Hi Folks,
Please share your views / thoughts on my predicament described in detail below. Apologies for the long post.
I already own a Renault Duster AWD, August 2016 model, and I love it. I did the Spiti Circuit in October 2018 (post-September snow) and the Duster performed brilliantly with no trouble at all. Link to videos and some pictures from the trip here:
https://www.team-bhp.com/forum/offic...ml#post4506203 (Renault Duster AWD : Official Review)
However, I have this itch of owning a SUV with Transfer Case (4L option) for even tougher off-road conditions, and also for the fun of it.
While I have been considering buying a pre-owned Pajero Sport (Manual Gearbox) for some time, the recent launch of the Force Gurkha Extreme has raised some doubts in my mind.
Let me note down the points for consideration:
1. Pre-owned Pajero Sport (about 5 years old, 60000 Kms run) would cost around 12-13 Lakhs in Delhi NCR; Force Gurkha Extreme would cost around 15 Lakhs on road in Delhi NCR.
2. Considering that I am based in NCR, I would be able to use the Pajero Sport for about 5 years, while I would be able to use the new Force Gurkha Extreme for 10 years (theoretically).
3. While there may be certain doubts about the availability of spare parts of Pajero Sport in future (doubts about Mitsubishi staying put in Indian Market, this particular model being discontinued etc.), same may not be true for Force Gurkha Extreme considering it is manufactured by an Indian Company, and hence chances of longer availability of parts (Please correct me if you think is a wrong assumption to work on).
4. My another assumption is that the running and maintenance cost of new Gurkha Extreme would be less as compared to a pre-owned Pajero Sport.
5. The peace of mind of owning a new vehicle would be more than that of owning a pre-owned vehicle. Also, no immediate expense on tyres, battery etc.
6. I like the looks of the Pajero Sport, but somehow I like the looks of the Force Gurkha Extreme even more (having looked just at the brochure).
7. I understand that Pajero Sport would have better security features as compared to Force Gurkha Extreme.
The one point which I have no idea about and would be my most important consideration would be which of the two vehicles would be a more competent off-roader.
From its brochure which is now available on Force Motors website, I understand that Force Gurkha Extreme comes with following features:
1. A factory fitted Snorkel (550 mm Water Wading Capability).
2. Front and Rear Manually Lockable Differentials (I do not think this is available on any other SUV in India - Please correct me if I am wrong - though I haven't checked the higher end SUVs like Land Cruiser and Jeep Wrangler etc.)
3. Newer and Better engine which produces 140 HP Power and 321 NM Torque @ 1600-2400 RPM
4. 44 degree approach angle, 40 degree departure angle (without footstep), 30 degree ramp over angle (I believe these are better than Pajero Sport and also better than any other SUV sold in India)
5. 210 mm Ground Clearance
6. Multi Link Coil Spring Suspension on all wheels.
Would be glad to hear all views from fellow BHPians about which of the two vehicles, Pre-Owned Pajero Sport or the New Force Gurkha Extreme should I go for and why. If you think I should consider any other Manual SUV with Transfer Case (new or old), in the range of 15 Lakhs on the road, then please do share that also along with reasons for the same.
My only request: For the purposes of this discussion please limit your advice only to Manual 4x4 SUVs with Transfer Case. I am already sold on the Ford Endeavour 3.2 Automatic with Transfer Case and that would be separate buy (New or Pre-Owned) as and when it happens.
Thank you.