The refreshed 2024 Jupiter was under our radar for a long time. While pondering the upcoming Jupiter, we thought it could even be a CNG due to the Bajaj Freedom. Later, I realised that the scooter is neither CNG nor completely electric, but has a hybrid angle. TVS doesn’t even call it a hybrid. Instead, it was christened iGO Assist. More on the micro-hybrid later. It is not just trying to be green. Rather, it is trying to be a more practical solution in the eyes of the buyer.
The scooter remains stable at all speeds, even while cornering, thanks to the vastly improved chassis of the Jupiter 125 and lower forward centre of gravity. The scooter is 3kg heavier than earlier and 1kg lighter than the Japanese rival, not because of the diamond-like carbon coating used on the piston rings. It might have reduced the vibrations on the go and whilst idle.
Not 100g, but a whole 1kg, and all the updates, as mentioned earlier, are light years ahead of the Honda Activa. The Cherry on the cake, TVS Jupiter, starts at a few thousand lower than the Activa. Does this mean the Honda Activa is a dying star? After a decade of winning silver, TVS aims straight for the gold.
The new LED light strips with integrated turn indicators wrap around the front and rear aprons. Unlike the replacement of the 110cc Jupiter, TVS has given full LED treatment to the top variants. I haven't tested it since I was orbiting the Hosur TVS test track under the bright sun. Coming to the sides, the playing field for your feet can accommodate a gas cylinder! Playing it safe on the sides is still rooted in the family-friendly look. Besides, two sharp creases running towards the rear add some character. At the rear end of things, it resembles iQube, only to be better. The scooter, named after the largest planet in the solar system, now boasts the largest seat in the segment, with 756mm long and a clumsy hinge. The fuel filler at the front is the most convenient part of a scooter. Also, increasing under-seat storage easily accommodates two half-face helmets. However, the boot lamp has been removed, a realisation that every rider has a mobile flash with them. The body of the latest TVS Jupiter is constructed using a combination of fibre and metal. The scooter offers connectivity features like those of bigger motorcycles and self-cancelling indicators. The top variant features a negative full LCD instrument cluster. The turn indicator switch doubles as a hazard lamp switch.
Engine: 113.3cc single-cylinder, fuel injection, air-cooled
Power: 7.9bhp @ 6500rpm
Torque: 9.2Nm @ 5000rpm
9.8Nm @ 5000rpm with Assist
Top speed: 82kph
Transmission: CVT
Kerb weight: 105kg
Front suspension: Telescopic forks
Rear suspension: 3-step adjustable mono-shock
Front Brake: 220mm Petal Disc
Rear Brake: 130mm Drum
Front and rear tyres: TVS Eurogrip 12-inch 90/90
I was told the heart of the matter is a new 113.3cc engine derived from the Jupiter 125. The previous 109.7 cc motor produced 7.7bhp of power and 8.8Nm of torque. The newest Jupiter churns out 7.9bhp. However, it is not the power that has been the focus this time. A quick twist of the throttle activates the iGO assist and gives you an extra boost in terms of torque. The boost lasts for a few seconds and is available twice every two minutes. Hence, Jupiter can now have 9.8Nm of torque with battery boost and 9.2Nm without assistance. It is not enough to rotate the planet, but plenty of torque to be the talk of the town. The alien technology comprises an Integrated Starter Generator, Assist Motor, High-Performance battery and ISG Controller. These are also responsible for silent start and intelligent start/stop. Moving forward, the TVS Jupiter claims to have 7-10% better fuel economy and stopping is taken care of by a Petal disc at the front and a drum at the rear. I can't comment on the ride quality due to a lack of experience on the bad roads. We will put these to the test extensively when we get the scooter on the extraterrestrial terrains of Mumbai.
