The Force Gurkha 5-Door is finally nearing its much-anticipated launch in September 2025, and Indian off-road enthusiasts couldn’t be more excited. Known for its rugged design and serious off-road capability, the Gurkha has always been a strong rival to the Mahindra Thar. Now, with a more practical five-door layout, Force Motors is targeting families, adventure travelers, and enthusiasts who want a true off-road SUV without compromising on space.
Launch Timeline and Availability
The Force Gurkha 5-Door is expected to be officially launched by the end of September 2025, with bookings likely to open mid-month. Deliveries will begin from October 2025, coinciding with the festive season.
Exterior Design and Styling
The new 5-door Gurkha retains the iconic rugged look but adds practicality:
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Boxy SUV Shape: True off-road stance with tall profile.
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Extended Wheelbase: To accommodate the extra set of doors.
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Round LED Headlamps: With integrated DRLs.
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Raised Bonnet and Wide Grille: Carrying the Force Motors logo.
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Alloy Wheels: 18-inch off-road alloys with chunkier tyres.
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Roof Rails and Snorkel: Standard for added adventure appeal.
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Tailgate Mounted Spare Wheel: Classic off-road design touch.
The design continues to emphasize functionality over luxury, staying true to the Gurkha DNA.
Engine and Performance
The Force Gurkha 5-Door will use the tried-and-tested 2.6-litre Mercedes-derived diesel engine:
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Power Output: Around 91 hp at 3,200 rpm.
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Torque: 250 Nm between 1,400–2,400 rpm.
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Transmission: 5-speed manual gearbox.
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Drivetrain: Standard 4×4 with low-range transfer case.
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Top Speed: Approximately 120 km/h.
While it’s not built for outright speed, the Gurkha excels in torque delivery and rugged off-road reliability.
Off-Road Features
The 5-door Gurkha enhances its reputation as a capable off-roader with:
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4×4 with Manual Locking Differentials on front and rear axles.
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High Ground Clearance: 210 mm.
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Water Wading Depth: Up to 700 mm with factory-fitted snorkel.
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Approach Angle: 37 degrees.
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Departure Angle: 33 degrees.
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Ramp Breakover Angle: 25 degrees.
These specs make it one of the most capable factory off-road SUVs in India.
Interior and Cabin Features
The biggest change in the 5-door Gurkha is its cabin space:
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Seating Options: Available in 6-, 7-, and 9-seater configurations.
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Dashboard: Carries over from the 3-door but with improved finish.
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Infotainment System: 7-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
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Digital MID: Displays fuel economy, trip info, and 4×4 status.
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AC Vents for Rear Rows: Added for passenger comfort.
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Upholstery: Fabric seats with optional leatherette in higher trims.
The interior balances rugged practicality with modern features.
Safety Features
Force Motors has equipped the Gurkha 5-Door with:
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Dual Front Airbags.
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ABS with EBD.
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Rear Parking Sensors.
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Seat Belt Reminder for All Rows.
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ISOFIX Child Seat Mounts.
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Tubular Ladder Frame Chassis: For added strength.
While it may not offer advanced ADAS like modern SUVs, its robust build quality ensures reliability in tough conditions.
Expected Price in India
The Force Gurkha 5-Door is expected to be priced between ₹16 lakh and ₹19 lakh (ex-showroom), making it more expensive than the 3-door version but competitive against the Mahindra Thar 5-Door.
Rivals and Competition
The Gurkha 5-Door will face tough competition in 2025:
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Mahindra Thar 5-Door (upcoming).
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Maruti Jimny 5-Door.
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Jeep Wrangler (higher price segment).
Its biggest advantage will be its factory snorkel, off-road credentials, and multiple seating layouts.
Who Should Buy the Force Gurkha 5-Door?
The Gurkha 5-Door is perfect for:
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Adventure Enthusiasts: Who want serious off-road ability.
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Families: Looking for space and practicality in an off-road SUV.
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Travelers: Suited for long-distance expeditions.
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Utility Buyers: Needing a rugged vehicle for rural or semi-urban conditions.
Verdict: Can the Gurkha 5-Door Win Against Rivals?
The Force Gurkha 5-Door combines rugged off-road ability with the practicality of five doors and multiple seating layouts. While it won’t match modern SUVs in luxury, it will attract enthusiasts who value off-road toughness, reliability, and uniqueness. If Force Motors ensures wider dealer support, the Gurkha 5-Door could finally emerge as a serious competitor to the Mahindra Thar in 2025.
FAQs
When will the Force Gurkha 5-Door launch in India?
It is expected to launch in late September 2025, with deliveries starting from October.
What engine powers the Gurkha 5-Door?
It is powered by a 2.6-litre Mercedes-derived diesel engine producing 91 hp and 250 Nm.
What is the expected price of the Force Gurkha 5-Door?
It is likely to cost between ₹16 lakh and ₹19 lakh (ex-showroom).
Who are its main rivals?
It will compete with the Mahindra Thar 5-Door, Maruti Jimny 5-Door, and Jeep Wrangler.
What makes the Gurkha 5-Door unique?
Its factory snorkel, high water wading depth, and true off-road DNA make it stand out.