Force Motors India has released a new teaser image of the next-generation Gurkha off-roader, suggesting that its launch is just around the corner. Earlier, the brand has also confirmed that the potential Mahindra Thar rival will hit the markets in the third quarter of 2021.
The all-new Force Gurkha was first showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo, and its multiple spy shots during testing and leaked brochure images have already confirmed that its final model will look exactly the same as the previewed model. Force claims that it will feature a complete new body-works that will meet the latest crash test & safety norms.
The new Force Gurkha will be underpinned on an all-new ladder frame chassis. On the styling front, it gets a revised appearance with a single-slat grille, round LED headlamps with integrated LED DRLs, reworked bumpers with new fog lamp assembly, a large fixed side glass for the rear occupants, and LED tail lamps. It will also come in a dual-tone paint scheme for the very first time. While all these elements give it a modern touch, it retains its iconic Mercedes G-Wagon-inspired boxy & upright silhouette.
The cabin of the Force Gurkha has also been overhauled, featuring an all-black theme with captain seats in the middle-row and side-facing jump seats in the third row. On the features front, it gets an aftermarket infotainment system, front power windows, manual AC with heater, multi-info display, lockable glove-box, dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, optional alloy wheels, and rear parking sensors.
The 2021 Force Gurkha is expected to be powered by a 2.6-liter diesel engine (90PS/260Nm), paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. It could also get a more powerful 140PS 2.2-liter diesel unit. Besides, a 4X4 drivetrain with a low-range transfer case and manual locking differentials (for both front & rear axel) will be offered as standard fitments.
We reckon the new Gurkha will be priced between Rs 9 lakh to Rs 12 lakh (ex-showroom) and will lock horn with the second-gen Mahindra Thar and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
