New Delhi: The legend is reborn, and this time, it’s digital. Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India (HMSI) has officially launched the 2025 edition of its iconic workhorse, the Honda Unicorn. For decades, the Unicorn has been the undisputed choice for discerning Indian commuters who value reliability and comfort above all else. Now, Honda has given its evergreen champion a much-needed modern makeover, equipping it with a host of new features, including a full-digital instrument cluster and an LED headlamp. Priced at an aggressive ₹1.34 lakh (ex-showroom), the new Unicorn aims to blend its legendary refinement with modern technology. But in a market now dominated by feature-packed rivals like the Bajaj Pulsar 150 and the TVS Apache RTR 160, has Honda done enough to reclaim its throne in the premium commuter segment?
Key Features at a Glance
| Specification | 2025 Honda Unicorn |
| Engine | 163cc, Single-Cylinder, 4-Valve, OBD2-Compliant |
| Max Power | 13 BHP |
| Max Torque | 14.6 Nm |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 60 kmpl |
| Key New Feature | Full-Digital Instrument Cluster & LED Headlamp |
| Ex-Showroom Price | Starting from ₹1.34 Lakh |
Price Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Pay
Honda has announced a pan-India ex-showroom price of ₹1.34 lakh for the 2025 Unicorn. This aggressive pricing strategy places it right in the heart of the competition. However, the final price you pay will be the on-road price, which includes RTO charges, insurance, and other miscellaneous costs.
Here’s our expert estimate of the on-road prices for the new Honda Unicorn in major Indian cities:
- Delhi: ₹1,55,000 – ₹1,62,000
- Mumbai: ₹1,58,000 – ₹1,65,000
- Bengaluru: ₹1,62,000 – ₹1,70,000
- Chennai: ₹1,56,000 – ₹1,63,000
(Note: These are estimated on-road prices and may vary depending on the dealer, state-specific taxes, and insurance choices.)
2025 Honda Unicorn vs. Its Biggest Rivals
The 150-160cc segment is one of the most hotly contested in the Indian two-wheeler market. The new Unicorn faces stiff competition from two legendary nameplates that have defined sport-commuting for a generation.
| Feature | 2025 Honda Unicorn | Bajaj Pulsar 150 | TVS Apache RTR 160 4V |
| Price (Ex-Showroom) | From ₹1.34 Lakh | From ₹1.17 Lakh | From ₹1.25 Lakh |
| Engine (CC) | 163cc | 149.5cc | 159.7cc |
| Power (BHP) | 13 BHP | 13.8 BHP | 17.31 BHP |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 60 kmpl | ~48 kmpl | ~45 kmpl |
| Key Feature/Weakness | Feature: Unmatched refinement & mileage. Weakness: Conservative performance. | Feature: Muscular design & strong brand recall. Weakness: Feels dated, less refined engine. | Feature: Class-leading performance & features. Weakness: More aggressive riding posture. |
Our Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The 2025 Honda Unicorn is a masterful evolution of a legendary formula. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel; instead, it perfects it by adding the modern features that today’s buyers demand.
The 2025 Honda Unicorn is the perfect motorcycle for you if: You are a mature commuter who prioritizes a smooth, comfortable, and utterly reliable riding experience. It’s for the individual who values peace of mind and low running costs over aggressive styling and outright performance. The new digital console and LED headlamp add a touch of modernity to its classic appeal, while the 60 kmpl mileage makes it one of the most economical choices in its class. It is, without a doubt, the ideal choice for office-goers, small business owners, and anyone looking for a no-nonsense, dependable daily companion that will last for years.
While the Bajaj Pulsar 150 will continue to attract buyers with its sporty image and the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V will remain the top choice for performance enthusiasts, the new Unicorn solidifies its position as the undisputed king of comfort and refinement in the 160cc segment. It’s a smart, sensible, and now, a stylish choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the new 2025 Honda Unicorn more powerful than the old model?
Yes, the 2025 Unicorn features a 163cc engine that produces slightly more power (13 BHP) and torque (14.6 Nm) than the previous 162.7cc model, offering better pickup and city performance.
How does the new digital instrument cluster compare to the competition?
The Unicorn’s new full-digital cluster is a significant upgrade, offering features like a mileage indicator and maintenance reminders. While the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V also has a feature-rich digital display with Bluetooth connectivity on its top variants, the Unicorn’s new console brings it on par with modern standards, a huge leap from its previous analog setup.
Is the Honda Unicorn a good bike for long rides?
Absolutely. The Unicorn has always been praised for its comfortable, upright riding posture and its well-cushioned seat. The monoshock rear suspension provides excellent ride quality, making it one of the most comfortable bikes in its class for both city commutes and occasional highway touring.
Why should I choose the Unicorn over the Bajaj Pulsar 150?
While the Pulsar 150 offers a more aggressive design, the Honda Unicorn provides a significantly smoother and more refined engine, better mileage, and superior long-term reliability. If comfort and a hassle-free ownership experience are your priorities, the Unicorn is the clear winner.
