Force Motors has finally released the first teaser of the upcoming Gurkha 5-door SUV, which is anticipated to be launched by mid-2024. Currently, it is available in a 3-door version like the Mahindra Thar.
Force Gurkha 5-door – What To Expect?
Having been spotted multiple times during testing, the Gurkha 5-door will feature several fresh design elements over its 3-door counterpart, including new square headlamps instead of round units, larger 18-inch alloy wheels (the Gurkha 3-door gets 16-inch units), boxy rectangular windows, a side step for easier access to the cabin, and a roof rack to store luggage. It is expected to boast a 2825mm long wheelbase, making it 425mm longer than the 3-door version.
Inside, it is expected to feature a bench seat for three occupants in the middle row, whereas the last row will be offered with either a pair of captain seats or side-facing jump seats. Thus, the SUV will be available in 7- and 9-seater configurations, respectively. It could also be offered in a 5-seater version.
The Gurkha 5-door will also feature a shift-on-the-fly 4WD knob conveniently located next to the driver’s seat on the centre console. This differs from the Gurkha 3-door, which has separate front and rear diff-lock levers and a manually operated transfer case behind the gear lever.
Regarding features, the 5-door iteration will likely include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, power windows, manual AC with rear AC vents, dual-front airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, ESC, and a rearview camera.
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Mercedes-Sourced Engine
Powering the 5-door Gurkha off-roader is expected to be the same Mercedes-sourced 2.6-litre diesel engine as its smaller wheelbase version that makes 91PS of max power and 215Nm of peak torque. It comes mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Equipped with front and rear manual locking differentials (MLD), front and rear anti-roll bars, and an air-intake snorkel, it offers a water-wading capacity of 700mm. However, the larger dimensions of the 5-door version may impact its approach, departure, and break-over angles.
Rivals
In the off-road SUV segment, the Force Gurkha faces competition from the Mahindra Thar, which is also expected to receive a longer-wheelbase version this year. It can also be seen as an alternative to the Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
