If you already own a 125cc scooter and are looking to upgrade, or simply want something quicker than most scooters on Indian roads, your shortlist would probably include the Yamaha Aerox 155, Hero Xoom 160 and Aprilia SR 175. TVS has now entered this space with the Ntorq 150 – a scooter that builds on the popularity of the Ntorq 125 while promising more performance without compromising everyday usability. While we had a brief taste of it earlier on TVS’ test track, this review is based on our first proper real-world experience, and that’s where the Ntorq 150’s character truly comes through.
Ntorq 150 Ride and comfort
One of the biggest talking points about the Ntorq 150 is its wheel size. Unlike its sporty rivals that run on 14-inch wheels, the Ntorq sticks to 12-inch wheels. On paper, this may seem like a disadvantage, but in practice, it helps the scooter straddle a middle ground between sportiness and comfort.
Sporty scooters are often associated with stiff suspension setups that compromise day-to-day ride quality, but the Ntorq takes a different approach. Its suspension isn’t plush, yet it doesn’t crash or thud over broken roads either. There’s enough compliance to make it far easier to live with on a daily basis than most of its firmer rivals.
The seat is another strong point. It’s wide, well cushioned, and easily accommodates larger riders without feeling cramped. Even with a pillion onboard, comfort levels remain largely unchanged, making the Ntorq a viable option for regular two-up use.
At speed, the Ntorq feels stable up to around 80-85kph. Push closer to its top speed (around 109kph on the speedo), and bumps can momentarily unsettle the scooter. This is where the larger 14-inch wheels of its rivals offer a clear advantage.
Ntorq 150 Engine, performance and braking - 9
The Ntorq 150’s engine is based on the familiar 125cc platform but gets major internal rework to achieve this larger displacement. It produces around 13hp and over 14Nm of torque, and also gets TVS’ iGo assist, which contributes 0.7Nm of torque. In everyday riding, this assist is mild but noticeable, especially during quick overtakes.
Engine Displacement 149.7 cc | Max Engine Power 13 bhp | Max Engine Torque 14.2 Nm |
Talking about quick overtakes, there are two riding modes on offer – Street and Race. Street mode gives you similar performance to the Ntorq 125, while Race makes the scooter feel more energetic and exciting. Switching modes is quick, and Race mode sharpens throttle response and power delivery enough for you to feel the change straight away.
Braking is another area where the Ntorq 150 impresses. During our time with it, we couldn’t get the single-channel ABS to intervene aggressively, which speaks volumes about the braking setup and tyre grip. However, when cornering harder, you’re reminded of the 12-inch wheels. While the scooter remains predictable, you do miss the planted feel that larger wheels offer when leaned over. Even so, the Ntorq handles very much like the 125, which was always one of the more engaging scooters to ride.
In outright performance terms, the Ntorq 150 outperforms its air-cooled rival, the Aprilia SR 175. It is over a second quicker in the 0-80kph sprint and also stops in a shorter distance.
Fuel efficiency is another pleasant surprise. When ridden gently in the city and kept below 70kph on the highway, the Ntorq returned respectable efficiency figures. Ride it aggressively, and the numbers do drop quite dramatically, but when ridden calmly, it proves to be more efficient than the Aprilia – an important consideration for daily use.
Ntorq 150 Features and practicality
The Ntorq’s front-end design remains polarising. The quad-LED headlight setup may look Transformer-like, but there’s no denying its effectiveness. It’s among the best headlights you’ll find on an Indian scooter.
The TFT display, borrowed from the Apache RTR 310, adds a premium touch. The graphics are sharp and legible, but it misses out on useful details such as range and fuel economy readouts.
Wheelbase 1285 mm | Ground Clearance 155 mm | Seat height 770 mm |
Practicality is a mixed bag. The 22-litre underseat storage can only accommodate a half-face helmet, and the front cubby is angled, making it less than ideal for storing a phone. TVS has clearly aimed the Ntorq 150 at a younger audience, and the loud colour palette reflects that. A few more subtle options could help broaden its appeal.
Ntorq 150 Price and Verdict
The TVS Ntorq 150 makes a strong case for itself. Priced from Rs 1.09 lakh, it is easily the most affordable scooter in its class, undercutting rivals by a noticeable margin. The top variant costs around Rs 10,000 more and adds the TFT screen, but even the base version offers a generous features list.
With its blend of performance, comfort, everyday usability and value for money, the Ntorq 150 stands out as a compelling option in the sporty 150cc scooter segment. For many buyers, it could even be the only scooter they need.
Rishaad Mody
Azaman Chothia
Autocar India News Desk
