Yamaha’s Malaysian distributor Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) introduced the third-generation Yamaha NVX 2025 back in July, offered in two variants: ABS and SP (Sport Performance).
A few months after the launch, I had the opportunity to ride the Yamaha NVX SP over several days — and this time, the main focus was testing the all-new Y-Shift feature, which in overseas markets is sold under the name ‘NVX Turbo’.
What Exactly Makes the Yamaha NVX SP Special?
The SP variant is priced at RM14,498 (excluding insurance). Is that steep for a 155cc scooter? We’ll get to that. First, let’s talk about what it’s actually like to ride.
Before we get into the riding experience, here’s a quick rundown of the specs:
Engine and Performance
- 155cc 4-stroke 4-valve Blue Core SOHC, liquid-cooled
- Power output of 15.4hp @ 8,000rpm, with 14.2Nm of torque @ 6,500rpm
- V-Matic ECVT transmission (SP)
- VVA variable valve system for more consistent throttle response across the rev range
Riding Modes
- Town Mode (T) — Smooth and fuel-efficient for daily commuting
- Sport Mode (S) — Sharper, more eager throttle response
- Y-Shift Turbo — Three-stage acceleration and deceleration that mimics the feel of a quickshifter on a sportbike
Modern Features
- The Y-Connect app provides:
- Phone notifications
- Google Maps navigation (exclusive to the SP)
- Fuel consumption and trip data
- Service reminders
- The SP gets a TFT instrument panel with three selectable themes
Test 1: City Riding Around KLCC and Jalan Ampang
In city traffic, the Yamaha NVX is genuinely your best mate if you’re the type who can’t stand working a clutch every two minutes. The bodywork is wide and chunky, but honestly, filtering through traffic isn’t as tricky as you’d expect.
At 170cm tall, I had to tiptoe slightly at stops — pretty normal for an NVX. But once rolling, this adventure scooter felt planted and composed, with no fuss at all.
How Did It Feel?
- Suspension is on the firm side — hitting potholes gave a noticeable thud that you feel through the seat, even with the thick padding
- Brake levers have a natural, progressive bite — two fingers are more than enough
- Fuel consumption of around 35km per litre in the city, without feeling like the tank was draining too quickly
Y-Shift in the City
The moment the traffic light turns green, hit Y-Shift Level 1 and you immediately feel a noticeably more aggressive surge of pickup. It’s not an exaggeration to say that Y-Shift genuinely makes the Yamaha NVX feel like a whole different machine — it actually does feel more powerful.
Test 2: EKVE Highway — How Fast Does It Go?
On the highway, I managed to hit 121 km/h on flat road — and in wet conditions, no less. So I couldn’t fully explore the scooter’s top-end potential. What I can say is that the engine still felt like it had more to give.
Where Y-Shift Really Earns Its Keep
- Need to overtake? Done and dusted with ease
- Climbing a hill? Power delivery stays strong and doesn’t fade
- Hit Y-Shift, back off the throttle, and the momentum is still there
When the rain came, the Yamaha NVX SP felt like a ‘jetski on land‘ — composed, stable, and completely unfazed.
Test 3: Hulu Langat Corners — Let’s See What It’s Got
Hulu Langat is a firm favourite among riders who enjoy a proper twisty road — hills, descents, and blind corners, all packed into one great route. And this is where the Yamaha NVX SP truly came alive.
I tried descending the hill without touching the brakes, relying entirely on Y-Shift to control my speed.
Why Was I Confident Enough to Try That?
Because Y-Shift Level 3 delivers a solid, purposeful downshift feel — strong enough to scrub off speed without any excessive shuddering. And that ‘ssssskkkk-rrrrttt‘ sound when Y-Shift kicks in? It genuinely sounds like a MotoGP downshift.
The sensation of riding this 155cc scooter genuinely felt like being on a small sportbike. No, really.
Is the NVX SP Actually Worth Buying?
Short answer: YES — if you can afford it.
Long answer:
Why It’s Worth It
- Y-Shift is the real deal — not just clever marketing
- The Yamaha NVX SP feels significantly more alive than your average 155cc scooter
- Modern touches like the TFT panel, Google Maps integration, and Y-Connect give it a genuinely premium feel
- If you just want the ABS variant, the second-generation NVX ABS still holds up well and is worth considering
Why It Might Not Be Worth It for Some
- Paying over RM14,000 for a small scooter is a big ask for many buyers
- On a seven-year loan, the monthly repayments could put a real dent in your budget by month’s end
- The firm suspension isn’t ideal if your daily commute involves constantly battling rough or broken road surfaces
Not a Fan of the Colours?
Don’t worry — the Indonesian aftermarket coverset scene has plenty of wild and aggressive options to transform the look entirely.
If you’re after a scooter with a genuinely sporty character, unique technology, and that rare ability to put a grin on your face every single ride, the Yamaha NVX SP is one of the best picks in the sub-160cc class. It’s not for everyone — but if you value technology and performance, this adventure scooter absolutely delivers.
