Hero Splendor XTEC: The Hero Splendor has been synonymous with Indian commuting for over three decades, establishing itself as the backbone of affordable, reliable transportation. With the introduction of the Splendor Plus XTEC, Hero MotoCorp has demonstrated that evolution doesn’t require abandoning successful fundamentals. This technology-enhanced variant represents a careful balance between modern connectivity features and the proven reliability that has made the Splendor brand a household name across India.
Design Philosophy: Familiar Yet Forward-Thinking
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC maintains the iconic silhouette that has defined the brand for generations. This deliberate design choice reflects Hero’s understanding that their target audience values familiarity and proven aesthetics over radical transformation. The squared-off headlight remains, but now incorporates LED technology with distinctive H-shaped daytime running lights that provide both improved visibility and contemporary appeal.
The XTEC variant distinguishes itself through subtle yet meaningful upgrades. Chrome-finished elements including the engine guard, tail rack, and heat shield add premium touches without compromising the motorcycle’s approachable character. Black alloy wheels replace the standard steel units, contributing to a more sophisticated appearance while maintaining the practical benefits of lightweight construction.
Technology Integration: Segment-First Digital Experience
Perhaps the most significant advancement in the XTEC variant is the introduction of a fully digital instrument cluster – a segment-first feature that sets the Splendor apart from traditional competitors. This LCD display provides comprehensive information including a digital speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, and real-time mileage indicator. The orange-backlit screen ensures excellent visibility across various lighting conditions.
The standout feature is Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless smartphone integration. Riders can receive call and SMS alerts directly on the instrument cluster, eliminating the need to check their phones while riding. This connectivity feature transforms the commuting experience, allowing users to stay connected without compromising safety or convenience.
Powertrain Excellence: Proven Performance Enhanced
The XTEC continues to utilize the time-tested 97.2cc single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that has powered millions of Splendor motorcycles. This BS6 Phase 2-compliant motor produces 8.02 PS at 8,000 rpm and 8.05 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm. While these figures may appear modest on paper, the engine’s strength lies in its exceptional fuel efficiency and reliability rather than peak performance.
The four-speed manual transmission provides well-spaced gear ratios optimized for urban commuting. The lightweight construction, with a kerb weight of just 112 kg, ensures that the available power feels adequate for city riding conditions. Real-world testing has demonstrated fuel efficiency figures of 83.2 kmpl in city conditions and an impressive 95.8 kmpl on highways, validating the manufacturer’s efficiency claims.
Advanced Features: i3S Technology and LED Lighting
The XTEC variant incorporates Hero’s patented i3S (Idle Stop-Start System) technology, which automatically shuts off the engine during extended idle periods and restarts it when the rider engages the clutch. This feature significantly contributes to fuel savings, particularly in stop-and-go traffic conditions common in Indian cities.
The 2.0 version introduces comprehensive LED lighting, making the Splendor Plus XTEC the only motorcycle in the 100cc segment to feature full-LED headlights. The H-shaped LED DRLs and matching tail light design create a cohesive lighting signature that enhances both visibility and aesthetic appeal. The addition of hazard lights with a dedicated switch further improves safety features.
Comfort and Practicality: Ergonomics for Every Rider
The XTEC maintains the Splendor’s reputation for comfortable ergonomics through an upright riding position that reduces fatigue during long commutes. The seat height of 785mm accommodates riders of various heights, while the narrow profile ensures easy ground reach for shorter riders. The well-cushioned seat provides adequate comfort for both solo and pillion riding.
Suspension components include telescopic front forks and five-step adjustable twin rear springs, providing a balanced combination of comfort and control. The setup effectively absorbs road imperfections while maintaining stability, making the motorcycle suitable for India’s diverse road conditions.
Pricing Strategy: Value-Conscious Positioning
The Hero Splendor Plus XTEC is positioned at Rs 80,750 for the drum brake variant, extending to Rs 86,329 for the disc brake version (ex-showroom prices). This pricing strategy reflects Hero’s commitment to accessibility while incorporating premium features. The XTEC commands a premium over the standard Splendor Plus, justified by the comprehensive technology upgrades and enhanced features.
Despite the price increase, the XTEC remains competitive within the 100cc segment, offering features typically found in higher-displacement motorcycles. The Bluetooth connectivity, digital instrument cluster, and LED lighting package provide significant value proposition for technology-conscious commuters.
Market Impact: Modernizing a Classic
The introduction of the XTEC variant demonstrates Hero’s strategy of progressive enhancement rather than radical reinvention. Sales figures indicate strong market acceptance, with the Splendor range selling 1,85,635 units in April 2025, including the XTEC variant. This performance suggests that the technology additions have successfully attracted both existing Splendor loyalists and new customers seeking modern features.
The XTEC’s success has prompted Hero to expand the technology treatment to other models, including the Super Splendor XTEC with its 125cc engine. This platform approach allows Hero to leverage development costs across multiple models while maintaining distinct positioning for each variant.
Competitive Landscape: Leading Through Innovation
In a segment traditionally focused on basic transportation, the XTEC’s feature set creates meaningful differentiation. Competitors like the TVS Radeon and Bajaj Platina 110 offer similar displacement and fuel efficiency, but lack the comprehensive digital experience and LED lighting package that defines the XTEC variant.
The motorcycle’s unique position as the only 100cc bike with full-LED lighting and comprehensive Bluetooth connectivity creates a competitive moat that is difficult for rivals to match at similar price points. This technological leadership reinforces Hero’s market position while attracting younger riders who prioritize connectivity features.
Hero Splendor XTEC Future Prospects: Evolution Continues
The success of the XTEC variant validates Hero’s approach to modernizing classic models through targeted technology integration. Future updates may include enhanced connectivity features, improved digital displays, and potentially electric variants as the market evolves toward electrification.
The XTEC represents more than a simple feature upgrade – it demonstrates how established manufacturers can successfully bridge traditional reliability with contemporary expectations. For millions of Indian commuters seeking proven transportation with modern conveniences, the Hero Splendor Plus XTEC offers an compelling combination of heritage, technology, and value that maintains the brand’s relevance in an evolving market.