Force Gurkha 5-Door Variant: A Game-Changer In The Off-Road SUV Arena
Force Motors has long been teasing the arrival of its much-anticipated 5-door variant of the Gurkha, aimed at expanding its footprint in the competitive off-road SUV segment. With the impending launch, it”s set to rival the likes of the upcoming 5-door Mahindra Thar and the Maruti Jimny.
The development of the 5-door version of the Force Gurkha has been underway for quite some time now. Following the major overhaul of the standard 3-door model in 2021, Force Motors announced plans to introduce a larger 5-door variant. Since then, test mules of the 5-door Gurkha have been spotted on various occasions, hinting at its imminent arrival.
Recently, Force Motors sent out invitations to media houses for an event scheduled towards the end of April, hinting at a potential launch window for the 5-door Gurkha. Speculations suggest that the SUV could hit the market by early May 2024.
Accompanying the invitations was a teaser image of the 5-door Gurkha, offering a glimpse of its silhouette. True to its rugged nature, the vehicle retains the iconic boxy profile and upright pillars, complemented by a flat roofline. The teaser also showcases a generous greenhouse area divided into three window panels on each side, exuding a quintessential off-road charm.
In terms of visual enhancements, the 5-door Gurkha is expected to feature a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, a roof-mounted luggage rack, jerry cans, and a snorkel, elevating its adventure-ready appeal. While some of these elements may be offered as optional accessories, they undoubtedly add to the SUV”s rugged persona. Notable design updates include square-ish headlamps, replacing the circular units found on the 3-door model, along with potential revisions to the front and rear bumpers.
Under the hood, the 5-door Gurkha is anticipated to share the same powertrain as its 3-door counterpart, namely the Mercedes-sourced 2.6-litre diesel engine. Delivering 89 bhp and 250 Nm of torque, this engine is paired with a five-speed gearbox and equipped with a low-range transfer case for enhanced off-road capabilities. Mechanical locking differentials further augment its prowess in tackling challenging terrains.
Additionally, the 5-door Gurkha is expected to boast larger 18/17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels compared to the 16-inch wheels found on its 3-door sibling. The increased dimensions of the 5-door variant, along with potential revisions to the front and rear bumpers, are likely to contribute to its distinct visual appeal and enhanced road presence.
Overall, the imminent launch of the 5-door Force Gurkha signifies an exciting expansion of Force Motors” product portfolio, promising enthusiasts a formidable contender in the burgeoning off-road SUV segment. With its rugged design, proven performance, and uncompromising off-road capabilities, the 5-door Gurkha is poised to carve a niche for itself in the competitive automotive landscape.
