Yamaha Motor India Chairman Hajime Aota has stated in a recent interview that the brand is reevaluating a potential entry into the 250cc to 1000cc segment in India. This could mean the brand brings some of its internationally sold models to India.
Hajime Aota has not revealed which models are being considered, but we expect the brand to bring back the Yamaha R3 and the MT-03 to India. Since the discontinuation of both models and the recent launch of the Yamaha R2, the brand has no offering in the 300-400cc segment.
Filling this portfolio gap to compete better with rivals like KTM and TVS would be the most logical step. Another interesting model that could help Yamaha gain a bigger market share is the Lander 250, which was showcased at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025. The motorcycle could help the brand enter the growing dual-sport segment.
Currently, this segment is dominated by Hero with the Xpulse 200 4v and the Xpulse 210. Kawasaki has recently entered this space with the KLX230, and Honda is also planning on doing so with the upcoming XR300L and the XR300 Rally.
In the higher-capacity space, the brand could also bring the Tenere 700 and R7, if Yamaha is serious about expanding its lineup. Both of these models were showcased at Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, along with the Lander 250.
Lastly, expanding R&D capacity in India was also mentioned, along with expanding export capacity compared to Indonesia. If the brand plans to manufacture its upcoming higher-capacity models in India, it could help in pricing them competitively compared to rivals.
