Force Motors has recently released a teaser video of the next-generation Gurkha off-roader with a caption – ''We can totally understand your excitement! We're almost there! #comingsoon”.
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The new-gen Gurkha was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo just before the pandemic thrashed India. While the carmaker was supposed to launch the new Gurkha last year, some unknown reasons put its arrival on hold. However, now the teaser video suggests its imminent launch. In fact, its brochure images were also leaked a few weeks ago on the web, revealing the exterior design.
Compared to the previous-generation model, the 2021 Force Gurkha has undergone subtle changes. It will feature new body-works that will meet the latest crash test and safety norms. Underpinned on an all-new ladder-on-frame chassis, it gets a revised design with notable elements like an upright front with 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, LED tail lamps, black-color plastic cladding around the vehicle, and dual-tone roof for the very first time. It will continue to retain its G-Wagon-like silhouette.
Inside, it will get a new dashboard, featuring a dual-tone black-&-brown theme. As for features, it will be offered with an aftermarket touchscreen infotainment system, front power windows, manual AC, lockable glove-box, captain seats in the second-row, and side-facing jump seats in the third row. Safety will be taken care of by dual front airbags, ABS with EBD, parking sensors, seatbelt reminder, and more.
Underneath the bonnet, we expect the new Gurkha to be powered by a 2.6-liter diesel engine that puts out 90PS of max power and 230Nm of peak torque. The engine will be mated to a 5-speed manual transmission along with the 4×4 transfer case, a low-range option, and locking differentials on both axles. Besides, it could also get a more powerful 2.2-liter diesel engine (140PS/321Nm) at a later stage.
As far as the pricing is concerned, the new-generation Force Gurkha will definitely command a significant price premium over its BS4 model, which retailed from Rs 9.99 lakh to Rs 13.30 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi) before discontinuation. As before, it will resume its fight with the Mahindra Thar and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
