- Force Motors has unveiled a 5-door version of the Gurkha SUV, offering a more spacious seven-seater layout compared to the existing 3-door model.
- It retains the boxy styling inspired by the Mercedes G-Class, featuring a longer wheelbase and a slightly updated interior with a digital instrument cluster.
- Power comes from a Mercedes-sourced 2.6-liter diesel paired with a 5-speed manual and a 4WD system with locking differentials.
Force Motors has finally unveiled the updated Gurkha range, which for the first time, includes a five-door bodystyle featuring a three-row seating layout. The rugged off-roader from India, which is unashamedly inspired by the Mercedes G-Class, has also received mild technology updates inside the cabin, and remains exclusively available with diesel power.
Starting with the new addition to the lineup, the five-door Force Gurkha retains the boxy styling of the existing model, with the longer body making it look even more like a G-Wagen. Measuring 4,390 mm (172.8 inches) long, the five-door version is a full 425 mm (16.7 inches) longer than the three-door sibling, with all of the extra length going into the 2,825 mm (111.2 inches) wheelbase.
More: Force Citiline Is A 10-Seater SUV From India That Looks Like An Old G-Class With A New Face
The front and rear ends retain their distinctive design, including the signature round LED headlights and unpainted plastic bumpers that match the wide fender extensions. The off-road stance is further accentuated by a 233 mm (9.2 inches) ground clearance, along with accessories like the snorkel, roof rack, and rear-mounted ladder. Completing the rugged look, the SUV is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with all-terrain tires.
Moving inside, both variants feature a larger 9-inch infotainment touchscreen which is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The new setup also includes a digital instrument cluster, though not as advanced as those found in modern vehicles from other manufacturers. Force Motors claims that the dashboard is covered by a car-like soft-touch material, but the overall design still reflects the budget-friendly character of the SUV.
More importantly, the longer body of the five-door Force Gurkha accommodates a three-row, seven-seater layout, enhancing its practicality. However, the compact footprint means there isn’t much room for luggage, especially with all seats in place. Safety equipment is limited to dual airbags, seatbelts, ABS, and a reversing camera.
Mercedes Power Under The Hood
The Force Gurkha range is offered with a 2.6-liter four-cylinder diesel powertrain that is sourced from Mercedes-Benz, producing 138 hp (103 kW / 140 PS) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. Power is transmitted to all four wheels exclusively via a five-speed manual gearbox and a 4WD system with front and rear locking differentials. As with all models from Force Motors, the Gurkha rides on a ladder-frame architecture, and benefits from multi-link coil suspension on both axles.
The updated Force Gurkha with the five-door option is set to go on sale in India soon. While pricing has not been announced, it is expected to start from around Rs 16.10-16.60 lakh, equivalent to approximately $19,000-20,000. Rivals in the segment include the smaller Suzuki Jimny 5-Door, and the upcoming Mahindra Thar Armada.
