Force Gurkha 3 Door Expert Review

The Force Gurkha stays true to its rugged, utilitarian roots, with a boxy design that prioritises function over form. Round headlamps, a flat bonnet and upright stance give it a distinctive old-school off-roader identity.
Underneath, it is built on a ladder-frame chassis with proper 4x4 hardware, including low-range gearing and manually selectable differential locks for both axles. This mechanical setup makes it one of the most hardcore off-roaders in its class.

The cabin reflects the Gurkha’s purpose-driven nature. It is simple and functional, with hard-wearing materials rather than premium finishes. Compared to older versions, there is a noticeable improvement in refinement and usability. The layout is more user-friendly, and features like a touchscreen infotainment system bring it closer to modern expectations. Space is decent for a 4-seater layout, with good headroom thanks to the tall roofline. The rear seats are comfortable enough for long drives.

The Gurkha is powered by a 2.6-litre diesel engine producing about 140hp and 320Nm, paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox.  Performance is modest on paper, and that reflects in real-world driving. Acceleration is not quick, and highway overtakes require planning. However, the engine’s strength lies in its low-end torque and tractability, which are crucial for off-road use. Refinement has improved significantly over earlier models. Noise levels are better controlled, and the engine feels smoother, though it still cannot match the modern polished SUVs.

Fuel efficiency is typical for a ladder-frame diesel SUV. Real-world figures are expected in the 10-12kmpl range, depending on driving conditions and usage.

Ride quality is surprisingly good for a hardcore off-roader. The suspension is tuned to absorb rough terrain effectively, making it comfortable over broken roads. However, on tarmac, the Gurkha feels slow and less composed, with noticeable body roll and limited high-speed confidence. Steering is vague and requires constant correction, reinforcing that this is not a road-focused SUV.
Where it excels is off-road. The combination of low-range gearing, differential locks and strong mechanical grip makes it extremely capable in challenging conditions, far beyond most lifestyle SUVs.

The update added essential modern features such as a touchscreen infotainment system with connectivity, power windows and improved ergonomics.
Safety equipment includes dual airbags, ABS and rear parking sensors, bringing it in line with current regulations. While the feature list is basic, it covers the essentials expected at this price point.

Priced around Rs 16 lakh (ex-showroom), the Gurkha sits in a niche segment with very few direct rivals. 
Its appeal is highly specific. It is not meant to compete with urban SUVs on comfort or performance. Instead, it targets buyers who want an authentic, no-compromise off-roader.