Mahindra Thar vs New Force Gurkha Spec Comparison: Which One Should You Buy?

We are set to witness a fierce battle in the Indian lifestyle off-road SUV segment. Force Motors has launched the new Gurkha, which comes in three-door and five-door versions. The Gurkha's 3-door model competes with the current Thar, while the SUV's 5-door variant goes up against the upcoming Mahindra Thar 5-door, which is scheduled to go on sale around August 15 this year. These SUVs will differ greatly in real life even though they appear to be quite similar on paper. Here's a detailed comparison between the new 3-door Gurkha and the on-sale Mahindra Thar to help you pick one as per your preferences.

Also Read: Force Gurkha 5-Door Review: Old School Brawn Meets New Age Comfort

Mahindra Thar vs New Force Gurkha Spec Comparison: Price Details

The Force Gurkha costs Rs 15.10 lakh and is available in a single variant. On the other hand, the 4X2 variant of the Thar starts at Rs 11.25 lakh and goes up to Rs 17.40 lakh. With its several drivetrain options and soft and hard top roof options, the Thar offers a lot more alternatives.

Mahindra Thar vs New Force Gurkha Spec Comparison: Design

The Mahindra Thar and the Force Gurkha have sturdy, functional designs that highlight their off-road prowess. When compared to the three-door Thar, the recently redesigned Gurkha has a far more practical design. Its overall proportions are far larger than those of the Thar, and it has a massive snorkel, a roof rack, and a rear metal stairway. The larger set of 18-inch alloy wheels is new for the three-door Gurkha. The SUV is otherwise identical to the previous-generation model. Contrarily, the Mahindra SUV has the recognisable Thar design, complete with a slatted grille and round halogen headlamps. Similar to the Gurkha 3-door, the Thar also rolls on 18-inch alloy wheels. 

Mahindra Thar vs New Force Gurkha Spec Comparison: Powertrain 

Mechanically, the 2.6-litre turbo-diesel engine that powers the 2024 Gurkha is sourced from Mercedes. It is currently rated for 138bhp of maximum power and 320Nm of peak torque. Furthermore, the unit comes with a five-speed manual gearbox and a four-wheel drive setup.

In comparison, the Thar's 2.2-litre diesel engine generates 130bhp and 300Nm and is available with both manual and automatic transmissions, while its smaller 1.5-litre engine makes 118bhp and comes with rear-wheel-drive only.

Both cars have transfer cases for switching between two-wheel and four-wheel drive modes. While the Thar's differentials are controlled electronically, the Gurkha's may be locked manually, giving it an advantage in off-road conditions.

Also Read: Mahindra Thar 5-Door to be Unveiled on August 15 in India: Here's What to Expect

Mahindra Thar vs New Force Gurkha Spec Comparison: Interior Layout and Features

Force Motors has redesigned the Gurkha three-door's interior in addition to the Gurkha five-door. A new 7-inch digital instrument gauge cluster and a larger 9-inch touchscreen are included. Except for these minor tweaks, the model's cabin appears nearly identical to the previous one.

However, the interior of the Thar three-door is much more appealing. It has a small touchscreen and uses a lot of hard plastics. But compared to the Gurkha, its quality is significantly superior. An infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen is standard on the Thar. Cruise control and manual air conditioning are further features.