Mahindra Thar OG vs Force Gurkha: In the world of off-roading, both Thar and Gurkha are the most popular and rough and tough SUVs in the Indian market. Thar OG is the newly updated 3-door version of Mahindra, which carries forward the legacy of the legendary Thar with modern features and better suspension. Whereas, Force Gurkha is known for its pure off-road capability, high body and Mercedes-derived engine.
Both the vehicles are 4-seater and are preferred among adventure lovers. The Thar OG is more affordable and feature-rich in price, while the Gurkha looks like a more hardcore off-roader with its height, water wading capability and manual locking differential. There are many differences between the two, from design to performance, which is important to understand before buying.
Design and dimensions
Mahindra Thar OG has a modern and bold look. The new grille, LED headlamps (in the top variant), C-shaped DRLs and updated bumpers make it stylish. Its length is about 3995 mm, width is 1870 mm and height is 1855 mm. Wheelbase is 2450 mm and ground clearance is 232 mm. Force Gurkha looks more impressive and longer. Its height is 2080 mm, width is 1865 mm and length is 3965 mm. The snorkel, roof carrier and rear ladder give it the look of a pure off-roader. Ground clearance is 233 mm.
Interior and Features
The Thar OG gets an all-black cabin, 10.25-inch touchscreen (wireless Android Auto), cruise control, height-adjustable driver seat and rear AC vents. The top variant also has a wireless charger and better upholstery. The Gurkha has a 9-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, tilt-telescopic steering and manual AC. Features are more modern in Thar, whereas Gurkha is simple and practical.
Who is ahead in safety?
The Thar OG now gets 6 airbags, ESP, roll-over mitigation, hill hold/descent control, ABS with EBD and parking sensors. Dual airbags, ABS with EBD and TPMS are standard on the Gurkha. Thar is ahead in safety features.
Engine, Performance and Mileage
Thar OG is available in three engine options – 1.5-litre diesel (119 PS, 300 Nm), 2.2-litre diesel (152 PS, 330 Nm) and 2.0-litre petrol (162 PS, 330 Nm). It can be purchased in 6-speed manual/automatic and RWD/4WD options. The Gurkha is powered by only a 2.6-litre Mercedes-based diesel (approx. 138-140 bhp, 320 Nm) engine, which comes with a 5-speed manual and standard 4WD (manual locking differential).
Gurkha’s water wading of 700 mm and better breakover angle are beneficial in off-road, while Thar has better approach angle. Mileage in Thar is around 10-15 km/litre depending on the engine, in Gurkha it is around 9.5-12 km/litre. Overall, Thar OG is better for features, options and value, while Gurkha can be bought for pure off-roading.
