Two-Wheeler Industry in India Improves in Vehicle Appeal but Fuel Efficiency Issues Still Affect Owner Satisfaction, J.D. Power Finds

NEW DELHI: 12 March 2025 — The two-wheeler industry in India continues to make significant strides in enhancing overall owner satisfaction, according to the J.D. Power 2025 India Two-Wheeler APEAL StudySM (2WAPEAL), released today. Almost half (46%) of two-wheeler owners say their level of satisfaction with their vehicle exceeded their initial expectation. This compares very favorably with the 2024 study in which 32% indicated a better-than-expected experience.

Fuel economy-related attributes continue to dominate overall owner satisfaction, as owners view higher efficiency as a means to extend driving range and reduce refueling frequency, enhancing convenience and practicality while reducing overall cost of ownership.

“Fuel efficiency is a critical factor in the Indian automotive market due to rising fuel costs, high daily commute distances and a price-sensitive customer base,” said Pronab Gorai, engagement director at Differential in Singapore. “Additionally, increasing environmental awareness and government regulations promoting fuel-efficient and cleaner vehicles further reinforce the importance of fuel economy.”

Highest-Ranking Models

• Honda Activa ranks highest in the scooter economy segment with a score of 864.
• Suzuki Burgman ranks highest in the scooter executive segment with a score of 873.
• TVS Radeon ranks highest in the motorcycle economy segment with a score of 873.
• Honda Shine 125 ranks highest in the motorcycle executive segment with a score of 871.
• Yamaha MT-15 ranks highest in the motorcycle premium segment with a score of 873.
• TVS iQube/ iQube S ranks highest in the scooter EV segment with a score of 873.

“As competition in the industry intensifies, automakers that effectively align with evolving consumer preferences stand to gain a significant advantage,” said Atsushi Kawahashi, senior director at J.D. Power Japan. “This year’s study underscores the importance of continuous innovation in vehicle design and technology to meet and exceed customer expectations.”

The re-designed study conducted in collaboration with Differential, Singapore, measures owners’ satisfaction with their two-wheelers across various vehicle systems. The study covers 55 individual product level attributes across vehicle systems such as seats; looks and styling; controls, switches and locks; engine and transmission; fuel economy; and ride and handling. For electric two-wheelers, additional categories of connectivity and mobile app; charging and driving range; and pickup and performance are included.

The 2025 India Two-Wheeler APEAL Study is based on responses from 6,503 new two-wheeler owners who purchased their vehicle from May through December 2024. The study was fielded from October 2024 through January 2025. Fieldwork was conducted through face-to-face surveys in 42 major cities in India covering 80 two-wheeler models from 12 makes. Brands included in the study are ranked according to aggregate score out of 1,000 index points, with a higher score indicating better performance.

J.D. Power is a global leader in automotive data and analytics, and provides industry intelligence, consumer insights and advisory solutions to the automotive industry and selected non-automotive industries. J.D. Power leverages its extensive proprietary datasets and software capabilities combined with advanced analytics and artificial intelligence tools to help its clients optimize business performance.

J.D. Power was founded in 1968 and has offices in North America, Europe and Asia Pacific. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit https://japan.jdpower.com/.

Differential is a strategic consulting and research firm specializing in consumer insights, brand strategy, and market intelligence across the Asia-Pacific region. With expertise in data-driven decision-making, the firm helps businesses navigate complex market dynamics by providing deep cultural and behavioral insights. Its services range from qualitative and quantitative research to competitive analysis and trend forecasting, enabling clients to develop effective business strategies and customer engagement plans. Leveraging a strong understanding of regional nuances, Differential supports companies in various industries, including automotive, finance, and technology, to drive growth and innovation. To learn more about the company’s business offerings, visit www.differential.com.sg.

Media Relations Contacts 
Ishika Arora, Differential; Singapore; +65-8428-3005 ishika.arora@differential.com.sg
Geno Effler, J.D. Power; USA; +1-714-621-6224; media.relations@jdpa.com

About J.D. Power and Advertising/Promotional Rules: http://www.jdpower.com/business/about-us/press-release-info