Buy Or Hold: TVS NTorq 125 vs Yamaha Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid

The mild-hybrid version of the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 seems promising. But is it good enough for prospective customers to wait for, over the already-existing TVS NTorq 125?

During the unveiling of the Yamaha Fascino 125 Fi Hybrid and the launch of the Yamaha FZ-X, the Japanese brand also announced that the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid (both the standard and Street Rally variants) will be launched soon. The Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid carries over the same set of new features that the updated Fascino gets, making it one of the most feature-packed scooters in the 125cc segment. But is the updated Ray ZR 125 worth the wait, or should you just go ahead and buy the already-existing and feature-loaded TVS NTorq 125? We analyse:

Wait for the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid:

Yamaha has equipped the mild-hybrid variant of the Ray ZR 125 Fi with the same set of features as the Fascino 125 Fi Hybrid, meaning, it also gets an all-LED headlamp (only in the Street Rally variant), bluetooth connectivity, and an engine enhanced by a mild-hybrid system. The bluetooth connectivity module enables the rider to access several functions including the last parked location, engine malfunction alert, call and message alerts, and even mileage.

The Smart Motor Generator in the powerplant is responsible for silent starts in the current-generation version. This device has now been upgraded to double up as an electric motor, giving extra acceleration when the scooter gets moving from standstill. And thanks to the electric motor, the peak torque has gone up from 9.7Nm to 10.3Nm, though the peak power remains the same at 8.2PS. Thanks to the electric motor taking a share of the load during acceleration, expect the mileage to also go up marginally. The current-generation model already returns an impressive 66.23kmpl in the city and 56.28kmpl on the highway in our tests. 

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So if you want a lightweight and sporty looking 125cc scooter with excellent efficiency and great features, then it’s worth waiting for the Ray ZR 125 Fi Hybrid.

Buy the TVS NTorq 125:

The TVS NTorq 125 is not only loaded with features but is also one of the sportiest looking scooters in its segment. It’s got a powerful 3-valve 124.8cc single-cylinder fuel-injected engine churning out a healthy 9.38 PS and 10.5Nm. There’s no fancy tech like silent starter or mild-hybrid system here like the RayZR 125 Hybrid, but it will surely put a smile on your face when you twist the throttle. The claimed top speed stands at 95kmph, whereas it took 9.26 seconds to accelerate from 0-60kmph in our tests. These are pretty decent for a scooter of its class. 

It is also quite practical thanks to the info-laden fully digital smartphone-compatible instrument cluster that features turn-by-turn navigation, call alerts, multiple display modes and even a lap timer. The Race Edition gets an all-LED headlamp and if you’re a Marvel fan, you could opt for the Super Squad Edition that gets unique liveries inspired by Marvel heroes. The scooter also gets a generous 20-litre underseat storage with illumination, utility hooks, USB charging port and an external fuel tank cap for extra practicality.

The TVS NTorq 125 is a great buy for those looking for an affordable, sporty yet practical scooter. It’s easy on the pocket thanks to its starting price of Rs 71,095. On the other hand, the Yamaha Ray ZR 125 now costs Rs 73,330 (both ex-showroom Delhi), so expect the mild-hybrid variant to be dearer by around Rs 15,000.