It seems that Force Motors is all set to bring out the new iteration of its best selling off-roading SUV and Mahindra Thar’s sole competitor the Force Gurkha as recently a fully camouflaged test mule of the all-new 2020 Force Gurkha BS6 was spotted testing somewhere in Maharashtra.
The 2020 Force Gurkha BS6 first made its debut at the Auto Expo 2020 and was expected to launch by April but due to the on-going Coronavirus pandemic, the launch was then pushed to mid-2020. And now after things are slowly and steadily getting back to normal Force has resumed the final stages of testing for the upcoming Mahindra Thar rival.
What all has changed on the all-new 2020 Force Gurkha?
Although the test mule was fully camouflaged we still know how the final looks like as it has already been showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo but nevertheless on the new 2020 Gurkha has not changed that much but now it will feature LED DRLs which have been integrated into its signature round headlamps, a revised front and rear bumper giving the boxy off-roader a sleeker look.
As stated earlier it more or less looks the same but still features some subtle upgrades on the outside which includes a new tailgate and three-part windshield. The 2020 Gurkha is also slightly taller than the outgoing model allowing it to have a higher approach and departure angles. Additionally, its taller stance will only add a few more points to its solid off-road capability.
Coming to the inside, it is expected that Force Motors is planning to give it’s interior a total revamp including a new sports-themed dashboard layout alongside a much-needed touchscreen infotainment system, new upholstery and rumoured bench-style 2nd-row seats.
Are there any major changes in its engine and transmission?
A simple and clear answer to this question is a solid YES!. The all-new 2020 Force Gurkha BS6 will get a new 2.6-litre four-cylinder diesel engine unit capable of churning 90 hp with a peak torque of 200 Nm which is just enough to do the job.
The engine is expected to come paired to a 5-speed manual unit and all the serious off-road enthusiasts can go for its 4×4 system with a low-ratio transfer case. Moreover, Force is also likely to make some additional off-roading accessories including its signature snorkel, skid plates, alloy-wheels, winch and many more.
How capable is the 2020 Force Gurkha?
Safety features on the next-gen Force Gurkha will mostly be focused on its capability to go off-road. Force will employ the use of a multi-link suspension system which is better than a generic suspension system providing better cushioning. It will also have a separate off-road gear allowing it the driver to control the car freely without worrying about gear shifts.
Must Read: 4 Most-Hyped (and awaited) Off-Road SUVs in India
Expected Price & Rivals
Talking about its price we can expect a subtle increase in its price. Currently, the starts at around ₹ 10.75 Lakh and goes upto ₹ 13.3 Lakh.
Now coming to its rivals as of now the Force Gurkha only has 1 competitor the Mahindra Thar which comes within its price range. However, it does act as a strong competitor to the infamous Tata SUMO gold, Mahindra Bolero and the upcoming Maruti Suzuki Jimny.
Suggested Read: Confirmed! 2020 Mahindra Thar to Launch in Early September/October