Force Motors has launched the new Gurkha in the Indian market. The 2013 Force Gurkha will be retailed through Force Motors passenger car dealerships, which was setup to sell the Force One SUV. The Force Gurkha is powered by a 2600cc, OM616 diesel engine. This motor is also seen in a few other Force Motors’ vehicles and has been sourced from Mercedes-Benz. This oil burner produces 82 PS of power at 3200 RPM and 230 NM of torque between 1800-2000 RPM, mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox with Hi – Lo option on transfer case. Power goes to all wheels via a 4-wheel drive system. However the new Force Gurkha is only BS III compliant and the company will bring out a BS IV compliant version sometime later this year with improved power figures.
The Force Gurkha has a reinforced tubular chassis with independent front suspension and a solid torsion bar. The vehicle comes with factory fitted air conditioner and power steering. Other features include front facing reclining seats, instrument cluster and dual tone interiors. The Force Gurkha is based on the Mercedes Gelandewagen (G–Wagon) which costs a whooping Rs. 1 crore plus in the Indian market. The Gurkha comes with three locking differentials which makes it very capable off-road. Thus Force Motors has called the Gurkha as the world’s first E.O.V. (Extreme Off-roader Vehicle).
2013 Force Gurkha Prices (ex-showroom, Delhi) –
Gurkha 4X2 – Rs 6.25 lakhs (soft top)
Gurkha 4X4 – Rs 8.35 lakhs (soft top)
Gurkha 4X4 – Rs 8.50 lakhs (hard top)
With a ground clearance of 210 mm and a high mounted snorkel air intake, the Force Gurkha has best in class water fording height. It is available in three colors with body graphics. The company is also offering a range of accessories on the vehicle. Force Motors has set a target of selling 1000 units of the Gurkha in the first fiscal year. The Force Gurkha competes with the Mahindra Thar which is available with a BSIV compliant engine as well. Both vehicles are offered in a niche segment, where buyers are looking for a rugged weekend vehicle to get dirty (go off-road).
