Honda DIO

Despite it existing in its current form for a long time globally, and even being replaced in some of the other global markets, this particular version of the Honda Dio still manages to look fresh and eye-catching, thanks to its edgy design language and vibrant colours and graphics. 

The sharp-looking scooter front apron of the Honda Dio has a large arrowhead-shaped LED headlamp in its lower half. This all-LED headlamp is complemented with wedge-shaped clear lens turn indicators attached to it on its upper edges. This front apron has Z-shaped side panels flowing down towards the floorboard, while the handlebar cowl of the Honda Dio accommodates a sleek looking LED positioning light.

The Honda Dio looks sharp even when viewed sideways, with the floorboard of the scooter being large enough to accommodate taller riders with ease. Like the front, the side profile of the Honda Dio is also characterized by edgy panels, while also getting vibrant graphics. The wheels and exhaust pipe are also finished in a blacked-out theme to accentuate its sporty design. 

The back portion of the apron of the Honda Dio does get usable and practical features like a small bottle holder and a multi-functional ignition keyhole. For added practicality, the Honda Dio comes with a long and wide seat, with the scooter having split pillion grab rails for the pillion rider. The under-seat storage compartment is decent, but given the modern standards, it could have been more capacious.  

The Honda Dio looks sporty at the rear too, and while it misses out on LED elements for the tail lamp, the large and sharp-looking design of the halogen tail lamps matches the vibrant design of the overall scooter. The Honda Dio also gets an all-LCD instrument console, which has basics like speedometer, odometer, trip meters and a fuel gauge, along with the essential warning lights. Despite its entry-level positioning, the overall build quality and fit and finish levels of this Honda scooter are impressive.

Unlike the new-generation Honda Dio launched in other key markets, the Philippines-spec Honda Dio continues to have the previous generation’s hardware. The scooter comes with 10-inch steel wheels as standard, which are wrapped with 90/100-10 tubeless tyres at both ends.

It also gets the older-generation trailing like suspension at the front and a single-sided three-step adjustable hydraulic coil spring at the back, along with 110mm drum brakes as standard fore both the wheels. This setup doesn’t feel as plush and sophisticated as the modern telescopic fork, which is also reflected in the not-so-plush ride.

The Honda Dio is powered by a tried and tested four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled, 109.5cc engine, which is one of the most refined and fuel-efficient 110cc engines Honda has developed for entry-level scooters for the Asian markets. With this engine, the Honda Dio claims a maximum power output of 7.9 PS and a maximum torque output of 8.9 Nm, along with a fuel efficiency of 58.3 kmpl. 

While there are no ABS or riding modes in the Honda Dio, it does get the convenience and safety of a combined braking system, lockable ignition keyhole, and rear parking brake.

The Honda Dio on sale in the Philippines might not be the most updated version of the scooter, as it is available in other markets with more advanced features and hardware. However, for its price, it still feels relevant with a design that still looks relevant and snazzy enough, coupled with a couple of modern features and an engine that is highly reliable and fuel efficient.