Indian-Made SUV with Mercedes DNA You Need to Know About

What is the Indian-made G-Class, manufactured under a Mercedes-Benz license by India’s Force?

Did you know that in India, there exists an SUV that bears a striking resemblance to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class? Indian automaker Force manufactures and sells the Gurkha, which has attracted attention due to its striking similarity to the Mercedes-Benz off-road SUV, the G-Class. They plan to expand into the practical SUV market by launching a new 5-door model of this vehicle.

It’s surprising to hear that a relatively unknown Indian automaker has a G-Class. Some have expressed concerns that this could be an unauthorized design copy. However, the vehicle is not an unauthorized copy. They can manufacture and launch a car with a design similar to the G-Class because they have received an official license from Mercedes-Benz. Not only the design, but they also use Mercedes-Benz engines, making it a popular SUV locally.

Resembling the 3-door model, but with significant improvements in design and performance

This vehicle, which looks remarkably like the G-Class, has grown from a 3-door to a 5-door model, making it look even more like it. The new 5-door model, which has been developing since 2022, was unveiled locally for the first time. Despite adding a second-row door and a longer wheelbase, it shares the same design and parts as the previous model.

According to information from the local market, the wheelbase length of the 5-door Force Gurkha is 111.2 inches (2,825mm). This is 16.7 inches (425mm) longer than the 3-door model. As a result, they have secured more interior space and didn’t miss out on various interior change options. In addition, they improved design elements, including rectangular LED headlights and 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels.

Securing interior space with 3-row seats
Equipped with a Mercedes-Benz diesel engine

While it’s not officially confirmed yet, the car is expected to have a third row of seats accommodating up to seven passengers. Despite these significant changes, the dashboard space seems slightly different from the previous three-door model.

Since this vehicle is manufactured under a Mercedes-Benz license, it has a Mercedes-Benz engine. It’s expected to use a 2.6L common-rail diesel engine. This powertrain combines a 5-speed manual gearbox and a four-wheel-drive system with front and rear locking differentials, enhancing off-road performance.

Remarkably affordable price

The Gurkha 5-door is expected to be unveiled in India in the second half of 2024. What’s eye-catching is the price. Unlike the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which easily exceeds 100 million Korean won, the Gurkha can be purchased for approximately $19,000 to $20,000.