Reports on the internet suggest that the Force Gurkha is in its final testing phases and this time around a leaked document confirms that the new offroader could be launched in India very soon
The BS6 Force Gurkha was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo and it was expected to make its debut in the coming months. With the global pandemic coming into the picture, the launch of the off-roader was tentatively postponed. This time around, official marketing pictures of the BS6 Force Gurkha have been leaked online hinting at an India launch. The new BS6 Gurkha will be Force’s contender against the Mahindra Thar that has gulped a market share in its own niche space.
The new Force Gurkha does not only comply with the new current stringent BS6 norms but also, with the current crash-test norms, as well as, the pedestrian safety norms. That is the courtesy of a reworked 2.6-litre diesel engine and an updated body on frame chassis. The aforementioned engine puts out 89bhp and will be offered with a manual gearbox. The Mahindra Thar, in its second-gen avatar, is offered with a choice of a petrol engine as well and both the powertrains come with an option of an automatic gearbox. The drivetrain is expected to be the same transfer-case 4x4 with mechanically locking front and rear differentials.
Moving to the styling, you notice Force has followed the “Don’t fix what’s not broken” philosophy. The fascia is a more evolved version of the SUV it replaces and that resembles the Mercedes-Benz G-Class from the yesteryears. The headlamps continue to be circular units with LED-DRL inserts. The bumpers on either end have been redesigned to offer an improved approach and departure angle. The new Force Gurkha equipped with the accessories in the pictures that were leaked could be offered as an optional extra. The list of accessories could include a roof rack, snorkel, and a stepping board.
The prices are expected to be at par with Mahindra Thar between Rs 11-14 lakh (ex-showroom). It is uncertain at the moment if Force will launch the Gurkha in two variants – Explorer and Expedition – as before. But going by the pictures unveiled, it seems like Force will continue with its four-seater variant for now. And bring in the longer version at a later date.
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