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 wins for those seeking modern performance, fuel efficiency, and advanced features, offering a more contemporary driving experience. However, the Mitsubishi Pajero is the clear choice for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing ruggedness and a significantly lower entry price, despite its older platform and less powerful engine. It provides a proven, no-frills SUV option.
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Price Comparison
Starting at184,771 – 238,625 SAR126,416 – 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 Enthusiasts

The Ford Explorer is the undeniable winner here. Its powerful engine options, delivering up to 400 hp and accelerating to 100 km/h in as little as 5.5 seconds, make it thrilling to drive.

2

Best for Value Seekers

The Mitsubishi Pajero offers significantly better value for money with a starting price of 126,416 SAR, making it a much more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

The Ford Explorer boasts superior fuel economy, achieving as low as 7.8 L/100km. This makes it a more economical choice for daily commutes and long journeys compared to the Pajero.

4

Best for Cargo Space Flexibility

The Mitsubishi Pajero offers a higher maximum trunk capacity of up to 1,081 L when configured, providing ample space for luggage or gear, surpassing the Explorer's 515 L.

Pros & cons

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • Significantly more powerful engine (up to 400 hp)
  • Superior acceleration (0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds)
  • More advanced 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Better fuel economy (as low as 7.8 L/100km)
  • Larger, more modern interior dimensions (3.0m wheelbase)

Cons

  • Higher starting price point
  • Lower maximum trunk capacity (515 L)
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity (67 L)

Mitsubishi Pajero

Pros

  • Significantly lower starting price (from 126,416 SAR)
  • Higher maximum trunk capacity (up to 1,081 L)
  • Larger maximum fuel tank capacity (up to 88 L)
  • Option for 5 or 7 seats

Cons

  • Much lower engine power output (up to 189 hp)
  • Slower acceleration performance (0-100 km/h in 12.5 seconds)
  • Less fuel-efficient (13 L/100km)
  • Older transmission technology (4-5 gears)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero better value for money?

The Mitsubishi Pajero offers significantly better value for money with a starting price of 126,416 SAR, considerably lower than the Ford Explorer's 184,771 SAR. While the Explorer offers more modern features and performance, the Pajero is the clear choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a capable SUV at a lower initial cost.

Which SUV has better performance, the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero?

The Ford Explorer clearly outperforms the Mitsubishi Pajero. The Explorer boasts up to 400 hp and accelerates from 0-100 km/h in as little as 5.5 seconds, compared to the Pajero's maximum of 189 hp and 12.5 seconds. For drivers prioritizing power and quick acceleration, the Explorer is the superior choice.

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

The Ford Explorer is more fuel-efficient, achieving as low as 7.8 L/100km, whereas the Mitsubishi Pajero consumes 13 L/100km. If fuel economy is a primary concern for your daily commute or long trips, the Explorer will offer better savings at the pump.

Which offers more seating capacity, Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero?

Both the Ford Explorer and Mitsubishi Pajero offer 7-seater configurations. The Explorer consistently comes with 7 seats across all trims, while the Pajero offers both 5 and 7-seat options, providing more flexibility. For consistent family hauling needs, both can accommodate, but the Explorer ensures 7 seats as standard.

What is the price difference between the Ford Explorer and Mitsubishi Pajero in KSA?

There is a significant price difference. The Mitsubishi Pajero ranges from 126,416 SAR to 180,000 SAR, while the Ford Explorer is priced between 184,771 SAR and 238,625 SAR. The Pajero is considerably more affordable, making it an attractive option for buyers with a tighter budget in Saudi Arabia.