Introduction
Force Motors has recently unveiled significant upgrades to its three-door SUV, the Gurkha, equipped with a more powerful 2.6-litre diesel engine. In this article, we delve into a detailed comparison between the revamped Gurkha and its formidable competitor, the Mahindra Thar.
Design and Dimensions
Both the Mahindra Thar and Force Gurkha draw inspiration from renowned off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler and Mercedes-Benz G-Class. While the Thar exhibits modern charm, the Gurkha’s towering presence sets it apart. Here’s how they measure up:
- Length: Thar – 3985 mm, Gurkha – 3965 mm
- Width: Thar – 1820 mm, Gurkha – 1865 mm
- Height: Thar (with hard top) – 1844 mm, Gurkha (without roof rack) – 2080 mm
- Wheelbase: Thar – 2450 mm, Gurkha – 2400 mm
Interior and Features
The Mahindra Thar boasts a more contemporary interior with superior dashboard design and features compared to the Gurkha. However, the Gurkha offers better rear seat ingress with its captain seat layout and boot access.
Feature Comparison:
- Infotainment System: Thar – 7-inch touchscreen, Gurkha – 9-inch touchscreen
- Power Windows: Both equipped
- Climate Control: Thar – Manual, Gurkha – Manual
- Instrument Cluster: Thar – Analog with multi-info display, Gurkha – Fully digital
- Steering Adjustment: Thar – Tilt-only, Gurkha – Tilt and telescopic
- Cruise Control: Thar – Yes, Gurkha – No
- Keyless Entry: Both equipped
- Steering Mounted Controls: Thar – Yes, Gurkha – No
- Connectivity: Both support Android Auto and Apple CarPlay (wired)
- Safety Features: Both equipped with dual airbags, ABS with EBD, etc.
Powertrain
While the Thar offers multiple engine options, including turbo-petrol, the Gurkha comes with a single diesel engine. Here’s a breakdown:
- Thar Engines: 1.5L diesel, 2.2L diesel, 2L turbo-petrol
- Gurkha Engine: 2.6L diesel
- Transmission: Thar – Manual and automatic, Gurkha – Manual only
Off-road Capabilities
Both SUVs excel in off-road performance, with slight variations in key metrics:
- Approach Angle: Thar – 41.2 degrees, Gurkha – 39 degrees
- Departure Angle: Thar – 36 degrees, Gurkha – 37 degrees
- Ramp Breakover Angle: Thar – 26.2 degrees, Gurkha – 28 degrees
- Ground Clearance: Thar – 226 mm, Gurkha – 233 mm
- Water Wading Capacity: Gurkha offers superior capability due to factory-fitted snorkel and manual differential locks.
Price The Mahindra Thar is competitively priced between Rs 11.25 lakh to 17.60 lakh, while the Force Gurkha comes at Rs 16.75 lakh (ex-showroom).
Conclusion
Despite the enhancements in the Force Gurkha 3-door, the Mahindra Thar emerges as the winner, offering a plethora of features, diverse powertrain options, and commendable off-road capabilities.
