2015 Honda PCX150 Announced for US

American Honda announced it will bring the updated PCX150 scooter to the U.S. as a 2015 model. Revealed earlier this year for the European market, the 2015 PCX150 receives a larger fuel tank, improved fuel economy and a new look.

The engine is still a 153cc liquid-cooled Single like the 2013 model (reviewed here), that makes it freeway-legal in several states. For 2015, the engine received updates to reduce internal friction and thus improve fuel economy. American Honda did not provide any fuel economy figures but the European model claims about 103.5 mpg.

The fuel tank now holds 2.1 gallons compared to 1.56 gallons on the 2013 model, which should translate to a range of about 217 miles on a single refill. Unlike the European version, the U.S. model does not offer Honda’s Idling Stop technology that helps save on fuel by cutting the engine after three seconds at idle before starting again at the twist of the throttle.

The bodywork has been refined with a sportier look, while the new headlights, taillights and turn signals are all LEDs and integrated into the bodywork so there are no more spindly lighting stalks sticking out the sides. The 2015 PCX150 also gets a new hazard warning light.

The seat, revised for improved rider and passenger comfort. The seat opens via a new spring-loaded hinge to reveal a storage area Honda says can hold a full-face helmet. Additional storage for smaller items is available under the dashboard.

The suspension has been revised, with the 31mm front fork now offering 3.9 inches of travel compared to 3.1 inches on the 2013 model. The twin-shock rear suspension now offers 3.0 inches of travel, down slightly from 3.1 inches. The PCX150 is equipped with Honda’s combined braking system, with a single 220mm disc with three-piston caliper up front and a drum brake at the rear.

Other highlights include a 12V power socket for accessories, updated instruments with analog tachometer and digital display, and both a sidestand and center stand.

The 2015 Honda PCX150 will be offered in Metallic Black or Pearl White. Honda is pricing the PCX150 at $3,449, maintaining the same price as the 2013 model. Expect to see it in showrooms in July.

[Source: Honda]

By Dennis Chung