Vespa 946 Horse Coming to New Zealand | Brown Is the New Black

Vespa has been celebrating the lunar new year with special one-year-only 946 specials for a couple of years now, and the latest version, the 946 Horse, has pulled a new trick by making brown actually look stunningly stylish.

Vespa’s Lunar Collection continues with the arrival of the Vespa 946 Horse, a limited-edition model inspired by the symbolism of the Year of the Horse. Following the Dragon and the Snake editions, this latest release draws on the horse’s enduring associations with strength, freedom and resilience, all expressed through Vespa’s most premium platform.

At its core, the 946 Horse is about movement and elegance. Finished in a deep bay brown, the colour choice mirrors the rich, glossy coat of a thoroughbred, setting it apart from anything else in Vespa’s lineup. The steel monocoque body is treated to a mix of matte and gloss finishes, complemented by subtle gold detailing, including a V monogram set into a horseshoe motif beneath the seat.

As expected from the 946, craftsmanship is front and centre. The leather saddle takes cues from traditional equestrian tack and is handcrafted in Italy, with matching premium leather trim on the handlebars and mirrors. The result is a scooter that blends luxury, heritage and modern design — unmistakably Vespa, yet quietly bold in its execution.

A curated selection of accessories complements the limited edition with care and precision, reflecting its equestrian-inspired style. Made in Italy from the same leather as the saddle, the rear bag is both practical and elegant, while the windshield features aluminium supports that enhance its aesthetic appeal. In keeping with the Vespa 946 Horse, the jet helmet showcases a three-dimensional gold V on the back, reinforcing its strong and distinctive identity.

New Zealand is set to receive just ONE example of the Vespa 946 Horse with it expected to arrive from Italy in May. Pricing is yet to be announced, but with the Dragon and Snake versions commanding a price of around $25,000, expect the Horse to command a similar price point for its exclusivity.