The long-awaited unveiling of the 2024 Force Gurkha SUV has ignited fervent discussions among off-road enthusiasts, especially as it now offers both 3-door and 5-door configurations, directly challenging the reigning champion, the Mahindra Thar. In this detailed analysis, we delve into the specifications of these two iconic off-roaders, scrutinizing their dimensions, off-road capabilities, powertrain options, and anticipated pricing. Let’s embark on a journey to understand how these rugged machines stack up against each other in the fiercely competitive realm of off-road vehicles.
Dimensions and Off-road Stats
| Force Gurkha 3-door | Mahindra Thar |
|---|---|
| Length: 3965mm | 3985mm |
| Width: 1865mm | 1855mm |
| Height: 2080mm | 1844-1855mm |
| Wheelbase: 2400mm | 2450mm |
| Ground Clearance: 233mm | 226mm |
| Front/Rear Track: 1547mm/1490mm | 1520mm/1520mm |
| Turning Circle Diameter: 10 meters | 11.8 meters |
| Approach Angle: 39 degrees | 41.8 degrees |
| Departure Angle: 37 degrees | 36.8 degrees |
| Breakover Angle: 28 degrees | 27 degrees |
| Water Wading: 700mm | 650mm |
In this comparison, the Mahindra Thar, available only as a 3-door, is measured against the Force Gurkha 3-door variant. The Thar is slightly longer by 20mm, while the Gurkha is 10mm wider and significantly taller by over 225mm. Despite its shorter wheelbase, the Gurkha offers a wider front track. Notably, the Gurkha also boasts a shorter turning circle diameter and higher water wading capacity compared to the Thar.
Engine, Gearbox, and Suspension
| Force Gurkha 3-door | Mahindra Thar 2.2 | Mahindra Thar 1.5 |
|---|---|---|
| Type: 4-cyl, turbo-diesel | 4-cyl, turbo-diesel | 4-cyl, turbo-diesel |
| Capacity: 2596cc | 2184cc | 1497cc |
| Power: 140hp | 132hp | 119hp |
| Torque: 320Nm | 300Nm | 300Nm |
| Gearbox: 5-speed manual | 6-speed manual/6-speed auto | 6-speed manual |
| Front/Rear Suspension: Independent double wishbone with coil springs/Multi-link with pan hard rod & coil springs | Independent double wishbone with coil springs/Non-independent multi-link rigid axle & coil springs | Independent double wishbone with coil springs/Non-independent multi-link rigid axle & coil springs |
| Drive Layout: 4WD | 4WD | RWD |
| Front/Rear Differentials: Manual locking differential/Manual locking differential | Brake locking differential/Mechanical locking differential | Brake locking differential/NA |
The Force Gurkha is equipped with a Mercedes-sourced 2.6-litre diesel engine tuned to deliver 140hp and 320Nm torque, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox and 4WD. The Mahindra Thar offers a 2.2-litre diesel engine producing 132hp and 300Nm torque, available with both manual and automatic transmissions. Additionally, a smaller 1.5-litre diesel engine option is available with rear-wheel drive.
Prices
The Mahindra Thar diesel ranges from Rs 11.25 lakh for the RWD version to Rs 17.60 lakh for the top-end LX Earth Edition hard-top automatic variant. The Force Gurkha prices are yet to be announced.
This comparison highlights the nuanced differences between the Force Gurkha and Mahindra Thar, offering insight into their dimensions, off-road capabilities, powertrain options, and expected price ranges.
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