The Power Gurkha has its origins in the robust British-built Morris Major of the 1950s. These tough off-roaders were first produced under licence by Mahindra before morphing into the Mahindra MM540 and CJ340. These cars piqued the interest of Force Motors, who purchased the production rights and went on a voyage of refinement in 1977.
The Trax Cruiser, the first Gurkha, went off the assembly line in 2008, carrying on the tradition of off-road ability while featuring a sleeker design and enhanced performance. Subsequent incarnations, such as the Gurkha Xpedition and Xplorer, expanded on its capabilities by adding snorkels, low-range gearboxes, and locking differentials to suit to the ever-growing adventurous spirit.
Force Gurkha Design and Exterior Features
The design of the Force Gurkha is a perfect blend of modernity and the classic charm of a rugged off-roader. Its boxy and muscular silhouette exudes strength and capability. The front fascia is dominated by a bold chrome grille with the iconic Force badge proudly displayed at its center. The large rectangular headlamps with integrated LED DRLs provide excellent visibility in all conditions.
Moving to the side profile, the Gurkha features flared wheel arches that house massive 16-inch alloy wheels shod with all-terrain tires. The high ground clearance and prominent side steps make it easy to tackle challenging terrains. The rear end of the vehicle is characterized by a spare wheel mounted on the tailgate, giving it a traditional SUV look.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the Force Gurkha, and you’ll be greeted by a spacious and comfortable cabin. The seats are well-cushioned and offer excellent support even during long off-road journeys. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials that can withstand rough usage.
The dashboard is intelligently designed with all controls within easy reach of the driver. The instrument cluster is informative and provides vital information such as speed, fuel level, and engine temperature. The Gurkha also comes with a touchscreen infotainment system that supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stay connected even in remote locations.
Engine and Transmission Performance
Under the Gurkha’s hood lies the beating heart of a robust 2.6L diesel engine, pumping out 91 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. This potent powerplant thrives on both tarmac and unpaved paths, delivering responsive acceleration and enough grunt to conquer challenging inclines and technical obstacles. To cater to diverse needs, the Gurkha comes in three engine variants:
Xplorer: The base model boasts the standard 2.6L engine, perfect for budget-conscious adventurers who crave pure off-road capability.
Xpedition: This variant adds a touch of refinement with an optional electronically-controlled engine immobilizer that enhances security.
Xplor Plus: For those seeking a blend of adventure and luxury, the Xplor Plus ups the ante with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, adding a touch of class to your expeditions.
While the horsepower figures may not match some competitors, the Gurkha’s torque ensures impressive low-end grunt, ideal for navigating steep climbs and pulling through challenging terrain. And for the ultimate control in extreme situations, the Xplorer variant offers a unique low-range gearbox, granting you the power to crawl over impossibly steep inclines and technical obstacles with precision. Whether you’re a beginner off-roader or a seasoned veteran, the Gurkha’s engine and variant options provide the perfect blend of power, control, and value to match your adventure ambitions.
The petrol variant is powered by a 2.6-liter engine that delivers a commendable power output of 85 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque. On the other hand, the diesel variant is equipped with a 2.2-liter engine that churns out 140 horsepower and an impressive torque of 321 Nm. Both engines are mated to a 5-speed manual transmission system that ensures smooth gear shifts.
Safety Features
While venturing off the beaten path, the Force Gurkha prioritizes protecting your adventurous spirit with a robust safety net. Foundational features like Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) ensure controlled stops on any terrain, preventing skids and maintaining steering responsiveness. Dual airbags at the front offer vital cushioning in case of collisions, providing peace of mind for both driver and passenger.
Rear parking sensors beep out proximity warnings, minimizing the risk of bumps and scrapes during tight maneuvers in challenging environments. The high-strength steel body construction forms a protective cage around the cabin, absorbing impacts and safeguarding occupants. Additionally, an engine immobilizer adds a layer of security against theft, keeping your Gurkha safe even when parked in remote locations.
While it may not offer the most advanced suite of driver-assistance technologies, the Gurkha’s essential safety features prioritize practical protection for real-world off-road adventures, letting you focus on conquering new terrains with confidence
Off-Road Capabilities
The Force Gurkha’s off-road prowess isn’t mere boasting; it’s meticulously engineered into its very core. Its commanding stance starts with a generous 254mm ground clearance, allowing you to laugh at rocks and wade through streams without a blink. Advanced 4×4 drivetrain with switchable modes lets you adapt to any terrain, from sandy dunes to muddy trails. High approach and departure angles ensure smooth transitions over obstacles, while robust locking differentials on both axles guarantee maximum traction even on slippery slopes.
The high-articulating suspension absorbs bumps and dips with ease, maintaining control and comfort across uneven surfaces. For serious adventurers, the low-range gearbox in the Xplorer variant provides unmatched crawling power for tackling impossibly steep inclines and technical challenges. Additionally, snorkel options in specific variants allow you to conquer water crossings with confidence.
It’s not just about brute force; the Gurkha boasts impressive maneuverability thanks to its compact dimensions and precise steering, letting you navigate tight corners and narrow trails with agility. From tackling extreme inclines to traversing challenging landscapes, the Gurkha’s off-road features are a testament to its unwavering spirit of adventure, ready to conquer any terrain thrown its way
Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for any vehicle, especially for those who embark on long off-road journeys. The Force Gurkha offers decent fuel efficiency figures considering its rugged nature.
The petrol variant delivers an average mileage of around 10-12 km/l, while the diesel variant offers an impressive mileage of around 14-16 km/l. These figures may vary depending on driving conditions and terrain.
Ex-Showroom Prices Around the World
The ex-showroom prices of the Force Gurkha may vary from country to country due to factors such as import duties, taxes, and local market conditions. Here are some approximate ex-showroom prices of the Force Gurkha in different regions:
India: Starting from INR 11 lakh
United States: Starting from USD 25,000
United Kingdom: Starting from GBP 20,000
Australia: Starting from AUD 35,000
Middle East: Starting from AED 85,000
Please note that these prices are subject to change and may vary based on trim levels and optional features.
Color Options
The Force Gurkha is available in an array of attractive color options to suit individual preferences. Some popular color choices include:
Fiery Red
Glacier White
Earthy Brown
Midnight Black
Steel Grey
These color options enhance the visual appeal of the Gurkha while giving customers the freedom to choose according to their personal style.
Driving Dynamics, Practicality and Comfort
When it comes to driving dynamics, the Force Gurkha offers a comfortable ride both on and off-road. The suspension setup is tuned to absorb bumps and undulations effortlessly while maintaining stability at high speeds.
Thanks to its spacious interior and ample legroom, the Gurkha can comfortably accommodate five passengers along with their luggage.
Technology and Features
While the Force Gurkha prioritizes ruggedness and off-road prowess, it doesn’t shy away from offering essential tech features to enhance your journeys. The centerpiece is the touchscreen infotainment system, a hub for connectivity and entertainment. Bluetooth technology seamlessly pairs your phone for hands-free calling and music streaming, keeping you connected even in remote areas.
USB ports provide charging options for devices, ensuring your camera and phone never run out of juice during adventures. Integrated GPS navigation guides you through unfamiliar territories, ensuring you never get lost in the pursuit of exploration. Power windows and central locking add a touch of convenience, letting you control the cabin environment with ease.
While it may not boast cutting-edge driver-assistance features or a fully digital cockpit, the Gurkha’s tech essentials focus on practical functionality, enhancing your comfort and connectivity without compromising its rugged nature. Remember, the true tech marvel lies in the Gurkha’s intuitive engine and off-road capabilities, where precision engineering takes center stage.
Value and Competition
The Force Gurkha offers excellent value for money considering its rugged build quality, powerful performance, and off-road capabilities. It competes with other popular off-road vehicles in its segment such as the Mahindra Thar, Maruti Suzuki Jimny, and Jeep Wrangler.
However, what sets the Gurkha apart is its competitive pricing compared to its rivals while offering similar or even better specifications and features.
The all-new Force Gurkha is a force to be reckoned with in the world of off-road vehicles. With its rugged design, powerful performance, advanced features, and excellent off-road capabilities, it is sure to impress adventure enthusiasts around the globe. Whether you’re tackling challenging terrains or embarking on long road trips, the Gurkha keeps you comfortable and confident throughout your journey. So go ahead, unleash your adventurous spirit, and experience the thrill of conquering new horizons with the mighty Force Gurkha!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Q: Is the Force Gurkha suitable for everyday city commutes?
• A: While the Gurkha performs exceptionally well off-road, it may not be as comfortable for everyday city commutes due to its rugged suspension setup and tall stance.
2. Q: Can I customize my Force Gurkha with additional accessories?
• A: Yes, you can customize your Gurkha with a wide range of accessories such as roof racks, auxiliary lights, snorkels, winches, and more to enhance its off-road capabilities or add personal touches.
3. Q: Does the Force Gurkha come with an automatic transmission option?
• A: Currently, the Gurkha is available only with a manual transmission option. There is no automatic transmission variant offered as of now.
4. Q: How does the fuel efficiency of the Force Gurkha compare to its competitors?
• A: The Gurkha offers competitive fuel efficiency figures when compared to similar off-road vehicles in its segment.
5. Q: Can I take the Force Gurkha for long road trips?
• A: Yes, the Gurkha is well-suited for long road trips thanks to its comfortable seating, ample storage space, and rugged build quality.
6. Q: Does the Force Gurkha come with a warranty?
• A: Yes, Force Motors offers a standard warranty on the Gurkha, which varies depending on the region and local regulations.
Reference : http://www.forcegurkha.co.in
