith a separate hook to hang bags.

The changes made on the Vespa S are only cosmetic and it will be powered by the same mill as found on the standard Vespa. The 125cc, 4-stroke, 3-valve engine produces 10.06PS @ 7,500rpm and a torque figure of 10.6Nm @ 6,000rpm and would be mated to a CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) automatic transmission. The Vespa S will be available in a varied array of the standard striking colours, and we feel that, Piaggio will also introduce the new orange and matte black shades that it had showcased at the 2014 Auto Expo on the new scooter.  Priced at Rs 74,414 (ex-showroom Pune), the Vespa S is cheap by no means and its sales will be restricted, and it is fine for Piaggio, as it wants to remain as a premium scooter manufacturer in our two-wheeler market.