Introduction
The Force Gurkha is one of the most rugged and purpose-built off-road SUVs available in India. It is designed for buyers who want true four-wheel-drive capability instead of flashy features. The Gurkha focuses on strength, durability and real off-road performance. In a market where many SUVs are mostly urban, the Force Gurkha stands out as a serious adventure vehicle.
In this detailed Force Gurkha review for 2025, we cover its design, engine, performance, off-road capability, comfort, safety, mileage and overall value for Indian buyers. The language is simple, sentences are short, and the content is easy to understand.
Quick Specification Table
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Body Type | Ladder frame off-road SUV |
| Engine | 2.6 litre turbo diesel |
| Transmission | Manual |
| Drive Type | 4×4 with low range |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Ground Clearance | High |
| Mileage | Average for 4×4 diesel |
| Safety | Dual airbags, ABS, EBD |
| Ideal For | Off-road driving, adventure use |
Force Gurkha Position in the Indian SUV Market
The Force Gurkha competes in a niche segment. It targets buyers who prefer rough terrain driving over city luxury. It is often compared with the Mahindra Thar and Jeep off-road SUVs. However, the Gurkha keeps a more traditional approach. It uses a ladder frame chassis, a proper 4×4 system, and minimal electronics.
This makes it popular among off-road enthusiasts, mountain region users, forest officials and adventure tour operators. The Gurkha is built to survive difficult roads and harsh usage.
Design and Exterior Styling
The Force Gurkha design is bold and boxy. It looks tough from every angle. The front has a strong grille with round headlamps. The bumper is high and solid, which helps during off-road climbs. The bonnet sits tall, giving the driver a commanding road view.
From the side, the SUV looks upright and muscular. The large wheel arches house off-road ready tyres. Ground clearance is high, which helps in rocky areas and deep water crossings. At the rear, the spare wheel is mounted on the tailgate. This adds to the classic off-road SUV look.
The overall design focuses on function rather than style. It clearly shows that the Gurkha is built for adventure.
Interior Layout and Cabin Experience
Inside the Force Gurkha, the cabin design is simple and practical. The dashboard layout is straightforward. The materials used are durable and easy to clean. This suits off-road usage where dust and mud are common.
The driver seat offers a high seating position. This improves visibility on highways and trails. The seats provide decent support for long drives. Rear seat space is adequate for adults on short and medium journeys. For long highway trips, the upright seating may feel firm.
Storage spaces inside the cabin are basic. There are door pockets and small holders for daily items. The interior is not luxurious, but it is functional and tough.
Also Read Audi A8 2025 Review – Quiet Luxury, High Tech and Executive Comfort for India
Engine, Gearbox and Performance
The Force Gurkha uses a 2.6 litre turbo diesel engine. This engine is tuned for torque rather than speed. Strong torque helps while climbing steep slopes and driving through slush or sand. The engine feels reliable and solid under load.
The Gurkha comes with a manual gearbox. Gear shifts feel firm and mechanical. This gives better control during off-road driving. A low range transfer case is included for extreme conditions.
On city roads, the Gurkha feels heavy but manageable. On highways, it cruises comfortably at moderate speeds. It is not built for quick acceleration, but it feels confident and stable.
Off-Road Capability and 4×4 System
Off-road performance is the biggest strength of the Force Gurkha. It uses a ladder frame chassis that can handle tough abuse. The 4×4 system includes low range gearing. This helps when driving on steep climbs, deep mud and loose sand.
The high ground clearance protects the underbody. Approach and departure angles are well suited for trails and rocky paths. Some versions also offer differential locks, which improve traction when wheels lose grip.
Many owners choose the Gurkha specifically for off-road tours and trail driving. It performs well in situations where regular SUVs struggle.
Ride Quality and Handling
The Force Gurkha ride quality is firm. This is because the suspension is tuned for off-road strength. On rough roads, the suspension absorbs bumps well. On smooth city roads, the ride feels stiff compared to soft urban SUVs.
Handling is predictable at low speeds. The steering offers good feedback during off-road driving. On highways, body roll is noticeable due to the tall design. However, the vehicle remains stable when driven sensibly.
Braking performance is strong and confidence-inspiring. The Gurkha feels secure when slowing down from highway speeds.
Mileage and Running Costs
The Force Gurkha mileage is average for a heavy diesel 4×4 SUV. Fuel efficiency depends on driving style and terrain. City mileage is lower due to weight and stop-and-go traffic. Highway mileage improves when driven at steady speeds.
Maintenance costs are reasonable for a diesel off-road SUV. Force Motors has a wide service network across India. Spare parts availability is good in most regions.
Owners usually accept slightly higher running costs in exchange for true off-road capability.
Safety Features
Safety features in the Force Gurkha focus on essentials. It comes with dual front airbags. ABS with EBD is standard. Seat belts are available for all occupants.
Off-road safety features include hill descent control and strong braking systems. These help during downhill drives on loose surfaces. Advanced driver assistance systems are not the focus of this SUV.
Features and Equipment
The Gurkha offers necessary comfort features. Air conditioning works well in Indian heat. Power windows and central locking are standard. The infotainment system is basic and functional.
Some variants offer alloy wheels, roof racks, snorkel and special off-road accessories. These improve the adventure appeal and usability.
Technology is kept minimal to reduce complexity during off-road use.
Daily Usability and Practicality
Despite its off-road focus, the Force Gurkha can be used daily. City driving requires adjustment due to size and turning radius. Parking in tight spaces needs care.
The high seating position helps in traffic. Boot space is limited due to the rear-mounted spare wheel. However, it is enough for weekend luggage and tools.
For buyers living in hilly or rural areas, the Gurkha is very practical.
Force Gurkha vs Rivals
The Mahindra Thar offers a more modern interior and better city comfort. The Gurkha offers stronger off-road hardware and a more traditional feel. Jeep SUVs focus on premium experience and pricing is higher.
The Force Gurkha appeals to buyers who want simplicity, strength and off-road reliability over luxury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Force Gurkha good for off-roading?
Yes. It is one of the best true off-road SUVs in India.
Is Force Gurkha suitable for city use?
Yes, but it feels firm and large compared to regular city SUVs.
What is the Force Gurkha price in India?
Prices vary by variant and location. It sits in the premium off-road SUV range.
Does Force Gurkha have good service support?
Yes. Force Motors has strong service coverage across India.
Conclusion
The Force Gurkha remains a strong choice for buyers who want a real off-road SUV in India. It delivers excellent 4×4 capability, strong build quality and dependable performance. It is not designed for luxury or high technology. Instead, it focuses on durability and adventure.
For buyers who love exploring rough roads, mountains and trails, the Force Gurkha 2025 is a solid and trustworthy companion. If comfort and features are your priority, other SUVs may suit you better. But if off-road strength matters most, the Gurkha continues to stand tall.
