The 2024 Force Motors Gurkha 3-Door (4-Seater) and the 2024 Mahindra Thar 3-Door (4-Seater) Diesel are two of the most sought-after off-roaders in the Indian market. Both vehicles cater to adventure enthusiasts who demand rugged performance, robust build quality, and a reliable driving experience in challenging terrains. However, while both models share similar off-road capabilities, they differ significantly in terms of features, specifications, and pricing. In this comparison, we will explore these differences to help you decide which of these 4-seater off-roaders best suits your needs.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Force Motors Gurkha:
The 2024 Force Gurkha retains its boxy, rugged design that has become its signature. It features a tall stance, round headlamps with LED DRLs, a bold front grille, and flared wheel arches. The vehicle stands at 4,116 mm in length, 1,812 mm in width, and 2,075 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,400 mm. Its 205 mm ground clearance and 700 mm water wading capability make it an ideal choice for extreme off-roading. The Gurkha also boasts a snorkel, roof carrier, and front and rear steel bumpers, enhancing its off-road appeal.
Mahindra Thar:
The 2024 Mahindra Thar, while also retaining a rugged persona, opts for a more modern design with contemporary touches. It features a wider stance, square-shaped LED headlamps, and a seven-slot grille that gives it a distinctive Jeep-like look. The Thar measures 3,985 mm in length, 1,820 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,450 mm. The 226 mm ground clearance and 650 mm water wading capability make it a competent off-roader. The Thar’s design is more refined compared to the Gurkha, appealing to those who seek both style and substance.
Interior and Comfort
Force Motors Gurkha:
The interior of the 2024 Gurkha is functional and built to withstand rugged use. It comes with four captain seats, offering decent comfort and support during long off-road journeys. The cabin is equipped with essentials like manual air conditioning, power windows, and a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity. However, it lacks advanced features like touchscreen navigation or automatic climate control. The overall cabin quality is utilitarian, focusing more on durability than luxury.
Mahindra Thar:
The 2024 Thar, on the other hand, offers a more feature-rich and comfortable cabin. It comes with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic climate control, cruise control, and a multifunction steering wheel. The seats are more plush and supportive, making the Thar better suited for longer journeys. The Thar’s interior is also more refined, with premium materials and better ergonomics compared to the Gurkha.
Engine and Performance
Force Motors Gurkha:
The 2024 Gurkha is powered by a 2.6-liter diesel engine that produces 91 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The Gurkha’s engine is more focused on low-end torque, making it excellent for off-roading, especially in challenging terrains. The vehicle comes with a 4×4 drivetrain, manual locking differentials, and a low-range transfer case, ensuring superior off-road capability.
Mahindra Thar:
The 2024 Thar is powered by a more potent 2.2-liter mHawk diesel engine that churns out 130 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed manual or an optional 6-speed automatic transmission. The Thar’s engine is more powerful and offers better on-road performance, making it a versatile choice for both city driving and off-roading. Like the Gurkha, the Thar also features a 4×4 drivetrain with a low-range transfer case, but it comes with an additional electronic locking differential, enhancing its off-road prowess.
Safety Features
Force Motors Gurkha:
The Gurkha comes equipped with basic safety features such as dual airbags, ABS with EBD, rear parking sensors, and a reinforced body shell for better crash protection. However, it lacks more advanced safety technologies found in modern vehicles.
Mahindra Thar:
The Thar, in contrast, offers a more comprehensive safety package. It includes dual airbags, ABS with EBD, electronic stability control (ESC), hill hold and hill descent control, and rear parking sensors with a rearview camera. The Thar’s safety features make it a safer option, especially for those who plan to use it as a daily driver.
Pricing and Value for Money
Force Motors Gurkha:
The 2024 Force Gurkha is priced at around ₹16.50 lakh (ex-showroom). While it is more affordable than the Thar, it lacks some of the modern amenities and advanced safety features. However, its robust build and off-road capabilities make it a good value for those who prioritize ruggedness over luxury.
Mahindra Thar:
The 2024 Mahindra Thar starts at approximately ₹17.50 lakh (ex-showroom) for the diesel variant. It is priced slightly higher than the Gurkha but justifies the premium with its better-equipped interior, more powerful engine, and advanced safety features. The Thar offers a more balanced package for those who want an off-roader that also performs well in urban environments.
Verdict
Choosing between the 2024 Force Motors Gurkha 3-Door (4-Seater) and the 2024 Mahindra Thar 3-Door (4-Seater) Diesel ultimately depends on your priorities. The Gurkha is an excellent choice for hardcore off-road enthusiasts who need a rugged, no-nonsense vehicle. In contrast, the Thar offers a more refined and versatile package, making it suitable for both off-road adventures and daily commutes. While the Gurkha is more affordable, the Thar’s additional features, better performance, and enhanced safety make it a more compelling choice for a broader audience.
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