Family travel in India has evolved far beyond just reaching destinations. Today, the journey itself has become an experience worth savoring — filled with comfort, connection, and ease. For families and small groups who wish to explore India by road, two vehicles dominate the luxury travel segment: the Force Urbania and the Tempo Traveller.
Both represent comfort, safety, and reliability, but each caters to slightly different preferences. While the Tempo Traveller has been India’s trusted family tour companion for years, the Force Urbania brings a touch of modern design and international luxury. Deciding between the two depends on your group size, itinerary, and the level of refinement you seek.
Let’s break down the differences and help you find the perfect companion for your next private family tour in India.
India’s diversity demands flexibility. From the desert dunes of Rajasthan to the lush hills of Kerala, traveling with a private chauffeur-driven vehicle offers freedom and personalization that fixed itineraries can’t match.
Families often prefer hiring a single spacious van instead of multiple cars. It allows everyone to stay together, share conversations, and travel comfortably. Both the Tempo Traveller and Force Urbania excel in this space, combining comfort and control with the safety of a professional driver.
For foreign travelers, these vehicles are especially appealing — they provide a private, air-conditioned, and secure environment while navigating India’s dynamic roads and vibrant towns.
The most noticeable difference between the two lies in design philosophy.
The Tempo Traveller, manufactured by Force Motors for decades, has become synonymous with Indian group travel. Its design is functional — straightforward, spacious, and dependable. Over the years, it has earned its reputation as the go-to vehicle for families, photography groups, and corporate outings.
The Force Urbania, on the other hand, is a newer entrant that redefines this segment. It’s inspired by European luxury vans and crafted to match international standards. With aerodynamic contours, LED headlights, and a refined silhouette, it instantly stands out.
Inside, the Urbania offers soft-touch finishes, mood lighting, and wider recliner seats — making it a clear winner in aesthetics and ambiance. The Traveller, while reliable, leans toward practicality rather than plushness.
Verdict:
For families seeking pure functionality and proven reliability, the Tempo Traveller delivers. For those who prioritize luxury, design, and a modern look, the Force Urbania leads.
Family travel in India often means long journeys — from Jaipur to Jodhpur, from Agra to Khajuraho, or from Kochi to Munnar. Comfort during these drives can define the entire experience.
The Tempo Traveller offers solid ergonomics and space optimization. It’s available in multiple configurations — 9-seater, 12-seater, 16-seater, and the Maharaja Edition with extra-wide recliner seats. The high roof and open layout ensure ample headroom, making it ideal for families with children or elderly members.
The Force Urbania, however, takes comfort to a new level. It offers luxury-grade reclining leather seats with armrests, dual-zone AC, advanced suspension, and whisper-quiet interiors. It feels closer to a European touring van, where even an eight-hour drive feels serene and effortless.
For small families or premium travelers who value refinement, the Urbania’s interiors mirror the feel of a moving lounge.
Verdict:
Tempo Traveller = Spacious reliability.
Force Urbania = Premium luxury.
Road conditions in India vary widely — smooth highways can quickly turn into bumpy rural tracks. A good suspension system ensures that passengers remain comfortable throughout.
The Tempo Traveller, particularly its modern variants, features upgraded suspension that performs well for most road conditions. However, it can still feel a little firm on uneven terrain.
The Force Urbania comes equipped with an advanced air suspension and improved chassis design, making the ride noticeably smoother and quieter. It absorbs bumps effortlessly, maintaining cabin stability even at higher speeds.
Families traveling with children or senior citizens immediately notice the difference — the Urbania feels softer, steadier, and more refined.
Both vehicles are powered by Force Motors’ efficient diesel engines, designed for reliability and endurance.
The Tempo Traveller typically comes with a 2.6L or 3.2L diesel engine, delivering solid torque for intercity drives. It’s powerful enough for hilly terrains, though it emphasizes durability over outright speed.
The Urbania, built on a new platform, features a more advanced 2.6L FM 2.6 CR diesel engine paired with a refined transmission system. It produces smoother acceleration, quieter operation, and better fuel efficiency.
Its engine refinement aligns with its positioning as a premium van, suitable for long interstate drives.
Verdict:
For rugged performance and dependability, the Traveller still impresses. For silent power and refined cruising, Urbania takes the lead.
Safety is non-negotiable for families traveling long distances. Here, the Urbania clearly outshines the Traveller.
The Tempo Traveller provides basic safety equipment such as seatbelts and sturdy build quality. However, it lacks modern electronic aids found in newer vehicles.
The Force Urbania is equipped with:
This makes it one of the safest vans in its category, especially for families with children or elderly passengers.
Verdict:
Force Urbania offers superior safety technology, making it ideal for premium family tours.
The difference between the two vehicles becomes more pronounced when we consider technology.
The Tempo Traveller offers entertainment systems, USB charging points, and air conditioning, but the setup varies depending on the operator’s customization.
The Urbania, however, includes these as standard — touchscreen infotainment, USB ports for each seat, LED lighting, ambient mood settings, and better acoustic insulation. Its cabin feels closer to a luxury coach than a van.
For international travelers used to European touring vans, the Urbania feels familiar, comfortable, and upscale.
Choosing between the two often depends on how many people are traveling.
If your group is large and wants space without upgrading to a coach, the Tempo Traveller is better suited. For smaller families wanting a personalized, elegant experience, the Urbania is perfect.
When arriving at a luxury resort or heritage hotel, the vehicle you travel in adds to your presence. The Force Urbania, with its sleek exterior and chrome accents, reflects modern luxury. It fits perfectly outside five-star hotels, palaces, and high-end villas.
The Tempo Traveller, though simpler in design, has an iconic familiarity that resonates with Indian travel heritage.
Verdict:
Urbania appeals to travelers seeking elegance and status. Traveller appeals to those valuing function and practicality.
In terms of rental cost, the Tempo Traveller remains more affordable. Daily rates for a luxury Maharaja Traveller (with driver, fuel, and permits) typically range between ₹10,000–₹14,000.
The Urbania, being newer and more premium, costs between ₹14,000–₹18,000 per day depending on the route and seating capacity.
While the difference exists, many families find the Urbania’s comfort and refinement worth the premium, especially for long-duration tours across multiple states.
Both vehicles are BS6-compliant and designed for reduced emissions. However, the Urbania’s upgraded engine and aerodynamic design make it more fuel-efficient and environmentally responsible.
For eco-conscious travelers, this makes the Urbania a better long-term choice.
When booking through Luxury Private Tours of India, travelers can access both Force Urbania and Tempo Traveller options — each maintained to international standards.
Guests benefit from:
Every booking emphasizes comfort, safety, and personalized service — ensuring a private journey through India that feels effortless and elegant.
If your priority is space, affordability, and reliability, go for the Tempo Traveller. It’s versatile, time-tested, and perfect for medium-to-large family groups.
If you seek style, quiet luxury, and enhanced safety, the Force Urbania is your match. It elevates road travel into a premium experience — ideal for smaller groups and discerning families who value refinement.
Ultimately, both vehicles deliver what matters most: safe, comfortable, and private travel across India, supported by professional chauffeur service and seamless logistics.
The choice isn’t about which is better — it’s about which fits your family’s rhythm of travel.
For luxury and technology, yes. For group capacity and affordability, the Tempo Traveller remains strong.
The Tempo Traveller, as it offers higher seating configurations (up to 17 seats).
Yes, its recliner seats, insulation, and advanced suspension make long journeys smoother.
Yes, both offer full AC with multi-zone cooling.
Absolutely, with airbags, ABS, and advanced chassis protection, it’s one of the safest vans in its class.
Yes, both come with All India Tourist Permits for seamless travel between states.
Yes, all bookings through Luxury Private Tours of India include licensed, English-speaking drivers.
Tempo Traveller: ₹10,000–₹14,000/day; Force Urbania: ₹14,000–₹18,000/day (including driver and fuel).
The Force Urbania, due to advanced insulation and engineering.
Because it guarantees maintained vehicles, professional chauffeurs, transparent pricing, and the kind of luxury service international travelers expect.
