The Force Gurkha 5 Door, launched by Force Motors in 2024, is a rugged, off-road-focused SUV designed to cater to adventure enthusiasts and those seeking a versatile vehicle capable of conquering diverse terrains. Building on the legacy of its 3-door predecessor, this 5-door variant introduces enhanced practicality with additional seating and doors, making it a compelling option for families and off-roaders alike. With its unmistakable boxy design, inspired by the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the Gurkha 5 Door blends raw, utilitarian aesthetics with modern upgrades, positioning it as a standout in India’s growing off-road SUV market. Force Motors, an Indian manufacturer renowned for its durable vehicles, has aimed to widen the Gurkha’s appeal by equipping it with a more powerful engine, updated interiors, and a host of features tailored for both city commutes and extreme off-road adventures.
This SUV is built to dominate challenging landscapes, boasting best-in-class ground clearance, exceptional water-wading capability, and a robust 4×4 drivetrain. While it retains its hardcore off-road DNA, the addition of two extra doors and a third row of seats signals Force Motors’ intent to make the Gurkha more family-friendly without compromising its core identity. Competing directly with the likes of the Mahindra Thar 5 Door and Maruti Suzuki Jimny, the Gurkha 5 Door enters a fiercely contested segment where off-road capability, pricing, and practicality are key battlegrounds. In this detailed product overview, we’ll explore its technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and an in-depth analysis of what sets this vehicle apart, along with a comparison to its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Force Gurkha 5 Door is powered by a single engine option and comes equipped with features that emphasize its off-road prowess and rugged reliability. Below is a tabular representation of its technical specifications, sourced from reputable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, ensuring accuracy as of March 15, 2025.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.6L Mercedes-derived FM 2.6 CR Diesel Engine |
| Displacement | 2596 cc |
| Max Power | 138.08 bhp @ 3200 rpm (140 PS as per some sources) |
| Max Torque | 320 Nm @ 1400-2600 rpm |
| No. of Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive) with Shift-on-the-Fly |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Mileage (ARAI) | 12 kmpl (claimed, varies by real-world conditions) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63.5 liters |
| Ground Clearance | 233 mm |
| Water Wading Capacity | 700 mm |
| Approach Angle | 39° |
| Departure Angle | 37° |
| Rampover Angle | 28° |
| Gradeability | 35° |
| Turning Radius | 6.3 meters |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 4390 mm x 1865 mm x 2095 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2825 mm |
| Tyre Size | 255/65 R18 (All-Terrain Radial Tubeless) |
| Suspension (Front) | Independent with Coil Springs, Hydraulic Telescopic Shock Absorbers, Anti-Roll Bar |
| Suspension (Rear) | Multi-Link with Pan Hard Rod, Coil Springs, Hydraulic Telescopic Shock Absorbers, Anti-Roll Bar |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Disc / Drum |
| Seating Capacity | 7 (2nd row bench, 3rd row captain seats) |
| Boot Space | Limited (specific capacity not officially stated, reduced with 3rd row up) |
These specifications highlight the Gurkha 5 Door’s capability to tackle tough terrains while offering a practical layout for passengers. The 4×4 system with manually locking differentials (front and rear) and a low-range transfer case ensures exceptional off-road performance, while the updated engine delivers improved power over previous iterations.
Variants
The Force Gurkha 5 Door is currently offered in a single variant, simplifying the buying decision for customers. Below is a table detailing the variant as of its launch in 2024:
| Variant Name | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Gurkha 5 Door BS6.2 7-Seater MT | 9-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, dual airbags, TPMS, manual AC, power windows, 4WD |
Unlike some competitors that offer multiple trims, Force Motors has opted for a straightforward approach, packing the Gurkha 5 Door with essential off-road and comfort features in its sole variant. This strategy keeps the focus on its core strengths—durability and off-road capability—while avoiding complexity in the lineup.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Force Gurkha 5 Door varies across metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and other on-road costs. The ex-showroom price is consistent nationwide, but on-road prices reflect local taxes and fees. Below is a table of approximate on-road prices in key metro cities as of March 15, 2025, based on data from CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | On-Road Price (₹) (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| New Delhi | 18,00,000 | 21,41,635 |
| Mumbai | 18,00,000 | 21,67,635 |
| Bangalore | 18,00,000 | 22,35,000 |
| Chennai | 18,00,000 | 21,85,635 |
| Kolkata | 18,00,000 | 21,50,000 |
Note: On-road prices include RTO charges (e.g., ₹2,25,000 in Delhi), insurance (around ₹96,678-₹1,00,000), and other fees. These are introductory prices, and Force Motors may adjust them based on demand or additional offers.
About the Force Gurkha 5 Door
Design and Exterior
The Force Gurkha 5 Door retains the rugged, boxy silhouette that has defined the Gurkha lineage since its inception. Its design is unapologetically utilitarian, drawing inspiration from the Mercedes-Benz G-Class with its upright stance, squared-off wheel arches, and minimalist yet purposeful lines. The extended wheelbase (2825 mm compared to the 3-door’s 2400 mm) accommodates the additional doors and third row, giving it a more imposing presence on the road. The front fascia features circular LED headlights with integrated DRLs, a bold rectangular grille bearing the “Gurkha” moniker, and a chunky bumper with fog lamps. The air intake snorkel, a signature element, not only enhances its rugged appeal but also supports its impressive 700 mm water-wading capacity.
From the side, the extra doors and larger rear windows distinguish it from the 3-door model, while the 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires reinforce its off-road readiness. The rear design includes a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, a ladder for roof access, and LED tail lights, maintaining a functional aesthetic. Available in four colors—Red, Green, White, and Black—the Gurkha 5 Door exudes a commanding road presence that appeals to those who value toughness over refinement.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Force Gurkha 5 Door offers a mix of rugged simplicity and modern upgrades, though it falls short of the polish seen in mainstream SUVs. The cabin is spacious, with seating for seven arranged in a 2+3+2 configuration—bench seats in the second row and captain seats in the third. While the headroom is generous (described as “XXXL” by some reviewers), the middle row’s low seating position results in a knees-up posture for average-height adults (around 5’8”), compromising long-journey comfort. The third row, while a welcome addition, further limits knee room and recline angle in the second row, making it better suited for shorter trips or children.
The dashboard layout remains utilitarian, with a midnight black soft-touch finish and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A fully digital instrument cluster provides essential driving data, including tyre pressure, speed, and distance traveled. However, the steering wheel—borrowed from Force’s commercial vehicles—feels oversized and truck-like, interfering with legroom for taller drivers. Other interior elements, like AC vents and armrest levers, have sharp edges, reflecting a lack of refinement. Despite these shortcomings, features like power windows for all doors, roof-mounted AC vents for rear passengers, and mobile charging points add a layer of convenience.
Performance and Off-Road Capability
At the heart of the Force Gurkha 5 Door lies a 2.6-liter Mercedes-derived diesel engine, now tuned to deliver 140 PS and 320 Nm of torque—an upgrade over earlier models. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission and a full-time 4WD system, it offers robust low-end grunt ideal for off-roading. The shift-on-the-fly 4×4 system, combined with manually locking differentials on both axles, ensures the Gurkha can tackle steep inclines (up to 35°), deep water (700 mm), and uneven terrain with ease. Its suspension—independent coil springs at the front and a multi-link setup with a Pan Hard rod at the rear—absorbs rough patches effectively, making it one of the most comfortable ladder-frame SUVs on broken roads.
On highways, however, the Gurkha’s floaty ride and vague steering become apparent, limiting its appeal as a high-speed cruiser. The turning radius of 6.3 meters also makes it cumbersome in tight urban spaces. Fuel efficiency, rated at 12 kmpl (ARAI), drops in real-world conditions, especially during off-road use, but the 63.5-liter fuel tank provides decent range for long adventures.
Features and Safety
The Force Gurkha 5 Door balances its off-road focus with modern amenities. Key features include a 9-inch touchscreen, a digital driver’s display, manual AC with rear vents, and power windows. Safety is addressed with dual front airbags, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), ABS with EBD, and a full metal body structure. However, it lacks advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and has not been crash-tested by Global NCAP, leaving its safety credentials unverified.
Driving Experience
Driving the Force Gurkha 5 Door is an exercise in contrasts. Off-road, it shines with unmatched capability, gliding over rocks, mud, and water with a sense of invincibility. In the city, its size and steering quirks demand adjustment, but the commanding view over the bonnet adds to its appeal. Critics note gear-shifting issues (e.g., from 1st to 2nd) and weak brakes, though these are anecdotal and may vary by unit. At speeds above 80 km/h, performance tapers off, reinforcing its off-road-first ethos.
Market Positioning and Practicality
Priced at ₹18 lakh (ex-showroom), the Force Gurkha 5 Door targets buyers seeking a purpose-built off-roader with added practicality. Its 7-seater layout broadens its appeal, but limited boot space (with the third row up) and a dated interior may deter family buyers expecting SUV versatility. Service network limitations and fewer showroom outlets compared to rivals like Mahindra also pose challenges.
Close Competitors
The Force Gurkha 5 Door faces stiff competition in India’s off-road SUV segment. Here’s how it stacks up against its closest rivals:
Mahindra Thar 5 Door (Upcoming)
The Mahindra Thar 5 Door, expected in 2025, will directly challenge the Gurkha with a similar 5-door layout and off-road focus. Priced around ₹15-20 lakh (estimated), it offers petrol and diesel options, an automatic transmission (unlike the Gurkha’s manual-only), and a more refined interior with features like a sunroof and ADAS. The Thar’s wider service network and brand loyalty give it an edge, though the Gurkha’s superior water-wading (700 mm vs. Thar’s 650 mm) and locking differentials may appeal to hardcore off-roaders.
Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5 Door
The Maruti Suzuki Jimny 5 Door, priced at ₹12.74-15 lakh (ex-showroom), is a lighter, more affordable alternative with a 1.5L petrol engine (103 PS, 134 Nm) and 4WD. It offers better fuel efficiency (16.94 kmpl) and a compact footprint, making it easier to maneuver in cities. However, its ground clearance (210 mm) and off-road angles are less impressive than the Gurkha’s, and it lacks the raw power and ruggedness of its rival.
Mahindra Scorpio N
While not a direct off-road competitor, the Mahindra Scorpio N (₹13.6-24.5 lakh) appeals to buyers seeking a rugged 7-seater SUV. With petrol/diesel options, automatic variants, and a 4WD option in top trims, it offers greater versatility and modern features like a sunroof and 8-inch infotainment. Its monocoque construction prioritizes on-road comfort over off-road extremes, contrasting with the Gurkha’s ladder-frame toughness.
Comparison Insights
The Force Gurkha 5 Door excels in off-road capability and pricing parity with the Thar 5 Door, but its lack of an automatic gearbox, dated interior, and limited service reach put it at a disadvantage. The Jimny offers affordability and efficiency, while the Scorpio N caters to a broader audience with its blend of ruggedness and refinement. The Gurkha’s niche lies in its uncompromising off-road focus, appealing to purists willing to overlook its quirks.
Final Thoughts!
The Force Gurkha 5 Door is a bold evolution of a cult classic, blending enhanced practicality with its legendary off-road prowess. Its single-variant approach, robust 4WD system, and competitive pricing make it a strong contender for adventure seekers. However, its utilitarian interior, limited features, and urban driving challenges may limit its mass appeal. Against competitors like the Mahindra Thar 5 Door and Maruti Jimny, it holds its own as a no-nonsense off-roader, but Force Motors must address refinement and service gaps to truly broaden its footprint. For those who prioritize capability over comfort, the Gurkha 5 Door remains a compelling choice in India’s SUV landscape.
