The Honda ADV160, which was revealed as part of a ten-model showcase by the company in July, has encountered delivery delays. Initially, Honda announced pre-bookings for the ADV160 alongside the Rebel 300, with expected deliveries set for October this year. However, the timeline has recently been pushed back to 2027.
This postponement seems to stem from challenges related to local manufacturing and scaling production capacity. The ADV160 is set to be sold through Honda BigWing and RedWing dealerships, which may help address availability issues, but the delay is nonetheless disappointing.
Background on the ADV160
As one of six new models introduced in the Indian market, the ADV160 boasts features that position it favorably against competitors like the Yamaha Aerox 155 and Hero Xoom 160. While Honda has not officially cited production issues as the cause for the delay, the complexities of localizing manufacturing for all ten new models are likely contributing factors.
Honda’s commitment to manufacturing these vehicles domestically adds a layer of difficulty, particularly for a company of its scale. The ADV160 marks Honda’s entry into a segment of scooters in India, and its specifications suggest it is well-equipped to compete against its rivals.
Availability and Future Prospects
One advantage the ADV160 has over its competitors is its broader dealership network. Unlike Yamaha, which sells the Aerox exclusively through its limited Blue Square dealerships, or Hero, which restricts the Xoom 160 to a select number of Premia dealerships, Honda’s distribution through both BigWing and RedWing expands its reach.
Despite the delay, pre-bookings for the ADV160 remain open at an initial deposit of Rs 5,000. Honda’s official communication indicates that deliveries are now expected to begin in January 2027, following the new year. Meanwhile, the Rebel 300 is still on track for a delivery timeline aimed at the third quarter of 2026, which provides some optimism for potential customers.
