If scooters had a VIP lounge, the Aprilia SXR 160 would be the one sitting in the corner sipping espresso, dressed sharp, and drawing glances from across the room.
This is no ordinary two-wheeler—it’s a maxi-scooter designed to offer the comfort of a touring bike, the performance of a sporty commuter, and the flair that only an Italian-bred brand like Aprilia can pull off.
Launched in India at a price of around ₹1.45 lakh (ex-showroom), the SXR 160 is Aprilia’s answer to riders who want more than just a way to get to work—they want a ride that looks good, feels premium, and can handle both the weekday rush and weekend getaways.
First Impressions – Design That Commands Attention
The SXR 160 carries unmistakable Aprilia DNA. Inspired by the brand’s sportbikes like the RS 660, the scooter wears an aggressive front apron with sharp twin LED headlamps and a sleek tinted windscreen. The design isn’t just sporty—it’s balanced, blending aerodynamic curves with muscular proportions.
Subtle carbon-look panels on the handlebars and side bodywork add a premium texture, while crisp graphics give it a more dynamic stance. The wide front body and stretched-out side profile give it maxi-scooter proportions that instantly set it apart from typical 125 cc or 150 cc scooters you see on the road.
Aprilia offers it in four striking colors—White, Blue, Black, and Red—and each looks just as premium in real life as in the showroom brochure.
Engine & Performance – Power to Match the Presence
Beneath the stylish skin is a 160.03 cc, BS6-compliant, single-cylinder, three-valve, fuel-injected i-get engine—the same one powering the Aprilia SR 160. This unit produces around 10.94 bhp at 7,600 rpm and 12.13 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm.
That might not sound like race-bike territory, but for a scooter, it delivers brisk acceleration and a strong mid-range that’s perfect for darting through city traffic or holding a steady cruise on longer stretches. The CVT automatic transmission keeps things simple—twist the throttle and you’re moving, with no jerks or lags.
Fuel efficiency stands at around 35 km/l, which is respectable given the engine size and performance. With a 7-litre tank, you can expect a range of about 240 km on a full fill, making it practical for daily commutes as well as short weekend rides.
Comfort & Practicality – Built for Long and Short Journeys Alike
Maxi-scooters are known for their comfortable riding posture, and the SXR 160 is no exception. The wide, well-padded seat ensures comfort for both rider and pillion, even during longer rides. The flat and spacious footboard allows relaxed leg positioning, while the tall handlebar keeps you from hunching forward.
The scooter also offers plenty of storage options—a lockable glovebox in the front (with a USB charging port inside for your phone or gadgets) and decent under-seat storage for essentials. While you may not fit a full-face helmet under the seat, it’s spacious enough for a half-face helmet, rain gear, or daily shopping.
Technology & Features – More Than Just Looks
One of the highlights of the SXR 160 is its fully digital instrument cluster—a first for Aprilia scooters in India. The display packs in speed, rpm, fuel level, average fuel consumption, ambient temperature, trip meters, and even a clock. It’s crisp, easy to read, and adds to the scooter’s modern character.
The full-LED lighting setup (headlamps, DRLs, and tail lamps) not only enhances the look but also offers good visibility at night. The illuminated switchgear is another small but premium touch that makes the riding experience feel special.
Handling & Safety – Confident on Any Road
The Aprilia SXR 160 is built on a solid frame with a telescopic front fork and twin shock absorbers at the rear. This setup strikes a good balance between comfort and stability—absorbing bumps well while still feeling planted during turns.
For braking, you get a 220 mm front disc with single-channel ABS and a rear drum brake. While some might prefer dual-channel ABS, the setup here offers predictable and confident stopping power, even in sudden braking situations.
Weighing around 129 kg, the scooter feels stable at high speeds but still light enough to handle easily in city traffic. Its 12-inch alloy wheels with wide tyres also add to the grip and ride confidence.
Pricing & Value – Premium, but Worth It
At ₹1.45 lakh ex-showroom, the SXR 160 isn’t cheap—especially when you can get a 125 cc scooter for half the price. But this isn’t a fair comparison. The SXR 160 plays in a premium niche, competing more with the likes of the Yamaha Aerox 155 and Suzuki Burgman Street EX.
Compared to rivals, the Aprilia stands out for its Italian styling, roomy ergonomics, and mature ride quality. On-road prices will vary by city, often touching ₹1.8 lakh in metros after adding RTO charges and insurance.
Final Verdict
The Aprilia SXR 160 isn’t trying to be the scooter for everyone—and that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s bold, comfortable, and modern, with just enough performance to keep your rides exciting. If you’re willing to invest in something that turns heads, feels premium, and offers a dash of European flair, the SXR 160 might just be the perfect addition to your garage.
