Next-Gen Force Gurkha Goes On Sale In India At Rs 13.59 Lakh, To Rival Mahindra Thar And Maruti Suzuki Jimny

• The 2021 offroader has a retro G-Class-like body with LED headlights and circular DRLs, new glass panes for the windows and windscreens, and a revised front grille.

• Features include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a four-speaker sound system, front power windows, USB ports for front- and second-row passengers, and central locking.

• Powered by a 91PS 2.6-litre diesel engine, paired with a 5-speed manual and an 4x4 drivetrain.

• Off-roading assists include a low-range gearbox, manual (front and rear locking diffs), an air intake snorkel, and a 700mm water wading capacity.

• Bookings are underway for a token amount of Rs 25,000.

Force Motors has launched the next-generation Gurkha at a price tag of Rs 13.59 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).  The offroader the carmaker’s answer to the Mahindra Thar that is priced from  Rs 12.78 lakh and Rs 15.08 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). It will also take on the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny. 

G-Class Vibes 

So what’s new in the 2021 Gurkha?  For starters, the carmaker claims its body panels have been redesigned. Also, there are new glass panes for the windows and windscreens, LED headlamps with circular DRLs, fog lamps, and a revised front grille with ‘Gurkha’ badging in the centre. Other than that, the boxy silhouette and the high stance make the SUV look like a retro Mercedes-Benz G-Class in different clothing.

The new-gen Gurkha is also larger than its predecessor, measuring 4116mm long (+124mm), 1812mm wide (+22mm), and 2075mm tall (+20mm). Its wheelbase remains unchanged at 2400mm. Five colour options are on offer: red, green, white, orange, and grey.

More Civilised Cabin 

Inside, the new Gurkha has dark grey upholstery with patterns on the seats and door panels. It is a three-door SUV that can seat four people, thanks to its captain seats. You can also increase the seating capacity with factory-fitted accessories.

Raft Of Features

These include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, front power windows, a four-speaker sound system, a 12V power socket, two USB sockets for front- and second-row occupants, telescopic and tilt steering, and central locking. Safety kit includes dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, follow-me-home lamps, cornering lamps, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. 

Under The Hood

Powering the offroader is a 2.6-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, delivering 91PS and 250Nm. This is paired with a 5-speed manual and a 4x4 drivetrain. 

Off-road Credentials

What’s an offroader without some trickery for rough terrains?  The Gurkha’s all-wheel drivetrain is equipped with a low-range gearbox, manual (front and rear) locking differentials, front and rear anti-roll bars, and an air intake snorkel. It has a water wading capacity of 700mm. For reference, here’s how it goes up against the competition:

 *AX trim

Force Motors will begin offering test drives for the 2021 Gurkha to customers before mid-October, which can be scheduled via the company website. Bookings for the off-roader are underway for a token of Rs 25,000, with deliveries set to begin from October 15. The carmaker is also offering after-sales services, including maintenance, roadside assistance, and warranty programs.