Force Gurkha on sale in September 2014

The return of the Gurkha was a much discussed topic when the company showcased the vehicle to a selected group of journalists last year. Though the market launch was expected soon, it took almost a year for the off-roader’s entry into the market. A press release from Force Motors stated that the company will commence sales of the Force Gurkha from September 2014 onward.

Prasan Firodia, Managing Director, Force Motors said in a statement, “The feedback received from auto experts and select group of users during test drives has helped us further fine tune the Force Gurkha into an extremely capable off roader.”

The new off-road offering from Force Motors is powered by a 2.6-litre Mercedes OM 616 derived turbocharged engine mated to a five-speed transmission. The 2596cc engine develops 81bhp at 3200rpm and 230Nm of torque between 1800–2000rpm. Since the vehicle is a hardcore off-roader, it gets a four-wheel-drive system with high- and low-ration selector.

The Gurkha comes with differential locks for the front and rear axles. The distinctive ‘snorkel’ air-intake gives the vehicle a keenly off-road touch and ensures a supply of air to the engine especially while wading through water. A ground clearance of 210mm adds to the off-roading credentials of the vehicle. The Gurkha will sell in hard- and soft-top variants and will be offered with three colour options. Force Motors offers a warranty of 3 years or 3, 00,000km for Gurkha.