We all know that Force Motors is working on the next-generation Gurkha off-roader, which was first showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo. While it was expected to launch last year, the COVID19 pandemic played a wet blanket. But now, the official images of 2021 Force Gurkha have been surfaced on the webs ahead of its expected launch later this year.
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The leaked images revealed the exterior styling of the upgraded Gurkha, which is typically a blend of retro and modern-day design elements. While it has been redesigned completely, it retains its classy Mercedes G Wagon-inspired boxy styling. It features refreshed round-shaped headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lights (DRLs), giving it a premium touch. It also gets a new single slat grille (incorporating Force logo at the center) and renewed bumper design with round-shaped fog lamps. However, the upright clamshell-shaped hood, racked A-pillar, front fender-mounted winkers, snorkel, squared-out wheel arches with heavy bottom line cladding, and the tailgate-mounted spare wheel will remind you of the outgoing model.
The updated Gurkha gets a dual-tone roof paint job for the first time. There're also fixed side glasses for rear rows instead of slider windows seen on the previous generation models. One can also notice a roof-mounted luggage carrier in the images, which the carmaker may offer as an accessory with the SUV.
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Going by the previous spy images, the Gurkha will get a completely redesigned cabin with notable elements such as an all-black cabin, circular air-con vents, three-spoke steering wheel, A-pillar mounted grab rail, a glove-box with key lock function, captain seats in the second-row, and side-facing jump seats in the third row. In terms of features, it is expected to get a touchscreen infotainment system, front power windows, manual air conditioner, alloy wheels, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, etc.
The new Force Gurkha is expected to be powered by a BS6-compliant 2.6-liter diesel engine that produces 90PS and 260Nm. The engine is likely to be offered with a 5-speed manual gearbox. A 4×4 drivetrain is also likely to be offered as standard, along with a low range transfer case and manually locking front & rear differentials. It could also get a 140PS 2.2-liter diesel engine at a later stage.
In the Indian market, the updated Gurkha will rival the second-generation Mahindra Thar and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny. However, it won't be easy for the Force Gurkha to sustain against the Mahindra's off-roader. But in terms of pricing, the new Gurkha could undercut the Thar, which retails from Rs 12.11 lakh to Rs 14.16 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). However, there are rumors that Mahindra will soon launch an affordable entry-level variant of the Thar SUV. Click here for more details.
