- Longer version with 5-doors
- Seating configuration of 2-3-2 (captain seats in last row)
- Uses same 91 bhp diesel engine mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox
Force Motors seems all set to launch a longer version of the hard core off-roader, Gurkha 4x4x4. As seen in images here, the production version was spotted at a dealership and is kitted with accessories too. While the company has not disclosed any information yet, here is what you need to know about this SUV. All images via this video.
Gurkha 5-door Price
The normal 3-door Gurkha 4x4 currently carries an ex-showroom price of Rs 14.75 lakh. The longer 5-door version is expected to carry a premium of about Rs 1 lakh. Standard features and equipment will remain unchanged, however, owners will get additional seats and luggage space.
Do note, the model you see here is fitted with accessories like alloy wheels, windscreen bar, roof rack et al and these will up the price further. Even then, for a stock 7 seater 4x4 vehicle, an ex-showroom price of about Rs 15.75 lakh is fantastic. In contrast, the Thar hard-top 2-door costs Rs 14.8 lakh for the diesel MT version. 4x4 will be standard on the Gurkha 5-door. However, a lower version with less features and 4x2 could be on offer for rural areas at a later stage.
Don't Miss : Gurkha 3-door Ownership Review
Gurkha 5-door Engine
The 2023 Force Gurkha 4x4x4 in its 7 seater avatar will continue to use the same 2596cc turbo-diesel engine that puts out 91 horses and 250Nm of torque. These figures are lower than the Thar 4x4 but the short gearing and tuning of engine means you are not left wanting for more in traffic conditions. The 4x4 low transfer box also ensures oodles of torque in hard core situations. That said, the Mahindra Thar diesel surely has better outright acceleration and top speed. One plus point in favour of the Gurkha is that the engine does not need Ad Blue liquid - it meets BS6 norms without this. Very good feature for those looking at prolonged hill driving.
Gurkha 7-Seater Features
The upcoming longer Gurkha will be sold in one version only. This will offer power windows for all four doors, a touch-screen infotainment system with Android Auto / Car Play, ABS, Dual Airbags, TPMS or Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Follow me home lights etc. And no, unlike the Thar diesel, Force will not offer the Gurkha with an automatic gearbox option.
The upcoming longer Force Gurkha will continue to offer a water wading depth of 700mm - this is way better than that of the Thar. The shorter 3-door Gurkha has a gradeability of 35 degrees and the new model could offer the same levels too. A snorkel, as seen here, will be a standard fitment.
Verdict: If you want a proper 5-door 4x4 SUV that can do what the Fortuner 4x4 can, but at half the price, this is it!
