Force Gurkha Could Get 6- And 8-Seater Options

• The offroader could get a more practical 5-door variant in the future.
• Notable features include a touchscreen infotainment system, snorkel, and manual-locking differentials.
• Powered by a 91PS 2.6-litre diesel engine, paired with a 5-speed manual.
• Priced from Rs 13.59 lakh (ex-showroom).

To make the Gurkha more practical than ever, Force could soon offer the SUV with 6- and 8-seater options, as hinted by an RTO document. However, it remains to be seen if the Gurkha will come back in a 5-door format should these variants be introduced.

Currently, the offroader is available as a 4-seater with large and comfy captain seats for rear occupants.   

The first-gen Gurkha had a range of seating options (from a 4- to a 9-seater) and was available in 3- and 5-door body styles. It was offered in three broad trims: Xtreme (3-door), Xplorer (3- and 5-door), and Xpedition (5-door). In comparison, the second-gen model is only a 3-door offering sold in a single trim.  

If Force does bring the 5-door variant in the future, the Gurkha will be the first offroader under Rs 20 lakh to get an extra set of doors. For reference, Mahindra is planning to launch the 5-door Thar sometime in 2023, while there’s no word yet on when the Jimny would make it to India.  

The Gurkha features an aftermarket touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, manual air-conditioning, and front power windows. Passenger safety is taken care of by dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and rear parking sensors. The SUV also gets a snorkel and manual-locking (front and rear) differentials to aid off-roading.  

Propelling the Gurkha is a Mercedes-derived 91PS 2.6-litre diesel engine, paired with a 5-speed manual. A low-range gearbox is on offer to help the SUV navigate challenging terrains. 

The Force offroader is priced from Rs 13.59 lakh (ex-showroom), pitting it against the Mahindra Thar and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny.