Honda Unveils Game-Changing Scooter: Is the PCX’s Reign Over?

When it comes to Honda’s premium scooter lineup, most consumers immediately think of the PCX160, a globally renowned model celebrated for its modern design, smooth performance, and the enduring reliability synonymous with the Japanese brand.

However, the introduction of the Sundiro Honda NS150XC, a brand-new adventure scooter developed specifically for the Asian market, has sparked a fresh debate: “Should you still choose the PCX when the NS150XC is now available?”

Unlike models that merely rebrand to create a sense of novelty, the NS150XC is an independently developed product by Sundiro Honda—a joint venture between Honda Japan and a Chinese partner—tailored to the real-world usage habits of urban Asian consumers.

While the PCX160 caters to office workers seeking elegance and sophistication, the NS150XC embodies the spirit of an “urban ADV”—dynamic, robust, and adaptable to various terrains.

One of the most noticeable features is its significantly higher ground clearance, paired with semi-terrain tires and long-travel suspension, allowing riders to effortlessly navigate rough roads or potholes—a task the PCX160 wasn’t designed for.

The upside-down front forks and front-rear guards not only give the NS150XC a sportier appearance but also embody the true essence of an “adventure scooter” that Honda aims to deliver.

With a reasonable seat height, wide handlebars, and a comfortable riding posture, the NS150XC instills confidence, even on weekend long rides. If the PCX160 is the choice for a smooth urban commute, the NS150XC is the companion ready to venture beyond the city limits for a breath of fresh suburban air.

Priced at approximately 21,280 RMB (around 78.8 million VND) for the NS150XC PRO, some might assume it’s a more “budget-friendly” option than the PCX. However, in terms of features, the NS150XC actually surpasses its global counterpart.

Right from the standard version, it comes equipped with Bosch dual-channel ABS, TCS traction control, and notably, cornering ABS—an extremely rare feature in the entry-level scooter segment. In contrast, the PCX160 only offers front-wheel ABS, giving the NS150XC a clear safety advantage.

The PRO version of the NS150XC also comes pre-equipped with guards, rear racks, and a dashcam—accessories that PCX users would need to spend an additional 3-5 million VND to install. Additionally, it features a digital display, smart key, USB charging port, and various daily convenience features.

When considering the total value, the NS150XC offers more features than the PCX160, with a price difference of only about 1,000-2,000 RMB in the Chinese market—a negligible amount when you gain a superior safety braking system and more versatile performance.

Although the PCX160 uses the renowned 157cc eSP+ engine with an impressive maximum power of 11.8 kW and torque of 14.7 Nm, the Honda NS150XC, with its 149cc SH-EH PGM-FI electronic fuel injection engine, delivers nearly equivalent performance: 11.4 kW and 14.0 Nm. In real-world usage, this difference is hardly noticeable, especially since the NS150XC is lighter and has a transmission ratio optimized for urban environments.

Moreover, the NS150XC’s engine is rated as quieter and more fuel-efficient, thanks to the combination of PGM-FI technology and an automatic start-stop system. Fuel consumption is only about 1.8 L/100 km, significantly lower than many competitors in the same cylinder class.

Returning to the Vietnamese market, where consumers increasingly favor premium, versatile, and fuel-efficient scooters, the Honda NS150XC could become a “fresh breeze” in the 150cc segment, where the PCX160, Air Blade 160, and Yamaha NVX currently dominate.

Compared to the PCX160 (priced above 90 million VND in Vietnam), if the NS150XC is imported or assembled domestically with a price range of 75-80 million VND, this model would become an extremely attractive option. It targets young, adventurous, tech-loving customers who need a flexible vehicle for both urban commuting and light weekend touring—something the PCX has never achieved.

Furthermore, the combination of sporty design, rich features, and advanced safety braking systems positions the NS150XC as a “direct competitor” to the Yamaha NVX, known for its rugged appearance and powerful engine. However, the NS150XC has the advantage of convenience, smoothness, and fuel efficiency—factors highly valued by Vietnamese consumers.

The Sundiro Honda NS150XC is not just a new scooter model but also a testament to Honda’s strategic shift in Asia, moving toward smarter, more versatile, and flexible scooters. With its robust configuration, top-tier safety features, and high practical value, the NS150XC is truly a “challenger to the throne” of the PCX160.

If Honda Vietnam introduces this model in the future, the NS150XC could be the most value-for-money Honda scooter Vietnamese consumers have been waiting for.