Force Motors recently launched the new Gurkha – marketed as the world’s first E.O.V. (Extreme Offroader Vehicle) 4x4x4 – at the ongoing International Bus and Utility Show 2013 being held at the India Expo Mart, Greater Noida.
The Gurkha is powered by a 2.6 litre Mercedes OM616 turbodiesel engine with a peak power output of 82 PS at 3,200 RPM and peak torque of 230 Nm at 1,800-2,000 RPM. This engine takes the Gurkha to a top speed of 123 km/h and has an average fuel consumption of 11-12 km/l. Off-road enhancements include a Hi-Lo option on the transfer case of the five-speed synchromesh transmission, differential locks on both axles, 210 MM ground clearance, a chrome-finish intake snorkel, independent front suspension with solid torsion bar, and 245/70-R16 off-road tyres with alloy wheels. Braking is via disc brakes all round.
The company displayed a series of videos to demonstrate the Gurkha’s extreme offroading capabilities. The 4x4x4 positioning refers to four wheels x four powered wheels x capable on mountain+desert+snow+slush (i.e. four types of) terrain. The company also displayed a fully-accessorised version of the Gurkha (using aftermarket accessories) worth a total of around 30 lakh rupees.
The Gurkha will be launched in April 2013 in three variants – a soft top 4×2 at 6.25 lakh rupees, a soft top 4×4 at 8.35 lakh rupees, and a hard top 4×4 at 8.5 lakh rupees (all ex-showroom New Delhi). All versions will be offered with a three-year/three lakh km warranty.
