Force Gurkha Considers Automatic Gearbox for Wider Appeal

The burly Force Gurkha SUV may finally get an automatic transmission, making it accessible and useful to more people than just off-road enthusiasts. This information is based on the Gurkha getting a major update last month.

A Refreshed Gurkha, But Limited Options

Unveiled in June 2024 New Gurkha gets an updated 140 hp diesel engine, more features and both 3-door and 5-door versions. We think that with the starting price of Rs 16.75 lakh, and with no affordable variant with the 4x2 now, all it holds is a fan following only amongst off-road enthusiasts. This is all the more apparent when one considers rivals such as the Maruti Suzuki Jimny and the Mahindra Thar. The latter comes only with auto transmission options as does the Thar, once again to mop up the rest of the customers. The Thar also gets a 4x2 variant with a smaller diesel engine to make it more usable in an urban setting.

Force Gurkha Embraces Automatic Technology

Force Motors is reportedly looking at a 7-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox sourced from the renowned Japanese company JATCO. This gearbox is similar to the one used in the Nissan Magnite and the Renault Kiger. However, more importantly, this transmission has been tuned for using stiff low-end torque that can tackle heavy treaded paths easily, making it go hand-in-glove with the 4WD on the Gurkha.

Expected Price Increase and Market Positioning

With the addition of the automatic transmission, the Gurkha's price is likely to increase by around Rs 1 lakh. This would price the 3-door Gurkha AT at around Rs 18 lakh and the 5-door variant at around Rs 19 lakh, ex-showroom. For context, the Mahindra Thar diesel 4x4 automatic variants range from Rs 17-17.6 lakh, so that makes the Gurkha AT, especially the 3-door version, a bit pricey in comparison. Whether this price difference will affect sales remains to be seen.

Also Read: Bajaj CNG Bike Launch Delayed, Now Set for July 17th

Force Motors Seeks a Broader Audience

Force Motors is already working on a 4x2 version of the Gurkha and hopes to attract more customers. The new model will rub shoulders with the rear-wheel-drive-only Mahindra Thar as its asking price will definitely appeal to a lot more than the few who actually need extreme off-road capabilities.

The addition of an automatic gearbox and probable 4x2 version signal that Force Motors is trying to make the Gurkha a more complete SUV, something that could potentially challenge the supremacy of the Mahindra Thar and Maruti Suzuki Jimny.

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