Yamaha FZ-S Fi

The Yamaha FZ-S Fi Hybrid is the first 150cc offering in India to get a mild-hybrid system. It was first showcased at Bharat Mobility Global Auto Expo in January 2025. It is based on the time-tested FZ line-up, and now gets a Starter Motor Generator (SMG). It adds a slight performance increment and assists the engine during acceleration. Meant primarily for city riding, the FZ-S Fi Hybrid claims to deliver improved efficiency, while still retaining the bike’s familiar muscular character.

It is for someone looking for reliability, mileage, and refinement. It's also still the only ‘hybrid’ bike in its segment since its launch.

• The FZ-S Fi Hybrid has bigger proportions than usual for a 150cc motorcycle, thanks to the beefy fuel tank and sharp tank extensions, which give it a good road presence.

• The headlight has a distinct styling and it looks nothing like any other bike, onlookers can identify the bike even when they view it from a distance.

• Yamaha has kept the design same as the current FZ series, and it is hard to distinguish it from the standard bike. If you are confused, here’s all the variants explained.

• Build quality feels solid overall, with tight fitment, panel gaps and durable plastic parts that give confidence in the long-term.

• The FZ-S Fi Hybrid comes in 3 colour options: Ice Storm, Matt Black, and Cyan Metallic Grey. Meanwhile, the standard version is offered in Metallic Black and Ice Fluo-Vermillion.

• The standout feature is the new full-colour TFT screen instrumentation setup, which gets Bluetooth connectivity for navigation, music control, calls and SMS alerts.

• The display is clearly visible under the bright sun, is neatly laid out, and is easy to read.

• It gets an ambient light sensor as well, which changes the display theme from a bright white colour to a dim black mode when it detects low light conditions.

• Yamaha has upgraded the switchgear like the push start button that feels premium.

• The hybrid assist system uses the SMG to provide an acceleration surge, visible on the console with an "Assist" light.

• There's also an Eco mode indicator that helps riders remain in the fuel-efficient engine RPM range.

• While it gets LED lighting for the headlight and tail light, the turn signal indicators remain halogen.

• The bike includes traction control even on the standard FZ – and here’s how the hybrid differs from the FZ.

• The handlebar is tall and is angled towards the rider, providing good leverage - while the footpegs are slightly rear-set, creating a relaxed yet slightly sporty stance.

• The seat is wide and long enough, with room for both short stature and taller riders to place their knees comfortably.

• While the front suspension is compliant and the cushioning offers a balance of firmness and plushness, the stiff rear suspension with longer rides in the saddle results in discomfort.

• The pillion seat is compact and has a higher pillion footpeg position, which may feel cramped for individuals during longer commutes.

• A slight amount of buzz and vibrations can be felt through the handlebar and footpegs at higher revs, though it's not enough to be a deal-breaker.

• Yamaha's 149cc single-cylinder engine is known for its refinement levels, the difference here is that it gets better low-end grunt with the hybrid system.

• The hybrid assist works best under 4000rpm and gives a subtle but noticeable push during initial acceleration and roll-ons, the throttle response is linear in nature.

• It handles city riding duty with ease, with smooth gear shifts - but lacks the excitement levels of the original Yamaha FZ16.

• On the highway, however, the engine starts to strain after 80kmph, and quick overtakes need careful planning due to the limited power delivery from the Hybrid assist.

• If you like to ride faster than traffic - look elsewhere, this bike won’t suit you, it’s for people who like to ride in a relaxed manner.

• The mileage figure, according to our mileage test data - it achieved 70kmpl in real-world conditions. It’s impressive, at par with 125cc bikes, and the fuel tank capacity is 13 litres.

• The engine auto start-stop system also helps increase mileage by shutting off the engine while stuck in traffic, standing at traffic signals, and stop signs.

• The clutch is light and easy to use, with an easy to gauge bite point which makes commuting in traffic less tiring.

• The FZ-S Fi Hybrid has great chassis, handling dynamics and agility traits, changing directions easily - perfect for weaving through tight city lanes and congested traffic.

• With regard to brakes, it has a good brake lever bite, and it sheds speed quickly without locking up thanks to the inclusion of single-channel ABS.

• The rear suspension is on the stiffer side, especially over bad patches of road, sharp potholes, and speed bumps.

• With a pillion on board, the suspension settles down a bit, smoothing out some of the harshness from road joints, crests, and dips.

• The upright seating ergos, combined with the light kerb weight of 138kg, makes the bike easy to manoeuvre in traffic and tight lanes.

• Ride quality may feel too firm for broken city roads, and highway riders will want more power.

• If you want a feature-loaded 150cc commuter that offers great mileage and striking looks, the FZ-S Fi Hybrid is a solid choice – made sweeter by the GST 2.0 price drops.

• The hybrid assist system works well in real-world traffic conditions and improves fuel economy without complicating the riding experience.

• Compared to the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Hero Xtreme 160R 4V – it offers good quality levels, and unique hybrid tech.

• But it doesn’t offer as much excitement as rivals – but is a good bike in isolation. Here are some other bikes in the same price range.