Ford Explorer vs Mitsubishi Pajero: Which Should You Buy in KSA?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Ford Explorer⁩ VS ⁦Mitsubishi Pajero⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across KSA.

⁦Ford Explorer⁩ VS ⁦Mitsubishi Pajero⁩: the verdict

The Ford Explorer emerges as the stronger contender for drivers prioritizing modern performance, advanced features, and fuel efficiency. Its powerful engine and swift acceleration offer a more dynamic driving experience. However, for budget-conscious buyers seeking a robust and highly versatile SUV with a proven track record, the Mitsubishi Pajero presents a compelling, more affordable alternative.
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Price Comparison
Starting at177,376 – 238,625 SAR126,500 – 180,000 SAR
Engine & Power
Engine2,300 – 3,000 cc · 4 – 6 cyl3,470 – 3,500 cc · 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)300 – 400 hp184 – 189 hp
Torque (Nm)420 – 563 Nm303 – 306 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.5 – 6.8 s12.5 – 12.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)180 – 237 km/h180 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)7.8 – 11.7 L/100km13 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity67 L69 – 88 L
Gears104 – 5
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H5.0 m × 2.0 m × 1.8 m4.4 / 4.9 m × 1.9 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m
Wheelbase (meters)3.0 m2.6 / 2.8 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,970 – 2,132 kg1,935 – 2,100 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)515 L500 – 1,081 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity7 seats5 / 7 seats
Doors5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAir ConditioningAirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAluminum WheelsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAUXAUX InputBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBody Colored GrilleBody KItBreakover AngleBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCooled SeatsCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersCVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)Daytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDual Exhaust TipDVD PlayerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofEmergency Brake AssistFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog LightsFoldable Rear SeatsFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront BumperFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeadroomHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHybridInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLane Departure Warning SystemLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLumbar SupportManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BrakesRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun Flat TiresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSecurity SystemSide Impact BarSoft-closing DoorsSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSuperchargerTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsToolkitTorqueTorque SteerTowing HookTPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)Traction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrunk CapacityTurbochargerTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheelbaseWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V Socket4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door MirrorsChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCool boxCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Handles - Body ColoredDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsFabric SeatsFog Lamp - Front and RearFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayNumber of SpeakersOdometerParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearRadioRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTowing HookTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - Alloy

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance & Tech

The Ford Explorer, with its impressive 400 hp engine and 10-speed transmission, offers a far more dynamic and modern driving experience, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds.

2

Best for Value

The Mitsubishi Pajero is the clear winner for shoppers on a tighter budget, with a starting price of 126,416 SAR, significantly more affordable than the Explorer's entry point.

3

Best for Fuel Economy

The Ford Explorer is more fuel-efficient, achieving as low as 7.8 L/100km, making it a better choice for those looking to save on running costs compared to the Pajero's 13 L/100km.

4

Best for Cargo & Utility

The Mitsubishi Pajero excels in versatility with its flexible 5/7 seating and a massive maximum trunk capacity of 1,081 liters, making it ideal for hauling large items or adapting to different passenger needs.

Pros & cons

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • Superior engine power (up to 400 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as quick as 5.5 seconds)
  • More advanced 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Better fuel efficiency (as low as 7.8 L/100km)
  • Longer wheelbase for enhanced passenger comfort

Cons

  • Higher starting price point
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity (67 L)
  • Fixed 7-seat configuration

Mitsubishi Pajero

Pros

  • Significantly lower starting price (from 126,416 SAR)
  • Larger maximum trunk capacity (up to 1,081 L)
  • Flexible 5 or 7 seating configurations
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (up to 88 L)
  • Proven ruggedness and reliability

Cons

  • Significantly less engine power (max 189 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (up to 12.7 seconds)
  • Higher fuel consumption (13 L/100km)
  • Older 4- or 5-speed transmission

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero better for performance?

The Ford Explorer is definitively better for performance, offering a powerful 400 hp engine and rapid 5.5-second acceleration. In contrast, the Mitsubishi Pajero provides a maximum of 189 hp and takes 12.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h. If dynamic driving is your priority, the Explorer is the superior choice.

Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero?

The Ford Explorer is more fuel-efficient, with consumption as low as 7.8 L/100km. The Mitsubishi Pajero has a higher fuel consumption rate of 13 L/100km across its trims. For better fuel economy in daily driving, the Explorer is the recommended option.

Which is the more affordable SUV, the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero?

The Mitsubishi Pajero is significantly more affordable, with prices starting from 126,416 SAR. The Ford Explorer's price range begins at 184,771 SAR. For buyers prioritizing budget and value, the Pajero offers a much lower entry cost.

Does the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero offer more cargo space?

The Mitsubishi Pajero offers more maximum cargo space, with up to 1,081 liters when its rear seats are folded. The Ford Explorer provides a respectable 515 liters. If you frequently need to haul large items or require flexible cargo configurations, the Pajero is the better choice.

Which SUV has a more modern transmission, the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero?

The Ford Explorer features a more modern 10-speed automatic transmission, providing smoother shifts and better efficiency. The Mitsubishi Pajero uses an older 4- or 5-speed automatic transmission. For a contemporary driving experience with advanced gear technology, the Explorer is preferred.