Force Motors has launched a more powerful version of the Gurkha Xtreme SUV
in India. The new Force Gurkha Xtreme is powered by a 2.2 litre Mercedes-Benz
sourced diesel motor. The SUV with the new engine option is only available in
the top-spec trim and has been priced at INR 12.99 lakh (ex-showroom India).
Apart from the engine, the Gurkha also features a new gearbox and a transfer
case.
The engine in question is the new 2.2-litre unit
from the Mercedes-Benz OM611 family that is paired with a new 5-speed manual
gearbox (Mercedes-Benz G32). This is the same four-cylinder engine that powered
the now discontinued Force One SUV. It is capable of generating 140 PS of
maximum power and 321 Nm of peak torque. Lower variants continue to employ the
85 PS 2.6-litre motor, which is priced from INR 10.49 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).
The Force Gurkha Xtreme 2.2 features a low-range
transfer case and front and rear differential locks. However, the transfer case
misses out on the shift-on-the-fly system, and instead, it gets a dual-mass
flywheel. The Gurkha Xtreme also receives an upgraded suspension setup with
multi-link units up front, similar to the ones at the rear. The new suspension
has resulted in a front track wider by 40 mm.
This new Force Gurkha Xtreme 2.2 receives
improvements to the approach, ramp break-over and departure angles as compared
to the Gurkha Xplorer. The SUV has a ground clearance of 205 mm and water -
wading depth of 550 mm. Coming to the interiors, the Xtreme features a new
centre console and gear knob.
It appears that bookings are open for the Gurkha
Xtreme 2.2 at Force dealerships across the country for an amount of INR 51,000.
The Force Gurkha Xtreme primarily rivals the Mahindra Thar. The change of heart
and a few updated mechanicals will now make it a more serious contender to its
arch nemesis.
