Honda Aviator


The Honda Aviator was a motor scooter produced by Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India from 2008 to 2020. HMSI positioned the Aviator as a more premium offering in the 110 cc scooter segment, with variant-dependent equipment such as a front disc brake and a larger front wheel on select trims.

Overview

The Aviator used a four-stroke, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine paired with Honda's V-Matic automatic transmission. HMSI marketed the model with the slogan "Live Your Style".

Launch and positioning

When launched, reports highlighted variant-dependent features such as a 190 mm front disc brake and a 12-inch front alloy wheel, which HMSI claimed improved stability and braking performance.

Variants

BikeWale described the Aviator as being sold in multiple trims, including versions with steel wheels and drum brakes, alloy wheels, and a higher variant featuring a front disc brake with alloy wheels; BikeWale also noted combined braking as standard on later listings of the model.

Updates

In 2009, HMSI publicised updates to the Aviator including a combined braking system and BS-III readiness ahead of wider emissions implementation.
In July 2018, HMSI launched an updated Aviator featuring an LED headlamp and position lamp, along with a revised instrument console and other feature additions such as a 4-in-1 lock with seat opener switch.

Reception

Autocar India noted that the Aviator was intended to sit above entry-level offerings in Honda's scooter portfolio, but it remained overshadowed by higher-volume models in the market; Autocar reported in 2020 that Honda would replace the Aviator with a new product as part of its portfolio changes during the BS6 transition.

Awards and recognition

At the NDTV Profit Car and Bike Awards 2009, the Honda Aviator won Scooter of the Year.

Discontinuation

During the industry's transition to BS6 emission norms in 2020, the Aviator was removed from HMSI's official website along with other models that had not yet received BS6 updates, according to multiple publications. Team-BHP reported that the Aviator was no longer listed on the official website at the time, and linked this to the BS6 transition, with media reports indicating discontinuation of the model.

Timeline

  • March 2008 – HMSI launched the Aviator in India in Standard and Deluxe variants, positioned as a premium 110 cc automatic scooter.
  • October 2009 – HMSI unveiled the “New Aviator” with feature/variant updates and BS-III readiness.
  • July 2018 – HMSI launched the 2018 Aviator update, adding an LED headlamp/position lamp and convenience features such as a 4-in-1 lock with seat opener switch.
  • April 2020 – During the BS6 transition, the Aviator was removed from HMSI’s India website in industry reporting; Autocar India later reported Honda would discontinue the Aviator and replace it with a new premium 110 cc product.