The 2025 Ather 450X has arrived, and while it looks remarkably similar to the version that debuted in 2018, Ather Energy has made significant updates under the hood to keep it relevant in the ever-evolving world of electric scooters. From advanced traction control modes to innovative regenerative braking systems and improved software integration, the new Ather 450X aims to balance performance, technology, and value. This in-depth review will explore every aspect of the scooter, from its new features to its tried-and-tested strengths, and help you decide if it’s worth the investment.

Design and Aesthetics: Familiar Yet Fresh

At first glance, the 2025 Ather 450X retains the same sleek and modern design that has been its hallmark since its debut. While this may seem disappointing to some, Ather has introduced two new color options to refresh the scooter’s aesthetic appeal. These colors lend a contemporary vibe, ensuring the scooter remains visually appealing on urban roads.

The minimalist design philosophy, sharp lines, and futuristic appeal continue to set the 450X apart from the competition. Its compact frame makes it agile and easy to maneuver in city traffic, while the new colors add a layer of sophistication. However, there are no major visual overhauls, keeping the focus on functionality rather than form.

Revolutionary Traction Control Modes

One of the most significant updates to the 2025 Ather 450X is the introduction of three traction control modes—Rain, Road, and Rally. These modes cater to different riding conditions, making the scooter more versatile.

• Rain Mode: This mode is the most intrusive, designed for monsoon conditions or wet roads. It ensures maximum control and minimizes the chances of skidding, making it perfect for slippery surfaces.
• Rally Mode: The least intrusive of the three, Rally Mode allows for more playful riding. On less grippy surfaces, it enables slight fishtailing while ensuring the scooter doesn’t completely lose control.
• Traction Control Off: For riders who want full control, turning off traction control completely allows for a raw and uninhibited riding experience.

Testing these modes on a dirt track highlighted subtle differences, particularly between Rain Mode and TC Off. While the transitions were not always evident in controlled conditions, the real-world utility of these modes, especially on slippery or uneven terrain, cannot be overstated.

Enhanced Tires and Performance

The Ather 450X now comes equipped with MRF Zapper N E tread tires across the lineup, including the SX and Apex models. These tires boast low rolling resistance, which Ather claims can increase the scooter’s range by up to 24%.

Despite initial concerns about reduced grip due to the low rolling resistance, the tires performed admirably during the track tests. They warmed up quickly even in the cold Bangalore weather and provided sufficient grip while cornering aggressively. However, during hard braking, there was a slight sense of instability, though this was minimal.

In real-world conditions, the tires should deliver an excellent balance of range and grip, making the scooter ideal for city commuting and occasional spirited rides.

Magic Twist: A New Era of Regenerative Braking

Ather’s innovative Magic Twist regenerative braking system is another standout feature in the 2025 450X. This technology allows riders to choose between three levels of regenerative braking: High, Low, and Off.

In High mode, the regenerative braking is powerful enough to handle most braking scenarios, reducing the reliance on conventional brakes. While this felt intrusive during the track test, it is expected to shine in everyday riding, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Initially, the sudden deceleration took some getting used to, but with practice, it became a valuable feature. Ather’s vision for the future is to make regenerative braking so effective that riders might not need traditional braking systems in most scenarios—a bold but intriguing proposition.

Upgraded Ather Stack 6.0 Software

The 2025 Ather 450X introduces the Ather Stack 6.0 software, which powers the scooter’s touchscreen display and brings several new features:

• Refreshed Smartphone App: The app now offers live scooter charging status, notifications, and improved connectivity.
• WhatsApp Notifications on Dashboard: Riders can receive and respond to messages directly from the scooter’s interface.
• Alexa Integration: Voice commands for navigation, music control, and more.
• Auto Call Replies: Riders can automatically respond to incoming calls without needing their phone.
• Live Location Sharing: Useful for real-time updates to friends or family.
• Scooter Locator Function: Helps you locate your parked scooter in crowded areas.

The user interface is intuitive, with clean text and icon layouts. However, during testing, the system occasionally failed to pair with smartphones, which could be a minor annoyance for tech-savvy users.

Core Specifications and Performance

While the Ather 450X has undergone multiple updates, its core specifications remain unchanged. The scooter is powered by a 6.4 kW electric motor delivering a peak torque of 26 Nm, which provides a top speed of 90 km/h.

The battery options include:

• 2.9 kWh: Offers a true range of 105 km, up from 85 km in the previous model.
• 3.7 kWh: Provides a true range of 130 km, an improvement from 105 km.

These figures are partly attributed to the new low rolling resistance tires, which enhance efficiency without compromising significantly on grip.

The scooter’s telescopic forks, monoshock suspension, and 12-inch alloy wheels contribute to its confident handling. Whether zipping through city traffic or carving corners at a racetrack, the 450X feels agile and stable.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The 2024 model of the Ather 450X was priced at ₹1.55 lakh (ex-showroom) without the Pro Pack. Adding the Pro Pack increased the cost to ₹1.75 lakh. For the 2025 model, prices have risen by ₹2,000 to ₹6,400, depending on the variant.

While this makes the scooter more expensive, the Pro Pack is highly recommended as it unlocks essential features like Warp Mode, Google Maps navigation, and extended warranty. Without it, the scooter feels incomplete, especially given the competition in the premium EV segment.

Real-World Usability and Comfort

The Ather 450X continues to excel in comfort and practicality. Its upright seating position ensures a comfortable ride for daily commutes. The compact frame might feel snug for taller riders, but it adds to the scooter’s playful and nimble character.

The regenerative braking, traction control modes, and improved software integration make it a versatile companion for both city rides and occasional adventures.

Final Verdict: Should You Care?

The 2025 Ather 450X is a testament to Ather Energy’s commitment to continuous improvement. While the design remains familiar, the updates in traction control, regenerative braking, and software integration make it a compelling choice in the premium electric scooter market.

However, the rising prices may deter some buyers, especially with fierce competition offering similar features at lower price points. If you prioritize cutting-edge technology, reliability, and an engaging riding experience, the 2025 Ather 450X is worth every penny. For those seeking a budget-friendly option, exploring alternatives might be more practical.

In conclusion, the 2025 Ather 450X strikes an impressive balance between innovation and practicality, making it a worthy contender in the electric scooter segment. Whether you’re upgrading from an older model or considering your first EV scooter, the Ather 450X deserves serious consideration.