As a consumer, we need to know that competition between manufacturers is actually good for us. This is true in every industry and not just in automobiles. This means if there is no competition, there is no scope for improvement. And it is because of such competition that we have amazing machines like the Thar. What drove Mahindra to make the Thar so much better is undoubtedly the Force Gurkha.
Now with the competition getting so much better, Force Motors is forced to up their game and bring in a better and more capable challenger. With the 2021 Gurkha, Force Motors plans to do exactly the same and is leaving no stones unturned.
-
Beefier Design
The design has been updated and now the front looks even more like the Mercedes-AMG G63. Although they say looks are subjective, we feel it is on the better side of the spectrum. It is speculated that the new Gurkha is based on an updated Ladder Frame chassis that has been designed to meet the new crash test norms. From the several spy shots, we can conclude that it has retained the boxy design and even the boot-mounted spare wheel but will get revised bumpers, headlights with LED DRLs, new tail lamps and front grille.
It is expected to be launched in 3 and 5 door versions as well, just like the outgoing models.
-
Superior Performance
When it comes to performance, the exact numbers are yet to be confirmed. What is confirmed is that it will be powered by an updated 2.6-litre Diesel engine that will obviously comply with the BS6 norms. The peak power and torque figures are expected to be 115 bhp and 350 Nm respectively. The current Gurkha’s 2.2-litre, 140 hp diesel engine might not be seen on the new model.
Get your car serviced at GoMechanic
-
Refreshed Interiors
The interiors of the new Gurkha are also set to be completely new with a redesigned dashboard and more equipment. It is expected to either have an all-black or a dual-tone interior with better quality materials to give it a more upmarket feel. It will get a touchscreen infotainment system, updated instrument cluster with a digital multi-info display. The steering wheel is also new with a 3-spoke design. When it was showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo, the seating arrangement was quite different as it featured 6 seater configuration with 4 forward-facing seats, individual seats in the second row as well, and 2 jump seats facing each other in the third row.
-
Off-Road Capability
If there is one reason why this product will sell it will mostly be for its off-roading prowess. As stated earlier it is the toughest competitor for the Mahindra Thar and hence has to live up to that name. For this reason, Force is going all out and providing an independent double-wishbone and five-link suspension at the front and rigid-axle arrangement at the rear with coil springs all around. The four-wheel-drive versions will get a low range gearbox, with front and rear axle differential locks as standard.
-
Safety & Other Features
As said previously, the chassis has been designed to score better at the crash tests and along with it, the 2021 Force Gurkha is supposedly coming with tilt and telescopic adjustable steering, ABS, dual airbags, rear parking sensors and power windows.
-
Price & Launch date
The new 2021 Force Gurkha is expected to be priced in the 10-12 lakh (ex-showroom) range while its launch date was recently confirmed to be on September 15th, 2021.
