From the above table we can clearly see that although the new Gurkha is longer (131 mm) and taller (231 mm) than the second-generation Thar, the latter is wider (43 mm wide), and the front and rear tracks are wider and longer. Wheelbase (50 mm more). Therefore, although the wider wheelbase and longer wheelbase should make Thar more stable, Gurkha’s internal space should benefit from its growing longer.

By looking at their various off-road angles and ground clearance, we can also roughly understand the off-road capabilities of these two models. In this department, Tal beat the new Gurkha in every category because of its better approach angle (4.8 degrees), departure angle (3.8 degrees), breakthrough angle (2 degrees) and better Ground clearance (21 mm). The new Gurkha has regained some advantages with its higher wading credentials (rated increase of 50mm) and tighter turning radius (0.5m reduction), which should give it an advantage in terms of maneuverability.

The new generation Thar has a considerable weight advantage over Gurkha, because Thar is about 390 kg lighter than its competitors.

But I have to say that these figures only show half, and we have to wait for us to compare the two off-road vehicles in the real world. In addition, it is worth noting that the larger Gurkha 5-door sedan will also be launched soon.

2021 Force Gurkha vs Mahindra Thar: engine, gearbox and suspension

Looking at these diesel power systems, what is impressive is Mahindra Thar’s 130-horsepower, 2.2-liter mHawk turbo diesel engine. Not only does it have 39 horsepower more than the 2.6-liter engine derived from Gurkha’s Mercedes, but it also outputs 50 Nm of torque. In terms of transmission options, Gurkha only offers a 5-speed manual transmission, while Thar provides a 6-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed automatic transmission, which provides another advantage for Thar.

Unfortunately, Force abandoned the 140-horsepower, 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine of the old Gurkha Xtreme because it is closer to the diesel engine of the new Thar.

The new generation of Thar is now finally equipped with coil springs in its front and rear suspensions, although Gurkha’s front and rear suspensions are equipped with coil springs, even in the previous generation.

Both models are equipped with a transfer case, which allows you to switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive with a high or low ratio according to the standard. Thar is also equipped with many electronic safety features, such as hill start assist, hill descent control and front ESC-based brake lock differential and rear automatic mechanical lock differential. Although these functions are very convenient, the system is completely managed by the on-board computer and does not give you any individual control rights. On the other hand, Gurkha provides more control because it allows you to manually lock the front and rear differentials, even though it does not have other electronic safety nets.

Please note that in this comparison, we did not consider Thar’s 150-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine, as Gurkha only provides diesel power units.

See also:

2021 Force Gurkha review, test drive