Vespa Philippines held the fun Festa 2023 event at SM Mall of Asia in Pasay. Given the festive feel, it was only right to launch the brand’s newest scooter at the event.

That “new” scooter we’re talking about is the big-bodied GTV. Yes, the same one that was launched a year ago at the International Motorcycle and Accessories Exhibition. Though it looks fairly similar to the outgoing model, eagle-eyed enthusiasts would immediately notice subtle but tasteful upgrades done to the scooter.

The headlight cluster is still sitting atop the front fender. But it now uses LED lighting technology. Whether you’re getting it in Beige Sabbia Glossy or Gray Titanio Glossy color, both come with orange graphics on the necktie’s horizontal slats, the instrumentation cover, and the rear fender fairings. The two-seat sporty saddle also comes with orange contrast stitching.

The circular instrument cluster is now all-digital, which works with the Vespa MIA connectivity system that comes as a separate accessory.

Some bells and whistles were also added to the bike. The first of which is a keyless system, a first for locally available Vespas. The new LCD instrumentation shows various information like maximum speed, average or instant speed, and fuel consumption, as well as the battery charge status. There’s also a USB port available for juicing up your gadgets.

In terms of safety equipment, the new GTV also comes with front and rear antilock brakes and electronic traction control. Powering this scooter is the tried-and-tested 300cc four-valve, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected high-performance engine.

This motor makes 23hp and 25Nm. It transfers power to the rear wheel via a continuously variable transmission. Fuel consumption is claimed to be 28.7km/L.

Expect flippers to snag the units first and resell them at exorbitant prices. But if you’re patient enough, you can get yours for P425,000. And you can do that by visiting a Vespa dealer nearest you and making a reservation for one.