Yamaha Records Dismal Sales For The MT-15

But there is also news of an upgrade just around the corner

[UPDATE: Yamaha has launched the MT-15 Version 2.0 in India. From pricing to specs and features, check out the details in our launch story]

Yamaha sold precisely zero units of the MT-15 in India in February this year, though it did at least export 80 units of the 120-unit production run. Now, though the dismal domestic sales performance might hit you as a bolt from the blue, the sales of Yamaha’s entry-level streetfighter have in fact shown a downturn since December 2021. For reference, while 1100 units of the MT-15 were produced in December ’21, and the total sales amounted to 1700 units, January ’22 showcased a production run of just 80 units, and total sales of just 17! 

But then why would Yamaha be phasing it out? Well, because it’s due for an upgrade! From what we know so far, based on leaked type approval documents, the 2022 MT-15, taking a cue from the R15 V4, will get USD forks up front, dual-channel ABS, and bluetooth connectivity. Yes, we realise the R15 V4 also gets traction control and a quickshifter, but considering the MT-15’s road-biased nature, these track-specific features will be given a miss, which’ll also keep costs in check.

Note, though, that the new MT-15’s engine won’t be getting any major mechanical changes. And finally, all the changes, as they stand, may come at a premium of about Rs 5000 over its current price tag of Rs 1.45 lakh to 1.5 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), which would still keep its VFM prospects intact.