Ladder frame SUVs are a rare breed, and Mahindra is the only manufacturer with three on offer — Thar, Thar Roxx, and Scorpio N. That said, when it comes to a practical off-roader with space to carry passengers and luggage, the only choice was the Force Gurkha five-door. Now, with the launch of the new Mahindra Thar Roxx, enthusiasts have a choice, and we compare them to tell you which is a better choice.
Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Force Gurkha — Design and dimensions
As mentioned, both SUVs are based on a ladder frame chassis with the body bolted on top. They both feature a boxy design with a hard top and five doors. However, in terms of looks alone, the Thar is more premium, while the Gurkha looks more utilitarian.
| Dimensions | Thar Roxx | Force Gurkha |
| Length | 4428 mm | 4390 mm |
| Width | 1870 mm | 1865 mm |
| Height | 1923 mm | 2095 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2850 mm | 2825 mm |
| Ground Clearance | — | 233 mm |
| Wheels | 18-inch | 18-inch |
| Seating | 5 | 6/7 |
Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Force Gurkha — Features and safety
Regarding features, the Mahindra Thar Roxx is loaded to the brim. It gets dual 10.2-inch digital displays, smartphone connectivity, navigation, a Harmon Kardon audio system, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and more. On the safety front, the Thar Roxx gets multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera, and ADAS Level 2 amongst others.
The Force Gurkha five-door version is a six-seater while the Thar Roxx is a five-seater. That said, the Gurkha gets a 9-inch infotainment system, LED lighting, dual airbags, ABS with EBD, and that’s about it. It is sparsely equipped compared to the Thar Roxx, but offers adequate features for those looking for a go-anywhere SUV.
Mahindra Thar Roxx vs Force Gurkha — Engine specifications
Being able to go off-road is one thing and handling highway speeds is another. The Mahindra Thar Roxx is offered in petrol and diesel versions with both engines in two states of tune. Gearbox options include a manual and an automatic. The Force Gurkha five-door is offered with a single Mercedes-derived diesel engine.
| Specifications | Thar Roxx (P) | Thar Roxx (D) | Force Gurkha |
| Displacement | 2.0-litre | 2.2-litre | 2.6-litre |
| Power | 160 bhp | 170 bhp | 150 bhp | 172 bhp | 138 bhp |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 380 Nm | 330 Nm | 370 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Gearbox | MT/AT | MT/AT | MT |
Comparing the two, the Thar Roxx is more powerful and capable of long highway runs and city conditions. The Force Gurkha is also capable, but just not as much as the Thar Roxx. Also, the Thar Roxx offers a more comfortable ride compared to the Gurkha.