2018 Hero Passion Pro, Passion XPro launched in India

Hero MotoCorp revamped a chunk of its commuter motorcycle portfolio by launching the new Passion Pro and Passion XPro in India. The 2018 Hero Passion Pro has been priced at Rs 53,189, while the Passion XPro will retail for Rs 54,189 (both prices are ex-showroom, Delhi). The two new motorcycles will play an important role in maintaining Hero’s domination in the 100-110cc segment where it commands over 75 percent of the market share. Talking about competition, the new Hero Passion duo will rival the likes of the TVS Victor, Honda Dream series and the recently launched Bajaj Discover 110.

While the Hero Splendor has always been the best-selling commuter motorcycle for Hero, the Passion has also done a commendable job with sales of over 15.7 million units. The Hero Passion has always been a more stylish alternative to the Hero Splendor, and this theme is continued in the new motorcycle too. It also features a digital-analogue instrument console as opposed to the analogue unit as seen on its predecessor, along with side stand indicator.

Gone is the ‘sloper’ 97cc motor as seen on the older bike, as the new Passion Pro now features a 109cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine – sourced from the new Splendor iSmart 110 – that generates 9.3hp and 9Nm of torque. The new 110cc bike has been equipped with Hero’s i3S (Idle-Stop-Start System) tech which helps in increasing the fuel efficiency of the motorcycle. It’s available in five colour schemes – sports red, black monotone, force silver, heavy grey metallic and frost blue metallic. The new Passion Pro is available in two variants – drum brakes on both ends or with an optional disc brake at front. 

The Hero Passion XPro isn’t a new name in the company’s portfolio as it had first debuted in 2012, but it never managed to achieve the sales success of its siblings. Hero discontinued the motorcycle because it was powered by a Honda-sourced 110cc engine from the Dream series. The 2018 Hero Passion XPro is based on the new Passion Pro but gets sharper and sportier styling, including a LED tail-light. Other details like the frame, brakes, suspension and engine have been shared with the new Passion Pro.