Force Gurkha : In the rugged world of off-road vehicles, a new contender has emerged to challenge the reign of the Mahindra Thar. The 2025 Force Gurkha has been launched with a clear mission: to become the ultimate off-road machine for adventure enthusiasts.
With its robust build, powerful performance, and a host of new features, the Force Gurkha is set to redefine the boundaries of off-road capabilities in the Indian market.
Force Gurkha Design: A Perfect Blend of Ruggedness and Modernity
The 2025 Force Gurkha retains its iconic boxy silhouette, a design that has become synonymous with serious off-roading. However, Force Motors has introduced subtle yet significant updates to enhance both its aesthetics and functionality:
Imposing Front Fascia: The Gurkha sports a wider grille with bold Force branding, flanked by circular LED headlamps that pay homage to its utilitarian roots while incorporating modern lighting technology.
Muscular Profile: Strong shoulder lines and pronounced wheel arches give the Gurkha a commanding presence, emphasizing its off-road credentials.
Functional Design Elements: Robust roof rails, chunky side steps, and a snorkel intake not only enhance the SUV’s rugged appeal but also improve its practicality for extreme off-road conditions.
LED Lighting: All-LED lighting, including headlamps, taillamps, and fog lamps, ensures excellent visibility in all conditions.
Color Options: The Gurkha is available in a range of colors, including the signature Olive Green, Earth Brown, and a new Midnight Black, allowing buyers to choose a look that matches their personality.
Force Gurkha Powerhouse Performance
At the heart of the 2025 Force Gurkha lies a powerplant that’s been engineered to conquer the most challenging terrains:
Engine Specifications:
2.6-liter Mercedes-derived FM2.6 CR diesel engine
Power output: 140 bhp (up from the previous 138 bhp)
Torque: 320 Nm
Transmission:
5-speed manual gearbox (standard)
New 6-speed automatic transmission option (introduced for 2025)
Four-Wheel Drive System:
Shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system with low-range transfer case
Manually locking front and rear differentials for extreme off-road situations
Performance Figures:
0-100 km/h: 15 seconds
Top Speed: 140 km/h
Fuel Efficiency:
Claimed mileage of 15-17 km/l, making it efficient for both on and off-road use
Force Gurkha Off-Road Prowess: Where the Gurkha Truly Shines
The 2025 Force Gurkha has been built from the ground up to tackle the most challenging off-road conditions:
Ground Clearance: An impressive 233 mm of ground clearance allows the Gurkha to clear obstacles with ease.
Water Wading Capacity: With a class-leading water wading depth of 700 mm, the Gurkha can ford through deep water crossings that would leave other SUVs stranded.
Approach and Departure Angles:
Approach angle: 35 degrees
Departure angle: 37 degrees
Rampover angle: 28 degrees
These angles give the Gurkha the ability to tackle steep inclines and declines without scraping its underbody.
Suspension System:
Independent front suspension with coil springs
Rigid axle with coil springs at the rear
The suspension setup is tuned to provide a balance of off-road articulation and on-road comfort
Tires and Wheels:
18-inch alloy wheels
255/65 R18 all-terrain tires provide excellent grip in various conditions
Off-Road Modes: The Gurkha now features selectable off-road modes, including Sand, Mud, and Rock, which optimize the vehicle’s systems for different terrains.
Force Gurkha Interior: Comfort Meets Functionality
While the Gurkha is built for the outdoors, Force Motors hasn’t neglected interior comfort and features:
Seating Configuration: Available in both 5-seater and 7-seater layouts, catering to different needs.
Premium Upholstery: Durable yet comfortable fabric seats with the option of leatherette upholstery in higher trims.
Infotainment System: A 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Digital Instrument Cluster: A fully digital instrument cluster provides all essential information at a glance.
Climate Control: Automatic climate control with roof-mounted rear AC vents ensures comfort in all weather conditions.
Storage Solutions: Multiple storage compartments, including a large glovebox and door pockets designed to hold 1-liter bottles.
Force Gurkha Advanced Technology Features
The 2025 Force Gurkha comes equipped with a range of technology features that enhance both convenience and safety:
Connected Car Technology: The new Force Connect app allows users to access vehicle information, remotely control certain functions, and receive real-time alerts.
360-Degree Camera: A surround-view camera system aids in both off-road navigation and urban parking scenarios.
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Ensures optimal tire pressure for safety and performance.
Hill Hold and Hill Descent Control: These features provide additional control and safety on steep inclines and declines.
Electronic Stability Program (ESP): Enhances vehicle stability in various driving conditions.
Force Gurkha Safety: A Top Priority
Force Motors has placed a strong emphasis on safety with the 2025 Gurkha:
Robust Chassis: Built on a ladder-frame chassis that provides excellent structural rigidity.
Airbags: Dual front airbags come as standard, with side and curtain airbags available in higher trims.
ABS with EBD: Ensures optimal braking performance in all conditions.
ISOFIX Child Seat Anchors: For the safety of younger passengers.
Impact-Sensing Door Unlock: Automatically unlocks doors in the event of a collision.
High-Strength Steel Body: The use of high-strength steel in key areas enhances occupant protection.
Variants and Pricing
The 2025 Force Gurkha is available in multiple variants to cater to different needs and budgets:
Base Model: Starting at ₹16.75 lakh
Mid-Range Variant: Priced around ₹18 lakh
Top-End Variant: Expected to be priced up to ₹20 lakh
(All prices are ex-showroom estimates)
Force Gurkha Challenging the Thar: How the Gurkha Stands Out
While the Mahindra Thar has long been the go-to choice for off-road enthusiasts, the 2025 Force Gurkha presents a compelling alternative:
Superior Water Wading: The Gurkha’s 700 mm water wading capacity outperforms the Thar’s 650 mm.
Differential Locks: The Gurkha offers both front and rear differential locks, while the Thar only provides a rear locking differential.
Spacious Interior: The Gurkha’s boxy design translates to more interior space, especially in the 7-seater configuration.
Unique Design: While the Thar has a more modern appearance, the Gurkha’s utilitarian design appeals to purists and those seeking a more rugged aesthetic.
Torque Advantage: The Gurkha’s 320 Nm of torque gives it an edge in low-speed off-road scenarios compared to the Thar’s 300 Nm.
Force Gurkha Market Impact and Future Prospects
The launch of the 2025 Force Gurkha has injected new energy into the off-road SUV segment. Its combination of robust build quality, advanced off-road features, and competitive pricing has positioned it as a serious challenger to the Mahindra Thar’s dominance.
Industry experts predict that the Gurkha’s entry will not only give buyers more choice but also push other manufacturers to innovate and improve their offerings.
This competition is likely to result in better products for consumers and growth in the off-road vehicle market.
Force Motors has also hinted at future plans for the Gurkha, including the possibility of an electric variant, showcasing the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of automotive technology while maintaining the Gurkha’s off-road heritage.
Force Gurkha Conclusion: A New Off-Road King in the Making?
The 2025 Force Gurkha represents a significant leap forward in the evolution of off-road vehicles in India. By combining traditional off-road capabilities with modern features and technology, Force Motors has created a vehicle that appeals to both hardcore enthusiasts and casual adventurers alike.
While it’s too early to declare a new king of the off-road, one thing is certain: the Force Gurkha has established itself as a formidable challenger to the Mahindra Thar.
Its launch has reinvigorated the segment, giving buyers a compelling alternative and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in an off-road SUV.
As the dust settles on this new rivalry, off-road enthusiasts are the real winners, with two excellent choices that cater to their adventurous spirits.
Whether the Force Gurkha will dethrone the Thar remains to be seen, but its entry has undoubtedly made the off-road SUV market more exciting and competitive than ever before.