The Honda Activa is not merely a scooter; it is a cultural phenomenon in India, often credited with single-handedly shifting the country’s two-wheeler preference from motorcycles to gearless scooters. Launched in 2018, the Honda Activa 5G represented the fifth major iteration of this iconic franchise, building upon a winning formula of reliability, comfort, and sheer utility while introducing key modern features.
The 5G era proved immensely successful, continuing the Activa’s streak as India’s best-selling two-wheeler. However, the lifespan of the Activa 5G was curtailed by India’s stringent shift to BS6 emission norms. The model was officially discontinued in March 2020 and replaced by the Activa 6G.
Despite its official retirement from the new vehicle market, the Activa 5G retains immense relevance. It remains a fixture in the thriving Indian used two-wheeler market, celebrated for its legendary build quality and simpler mechanical architecture compared to its fuel-injected successors. For potential second-hand buyers or existing owners seeking deep maintenance knowledge, understanding the 5G’s original specifications, features, and performance benchmarks is paramount.
Last Recorded Price in India and the Used Market Reality
When discussing the price of the honda Activa 5G, one must differentiate between the official, last-recorded on-road price (before its discontinuation) and its current market valuation as a used vehicle.
A. Last Official Pricing (Pre-2020)
As a BS4 compliant model, the last recorded ex-showroom prices for the Honda Activa 5G were extremely competitive, maintaining its value-for-money proposition.
| Variant | Last Recorded Ex-Showroom Price (Approx.) | Last Recorded On-Road Price (Delhi, Approx.) |
| Activa 5G Standard (STD) | ₹55,934 | ₹66,642 |
| Activa 5G Deluxe (DLX) | ₹57,799 | ₹68,640 |
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Note: The on-road price included RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes, varying significantly across cities. The Deluxe variant commanded a small premium for its semi-digital console and LED features.
B. The Current Price Reality: The Used Market
Since the Activa 5G is no longer sold new, its current price is determined entirely by the secondary market. The model’s reputation for reliability and low maintenance cost ensures it retains one of the highest resale values in the scooter segment.
As of late 2024 / 2025, the price of a used Honda Activa 5G in major Indian cities typically falls within the following range:
- Used Activa 5G Starting Price: ₹45,000 (Minimum)
- Average Selling Price: ₹48,000 to ₹55,000
Key Factors Influencing Used Price:
- Year of Manufacture: Models from late 2019 tend to fetch a higher price.
- Condition: The metal body, a signature feature, is a key inspection point for rust or major dents.
- Kilometres Driven: Models under 10,000 km are highly sought after and command top prices.
- Ownership Documentation: Clear title, valid insurance, and transfer papers are mandatory for optimal resale value.
The used Activa 5G represents excellent value, offering the famous Honda reliability at a price point significantly lower than a new Activa 6G or Activa 110.
Mileage Test & Powertrain Details: The HET Advantage
The core strength of the Honda Activa franchise has always been its balance of dependable performance and class-leading fuel efficiency, largely achieved through the refined 110 cc engine platform.
A. The Engine Specifications
The Activa 5G was powered by the tried-and-tested 109.19 cc single-cylinder, air-cooled, HET engine. It was a BS4-compliant unit and, critically, used a Carburetor for fuel delivery, which is a major point of difference from the BS6 Activa 6G (which uses Fuel Injection).
| Specification | Honda Activa 5G BS4 |
| Engine Type | Fan Cooled, 4-Stroke, SI Engine |
| Displacement | 109.19 cc |
| Max Power | 7.96 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 9 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
| Fuel System | Carburetor |
| Transmission | V – Matic (Automatic CVT) |
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The HET (Honda Eco Technology) package involved numerous tweaks to the engine’s internal components, including the piston and combustion chamber, to maximize fuel combustion efficiency without compromising the smooth, reliable power delivery the Activa is known for.
B. Real-World Mileage Test Analysis
While manufacturers provide ARAI certified mileage figures (which are laboratory-tested under ideal conditions), the real-world performance is the key metric for Indian commuters.
- ARAI Claimed Mileage: 60 kmpl
- Owner-Reported Mileage: 45 kmpl to 50 kmpl
In real-world tests, particularly those conducted on Indian city roads involving stop-start traffic and varying throttle inputs, the Activa 5G consistently delivered a strong average mileage of 45 kmpl. Riders who maintained the recommended “Eco Speed” range of 35 kmph to 55 kmph (indicated by the Eco Speed Indicator on the DLX variant) often reported figures closer to the 50 kmpl mark.
This efficiency, combined with its 5.3 litre fuel tank capacity, gave the Activa 5G a theoretical Riding Range of approximately 265 km on a full tank, making it a highly economical choice for daily commuting.
Signature Features and Design Language
The transition from Activa 4G to 5G was characterized by subtle yet crucial feature additions that modernized the package while retaining the classic, universally appealing design silhouette.
A. Key Design and Lighting Upgrades
The most notable visual change on the Activa 5G was the adoption of modern lighting technology:
- Full LED Headlamp: Available on the Deluxe (DLX) variant, this feature significantly improved night-time visibility and gave the scooter a much-needed premium appearance, a first for the Activa line.
- Chrome Garnish: Chrome accents were tastefully applied to the front apron, elevating the overall aesthetic and giving the 5G a more premium road presence.
- Full Metal Body: A signature Activa trait, the 5G retained its durable, all-metal body panels, which provided superior resistance to minor scratches and gave the scooter a robust, confidence-inspiring feel. This is a point of preference for many legacy users over the mostly fiber panels of the Activa 6G.
Read more : Honda Activa 110
B. Practical and Convenience Features
The Activa 5G focused heavily on practicality for the Indian consumer:
- 4-in-1 Lock with Seat Opening Switch: This highly convenient feature allowed the rider to open the under-seat storage directly using the main ignition key slot, eliminating the need to physically insert the key into a separate seat lock mechanism, a massive user experience upgrade.
- Semi-Digital Instrument Cluster (DLX): The Deluxe variant featured an analogue speedometer combined with a small digital display. This digital section offered crucial information such as a digital clock, a service due indicator, and the aforementioned ECO Speed Indicator, moving the Activa into the modern scooter era.
- Mobile Charging Socket: An optional extra, the mobile charging socket was positioned inside the 18 L under-seat storage area, offering a convenient way to charge small devices on the go.
- CBS (Combi Brake System): For safety, the Activa 5G was equipped with Honda’s CBS with Equalizer. This system ensures that when the rider applies the rear brake lever, a portion of the braking force is automatically distributed to the front wheel, enhancing stability and reducing the risk of skidding.
Latest Updates: The Transition to BS6 and the 6G Comparison
The latest update regarding the Activa 5G is its status as a highly sought-after legacy model. Its discontinuation marks a critical moment in the Activa’s history—the shift from a rugged, carburetted workhorse to a feature-rich, fuel-injected commuter.
A. The Discontinuation Factor: BS6 Norms
The Activa 5G was a BS4 vehicle. When the Indian government mandated the Bharat Stage 6 (BS6) emission norms from April 1, 2020, the Activa 5G had to be retired. BS6 requires significantly lower pollutant emissions, necessitating the switch from a simple Carburetor system to a more complex, electronically controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM−FI) system.
B. Key Differences: Activa 5G vs. Activa 6G/Activa 110
Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone deciding between a used Activa 5G and a new Activa 6G or its latest iteration, the Activa 110:
| Feature | Honda Activa 5G (BS4) | Honda Activa 6G (BS6) / Activa 110 |
| Engine | 109.19 cc, Carburetor | 109.51 cc, Fuel Injection (PGM−FI) |
| Chassis/Body | Full Metal Body | Mostly Fibre Body (Front Apron is Metal) |
| Suspension | Spring Loaded Hydraulic (Both Ends) | Telescopic Forks (Front), 3-Step Adjustable Rear |
| Front Wheel Size | 10-inch | 12-inch |
| Starting | Normal Self-Start | ACG Silent Start (Smoother start) |
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While the Activa 6G / Activa 110 offers superior suspension, a smoother FI engine, and silent starting, the Activa 5G is often preferred in the used market for its:
- Simpler Mechanics: The carburetor is easier and cheaper for local mechanics to maintain and repair.
- Sturdy Feel: The full metal body provides a confidence-inspiring sturdiness.
- Low Initial Cost: The used price point is often unbeatable for the value delivered.
Complete Technical Specifications
| Category | Specification |
| Engine & Performance | |
| Displacement | 109.19 cc |
| Max Power | 7.96 PS @ 7500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 9 Nm @ 5500 rpm |
| Fuel System | Carburetor |
| Cooling System | Fan Cooled |
| Starter | Kick and Self Start |
| Chassis & Dimensions | |
| Kerb Weight | 109 kg |
| Seat Height | 765 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 153 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 5.3 litres |
| Frame | Under Bone |
| Brakes & Tyres | |
| Braking System | CBS (Combi Brake System) |
| Front Brake | 130 mm Drum |
| Rear Brake | 130 mm Drum |
| Wheel Type | Sheet Metal |
| Tyre Size (Front/Rear) | 90/100−10 (Tubeless) |
| Features (DLX Variant) | |
| Headlamp | LED |
| Instrument Console | Semi-Digital |
| Ignition Lock | 4-in-1 Lock with Seat Opener |
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Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Reliability
The Honda Activa 5G stands as a testament to Honda’s ability to dominate the Indian two-wheeler space through consistency and continuous refinement. While technically retired, the 5G model defined a generation of urban commuting, offering a perfect blend of fuel-efficient performance, practical features like the 4-in-1 lock, and the robust durability afforded by its full metal body.
For a new scooter buyer today, the Activa 6G or Activa 110 is the clear choice for the latest technology, superior suspension, and emission compliance. However, for a buyer on a budget who values simplicity, low long-term maintenance costs, and a legendary reputation for bulletproof reliability, a well-maintained used Activa 5G, with its real-world mileage of 45-50 kmpl and affordable used price, remains one of the smartest purchases in the entire Indian two-wheeler market.
Would you like a detailed comparison table of the Honda Activa 5G vs. the Activa 6G to help understand the full scope of the technological transition?
