The Hero Splendor 2025 lineup, updated in April 2025, continues to dominate India’s commuter motorcycle segment with its blend of reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. Comprising the Splendor Plus, Splendor Plus Xtec, Splendor Plus Xtec 2.0, and Super Splendor Xtec, it caters to budget-conscious commuters, students, and rural riders. With OBD2B compliance, new features, and refreshed styling, it competes with the Honda Shine 100, TVS Sport, and Bajaj Platina 100. Here’s a detailed review of its price, specifications, features, and performance in India as of August 30, 2025.
Timeless Design with Modern Touches
The Hero Splendor 2025 retains its iconic, no-nonsense design, instantly recognizable with a boxy headlamp, flat seat, and minimalist commuter silhouette. Available in multiple colors across variants:
- Splendor Plus: Force Silver, Black Grey Stripe, Black and Accent, Sports Red Black, Blue Black, Black Red Purple, Matt Grey [Web:3,8,19].
- Splendor Plus Xtec/Xtec 2.0: Nobel Red, Matte Grey, Black Heavy Grey, Red Black, Black Tornado Grey, Black Sparkling Blue, Pearl Fadeless White (Xtec 2.0 drum only) [Web:1,7].
- Super Splendor Xtec: Matt Nexus Blue, Matt Grey, Black, Candy Blazing Red [Web:21].
Measuring approximately 2000mm long, 720mm wide, 1052mm tall, with a 1236mm wheelbase, it has a 165mm ground clearance and weighs 110-122 kg (kerb, depending on variant). The 9.8L fuel tank (12L for Super Splendor) supports a range of ~600-750 km. The single-piece seat (792mm height) ensures comfort for short commutes, with a pillion grab rail for practicality.
The Splendor Plus Xtec/Xtec 2.0 introduces modern touches like LED headlamps, LED DRLs, and a fully digital instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity for call/SMS alerts and mileage tracking [Web:5,7]. The Super Splendor Xtec adds a USB charging port and side-stand engine cut-off, while the base Splendor Plus retains a twin-pod analog console for simplicity [Web:3,8]. However, the plastic-heavy build feels dated to some users, and the Xtec’s digital display may lag in responsiveness [Web:8,16].
Efficient and Reliable Performance
The Splendor 2025 lineup offers two engine options, both BS6 Phase 2B-compliant with XSens technology for optimized air-fuel ratio:
- Splendor Plus/Xtec/Xtec 2.0: 97.2cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, 7.91 bhp at 8,000 rpm, 8.05 Nm at 6,000 rpm, 4-speed gearbox, ~60-73 kmpl (ARAI: 73 kmpl for Xtec) [Web:1,3,5,7,8].
- Super Splendor Xtec: 124.7cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled, 10.7 bhp at 7,500 rpm, 10.6 Nm at 6,000 rpm, 5-speed gearbox, ~60-69 kmpl (ARAI: 69 kmpl) [Web:6,21].
The 97.2cc engine excels in city commuting with smooth low-end torque, while the 124.7cc unit offers better highway cruising. Real-world mileage varies: 60-65 kmpl for Splendor Plus/Xtec in urban conditions, 65-70 kmpl on highways, and 55-60 kmpl for Super Splendor Xtec [Web:1,8,21]. At ₹100/litre, running costs are ~₹1.4-1.7/km, among the lowest in the segment. The i3S idle stop-start system (select variants) enhances efficiency by reducing fuel wastage in traffic [Web:2,19].
However, the 4-speed gearbox on the 97.2cc models feels limiting on highways, and the Super Splendor’s 5-speed unit can be notchy in heavy traffic [Web:8,21]. Some users report minor vibrations above 60 km/h on the Splendor Plus [Web:16].
Stable Handling and Safety
Built on a tubular double-cradle frame, the Splendor 2025 offers stable handling for city and rural roads. Telescopic front forks and 5-step adjustable rear shock absorbers ensure a comfortable ride, though the firm suspension may feel jarring on potholes [Web:3,8]. Braking options include:
- Splendor Plus/Xtec: 130mm drum brakes (front/rear), with a 240mm front disc option on Xtec [Web:1,7].
- Super Splendor Xtec: 130mm drum (base), 240mm front disc (premium), with Combined Braking System (CBS) [Web:21].
The 18-inch alloy wheels with tubeless tires (80/100 section) provide decent grip, and the Integrated Braking System (IBS) enhances safety [Web:8,19]. The Xtec 2.0 offers a disc brake variant for improved stopping power [Web:7]. However, low ground clearance (165mm) may scrape on speed bumps, and the absence of ABS is a drawback compared to premium rivals [Web:22].
Modern Features
The Splendor 2025 lineup balances simplicity with modern upgrades:
- Splendor Plus: Twin-pod analog console, halogen headlamp, i3S (select variants), kick/self-start [Web:3,8].
- Splendor Plus Xtec/Xtec 2.0: Fully digital console, Bluetooth, LED headlamp/DRLs, USB port, hazard switch, side-stand cut-off [Web:5,7].
- Super Splendor Xtec: Digital console with SMS/call alerts, LED headlamp, USB charging, i3S, side-stand cut-off [Web:21].
The Xtec models stand out with tech like real-time mileage indicators and missed call alerts, but the base Splendor Plus lacks these, appealing to buyers prioritizing affordability [Web:3,5]. Some users report Bluetooth connectivity issues on Xtec models [Web:7].
Pricing and Availability
The Hero Splendor 2025 lineup is priced as follows (ex-showroom, Delhi):
- Splendor Plus: ₹79,121-₹80,676 [Web:3,8,22]
- Splendor Plus Xtec: ₹83,029-₹86,551 (Drum: ₹83,251; Disc: ₹86,551) [Web:1,7]
- Splendor Plus Xtec 2.0: ₹86,001 (Drum only) [Web:7]
- Super Splendor Xtec: ₹87,878-₹91,857 (Drum: ₹87,878; Disc: ₹91,857) [Web:21]
On-road prices in Delhi range from ₹94,242-₹1.04 lakh, including RTO and insurance [Web:8,21]. Available at Hero MotoCorp dealerships, Amazon India, Flipkart, and Bajaj Finserv outlets, offers include no-cost EMI, ₹5,000-10,000 exchange bonuses, and festive cashback (e.g., ₹2,000 on select cards) [Web:2,13,19]. Maintenance costs are low, averaging ₹1,500-3,000 annually, with Hero’s 6,000+ service centers ensuring accessibility. Delivery times are same-day to 15 days, with no waiting period for Splendor Plus in most cities [Web:3].
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Users praise the Splendor 2025 for its exceptional mileage, low maintenance, and reliability, with many calling it a “trusted companion” for daily commutes and rural use [Web:7,16]. The Xtec models are appreciated for their modern features, but drawbacks include dated styling, firm suspension, and limited power for highway riding [Web:3,16]. Some X users report engine stalling in traffic and average build quality (e.g., loose bolts) [Web:22]. The Super Splendor Xtec is lauded for food delivery use, with monthly earnings of ~₹30,000 and low upkeep [Web:21].
Comparison with Competitors
The Splendor 2025 competes with:
- Honda Shine 100 (₹84,876, 99cc, 60 kmpl, 112 kg): More refined but pricier with lower mileage [Web:1].
- Bajaj Platina 100 (₹68,000, 102cc, 70 kmpl): Cheaper, similar mileage, but lacks tech [Web:22].
- TVS Sport (₹70,000, 109.7cc, 70 kmpl): Sportier, but less feature-rich than Xtec models [Web:22].
The Splendor’s fuel efficiency, service network, and modern Xtec features give it an edge, but its basic design and no ABS lag behind premium rivals like the Honda SP125 [Web:23].
Final Thoughts
The Hero Splendor 2025 lineup remains India’s go-to commuter motorcycle, with the Splendor Plus offering unmatched affordability, the Xtec/Xtec 2.0 adding modern tech, and the Super Splendor Xtec delivering extra power. Its legendary mileage (60-73 kmpl), low running costs, and extensive service network make it ideal for students, delivery riders, and rural commuters. However, dated styling, firm ride, and limited highway performance may deter buyers seeking premium features. With 2,34,227 units sold in July 2025 [Web:3], it continues to rule the 100-125cc segment.
Leave a Reply