Highlights:-
Force is developing a 5-door version of Gurkha for increased practicality.
No major design, dimensions, or feature-related changes are expected.
The engine option for the 5-door model should be the same 90PS 2.6-liter diesel unit.
Force is yet to share any official words on 5-door Gurkha.
Also Read: Five New Maruti Suzuki SUVs Are In Works Including Next-Gen Vitara Brezza, Jimny, And Creta-Rival
In September last year, the new-generation Force Gurkha made its arrival to the Indian market, albeit in a 3-door avatar. Now, the carmaker is working on its 5-door version, which has now been spied testing for the first time.
Going by the spy video, the 5-door Gurkha seems to carry most of the exterior bits from the three-door SUV. The flat rear-end of the off-roader seems unchanged, and it continues to sport the spare tire mounted to the tailgate. While the front and side profiles aren't clearly visible in the video, we do not expect any major design changes other than just an additional pair of doors. The interior, on the other hand, is also likely to offer the same rugged design with basic comforts like a manual air conditioning system, touchscreen infotainment system, and power windows, etc. Dimension-wise, the SUV is likely to remain unchanged.
Talking about the seating configurations, the 5-door Gurkha is expected to get more practical 6-and 8-seating options, while the ongoing Gurkha has a 4-seat layout, featuring two captain seats in the second row. However, buyers can install side-facing seats (available as an accessory) in the boot for extra occupancy.
Underneath the hood, the 5-seater Force Gurkha is likely to retain its Mercedes-derived 2.6-liter diesel engine (90PS/260Nm), paired with a 5-speed manual transmission along with a 4×4 drivetrain with a low-range transfer case to help the SUV to conquer tricky terrains.
The more practical Force Gurkha will bear some premium over the ongoing model, which retails from Rs 13.59 lakh (ex-showroom) onwards. Once launched, it will continue to rival the Mahindra Thar and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny. Mahindra is also likely to introduce the 5-door version of Thar by the next year.
