Full expert breakdown
Hello car enthusiasts and prospective buyers! Deciding on your next car is a big deal, isn't it? You weigh in so many factors: how much it will cost, how safe it keeps your family, what the monthly maintenance will be like, if it has all the latest features, and of course, how reliable the company service is. It is a quest for the perfect balance, especially in India where roads and needs vary so much. Today, we are taking a deep dive into a truly unique offering that has been stirring quite a buzz: the new Force Gurkha 5 Door. Is this rugged adventure machine the right fit for your garage? Let us find out!
Main Highlights
Engine Specifications
The heart of the new Gurkha 5 Door is a robust engine designed for tough conditions:
- Engine Type: 2.6 Litre FM 2.6 CR CD Diesel Engine
- Maximum Power: 140 bhp (at 3200 rpm)
- Peak Torque: 320 Nm (between 1400-2800 rpm)
- Transmission: 5 speed Manual
- Drive System: Proper 4x4 with low range transfer case and manual differential locks on both front and rear axles.
Design Overview
The Gurkha 5 Door definitely turns heads with its no-nonsense, utilitarian charm.
- Exterior: It maintains the iconic, boxy silhouette inspired by classic off-roaders. You get those signature round LED headlamps with DRLs, a chunky grille, and a factory-fitted snorkel for impressive water wading capability. The upright stance, chunky tyres, and roof rack add to its rugged appeal. It looks ready for any adventure.
- Interior: Step inside, and you will find a more practical and surprisingly modern cabin compared to its predecessors. While it is built for durability, Force has added comfort and convenience. You can choose between a 7 seater configuration (2+3+2) or a more spacious 5 seater layout, potentially with captain seats in the middle row for enhanced comfort. The design is straightforward, functional, and ready to withstand rough usage.
Key Features
The Gurkha 5 Door comes equipped with a decent set of features for its segment:
- 9 inch Touchscreen Infotainment System
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Digital Instrument Cluster
- Power Windows
- Manual Climate Control
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
- Rear Parking Sensors and Camera
Ground Clearance
- The Force Gurkha 5 Door boasts an impressive 233 mm of ground clearance, making it excellent for tackling challenging terrains and overcoming obstacles.
Boot Space
- While Force Motors has not specified an exact single figure, the Gurkha 5 Door offers significantly more practical boot space than its 3-door sibling. With the third row of seats in use, space is limited, but folding them down frees up ample room for luggage, especially crucial for those adventure trips.
Dimensions
- Length: Approximately 4390 mm
- Width: Approximately 1865 mm
- Height: Approximately 2095 mm (including roof carrier)
- Wheelbase: Approximately 2825 mm
Safety Features
Safety is always a priority, and the Gurkha 5 Door comes with essential features:
- Dual Front Airbags
- Anti lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
- Rear Parking Sensors
- Reverse Camera
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
NCAP Rating Table
As of now, the Force Gurkha 5 Door has not yet been tested by either Bharat NCAP or Global NCAP. We advise prospective buyers to stay updated on official crash test results as and when they become available.
| Rating Agency | Adult Occupant Protection | Child Occupant Protection |
|---|---|---|
| Bharat NCAP | Not tested yet | Not tested yet |
| Global NCAP | Not tested yet | Not tested yet |
Rivals of Force Gurkha 5 Door
The Gurkha 5 Door competes in a niche but growing segment of lifestyle off-road SUVs. Its primary rivals include:
- Mahindra Thar 5 Door (upcoming)
- Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5 Door
How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)
Advantages:
- Unmatched Off road Capability: With its proper 4x4 system, low range, and manual differential locks (front and rear), the Gurkha 5 Door is a beast off the tarmac. It can go where few other SUVs dare.
- Rugged Build Quality: Built on a ladder frame chassis, it is designed to be tough and durable, ideal for rough Indian roads and extended use.
- Distinctive Road Presence: The unique, boxy design ensures it stands out in a sea of urban SUVs. It commands attention.
- More Practical Than 3 Door: The added doors and seating capacity (7 seater option) make it far more family friendly and versatile for daily use or long trips with friends.
- High Ground Clearance: 233mm of ground clearance means you rarely have to worry about scraping its belly.
Disadvantages:
- On road Refinement: While improved, it is still an off-roader at heart. Expect some body roll, slightly firm ride, and more engine noise compared to monocoque SUVs.
- Limited Service Network: Force Motors has a smaller service network compared to market leaders like Maruti Suzuki or Mahindra, which might be a concern in some regions.
- Features List: While it has essential modern features, it might miss out on some premium conveniences (like sunroof, ventilated seats, advanced driver aids) found in similarly priced mainstream SUVs.
- Fuel Efficiency: Being a heavy, rugged 4x4, its fuel economy might not be class leading, especially in city conditions.
Conclusion
The new Force Gurkha 5 Door is not just another SUV; it is a specialized tool for those who crave adventure and need a vehicle that can truly handle anything. If your priority is unmatched off road capability, a rugged build, and a distinctive road presence, all wrapped up in a more practical 5-door package, then the Gurkha 5 Door deserves a serious look. It might not be the most refined urban cruiser, but it is built to conquer the wild. Before making your final decision, we highly recommend taking it for a test drive to experience its capabilities firsthand. See if this true blue adventurer aligns with your lifestyle and needs!
