Honda X-ADV Review: The Ultimate Adventure Scooter

The Honda X-ADV is not your everyday scooter. It dares to explore what lies beyond asphalt. With its aggressive ADV-style stance, tall ground clearance, and adventure-ready suspension, the X-ADV is built for those who want the thrill of exploration without compromising comfort. From dense traffic to dirt trails, this machine handles everything with confidence.


Pricing and Strategy

Honda has priced the X-ADV in the premium segment, positioning it as a niche product for urban professionals and adventure seekers. In India, it is expected to launch with an ex-showroom price of around ₹12.5 lakh. In global markets, it retails for approximately €13,000, reflecting its high-end components and dual-purpose capabilities.

This pricing strategy places it against mid-weight adventure bikes rather than conventional scooters, emphasizing Honda’s attempt to create a new category of luxury utility scooters.


Key Specifications

  • Engine: 745cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled
  • Power Output: Approx. 58 hp
  • Torque: 69 Nm
  • Transmission: 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT)
  • Suspension: Upside-down front forks, Pro-Link rear
  • Brakes: Dual front discs with ABS
  • Ground Clearance: 165mm
  • Seat Height: 820mm
  • Fuel Tank: 13.2 litres
  • Kerb Weight: Approx. 236 kg

This set of specifications ensures both high-speed touring and nimble city performance.


Competitors and Market Dynamics

While the Honda X-ADV is a unique product, it loosely competes with models like the BMW C 400 X, Yamaha TMAX, and even entry-level adventure bikes like the KTM 390 Adventure. However, the X-ADV stands apart due to its DCT gearbox, adventure styling, and scooter practicality.

In developing markets like India, its competition is more psychological than mechanical — convincing buyers to pay big for a scooter-style body. Yet, in mature markets, it’s carving a steady niche among adventure riders and tech-savvy commuters.


Fuel Efficiency and Mileage

Despite its adventure-ready powertrain, the Honda X-ADV is surprisingly fuel-efficient. Riders report an average fuel economy of 25-30 km/l under mixed conditions. This balance of power and efficiency is largely due to its intelligent DCT system, which selects gears based on throttle input and terrain.


Comfort and Features

The Honda X-ADV excels in long-distance comfort. The upright seating position, tall windscreen, wide handlebar, and plush suspension make it ideal for long rides. The under-seat storage, keyless ignition, heated grips, and cruise control make daily riding convenient and premium.

Key features include:

  • 5-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity
  • Riding modes (Standard, Sport, Rain, Gravel)
  • Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC)
  • USB charging port
  • LED lighting throughout

New Features and Updates

The latest X-ADV comes with refinements that improve both performance and rider interface. A lighter frame, updated ECU for quicker throttle response, refined DCT mapping, and a new TFT dash with Honda RoadSync integration bring it in line with the latest tech trends.


A Look Back Legacy

Launched in 2016, the X-ADV was initially seen as an oddity. A scooter with off-road capability? But it steadily built a cult following in Europe and Japan. Honda’s gamble to create a segment-blurring machine paid off. The 2021 refresh brought sharper styling and better electronics, solidifying its identity as the go-anywhere scooter.


Design and Styling Evolution

The X-ADV’s styling cues come from Honda’s Africa Twin lineage. The tall windscreen, sharp LED headlamps, and angular panels make it look muscular and ready for action. Recent models feature sportier graphics, sharper angles, and new color schemes like Graphite Black and Pearl Deep Mud Grey — reinforcing its premium adventure image.


Engine and Performance

The 745cc parallel-twin engine isn’t just powerful; it’s smooth and tractable. With 58 horsepower and a broad torque curve, it handles everything from quick overtakes to steep inclines. The DCT gearbox allows both automatic and manual control, giving the rider flexibility based on preference and terrain.

In Sport mode, the X-ADV becomes surprisingly aggressive, while Rain mode offers a relaxed throttle response for tricky conditions. The dual-purpose tyres and long-travel suspension complement the powertrain on uneven surfaces.


Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Approach

Honda has tuned the X-ADV for Euro 5 compliance, ensuring low emissions and better fuel burn. The engine uses friction-reducing technologies and optimized combustion to reduce its carbon footprint. While not electric, it aligns with modern environmental norms and paves the way for future hybrid or electric variants.


Launch Timeline and Market Impact

The Honda X-ADV is already available in many international markets. An India launch is speculated by late 2025 or early 2026, depending on emission and homologation clearances. If priced right, it could spark a new lifestyle segment combining luxury scooters and ADV bikes — much like how SUVs redefined cars.

In Europe, the X-ADV is among Honda’s top-selling scooters, which showcases its strong market impact.


Key Reasons to Choose the Honda X-ADV

  • Blends scooter comfort with adventure capability
  • Powerful 745cc engine with smooth DCT
  • Loaded with smart features and connectivity
  • Suitable for both city riding and weekend touring
  • Unique styling stands out on the road
  • Excellent build quality and reliability from Honda
  • Offers practicality without sacrificing excitement

Conclusion of Honda X-ADV

The Honda X-ADV review makes one thing clear: it’s not just a scooter, and it’s more than a motorcycle. It’s a future-forward machine that dares to do what few two-wheelers can — master every type of road with equal grace. Whether you’re navigating city congestion or exploring backcountry trails, the X-ADV delivers a unique, thrilling, and refined riding experience.

For riders looking to break the mold, invest in versatility, and ride something truly different, the Honda X-ADV is the ultimate answer. It’s a bold choice — but one that rewards you every time you twist the throttle.

Sumon Das

Sumon Das

I'm a dedicated automobile content writer with a passion for cars, bikes, and everything in between. I specialize in creating engaging, SEO-optimized articles that cover the latest automotive news, in-depth vehicle reviews, comparisons, maintenance tips, and emerging trends in the auto industry.

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