Its more than a year when Force Motors launched their new Gurkha off-roader in the Indian market! However, its retail sales are yet to be kickstarted. Yes, you can not purchase the Gurkha from any showroom.
The reasons cited for the long delay are some technical issues which are being worked upon by Force engineers. Back in December 2013, we spotted a Gurkha mule which was being tested for NVH levels.
But, now in an update, it seems, Force Motors is ready with Gurkha and is planning to open its retail sales from next month. The company is calling prospect customers who have queried for the off-roader and informing about the same. But here comes the better word! Along with the opening of sales of Gurkha, Force may also launch it with a BS4 compliant engine.
Not that do we expect it to be any other engine but the same 2.6L Mercedes sourced OM616 turbocharged diesel engine which churns out 82PS of power output and 230Nm of torque in the BS3 guise. Any change in the official specs remains to be seen. This means, if you live in one of the most prominent cities of India which adhere to the BS4 norms, you can also go ahead and buy the new Gurkha.
If you are a little less aware of it, Gurkha is a hardcore off-roading vehicle which comes with differential locks and from our test drive at Force’s off-road track, we can tell you it is the best off-roader available in India under 10 lakhs, including Mahindra Thar. However, the weak aspect of Gurkha was its on-road behavior and this is where we believe, Force should have worked hard.
Do not miss to read our Exhaustive Review of Force Gurkha along with some scintillating pictures.
Related: Upcoming Force One LX Snapped; Comes With 4X4 & Limited Slip Differential
I do hope Force have done away with that ugly plasticky face. Gurkha looks best when it resembles its parent the G Wagon. B4 is good, but can we have a bit more oomph, please? A 110 bhp would do nicely, thank you.