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 decisively wins this comparison, standing out for its superior performance, modern 10-speed transmission, and notably better fuel efficiency. It's the ideal choice for KSA families prioritizing a powerful, refined, and economical daily driver. However, the Mitsubishi Pajero offers compelling flexibility with its seating and cargo options, appealing to those who favor a more traditional, versatile SUV experience, despite its lower power and older drivetrain.
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Price Comparison
Starting at176,008 – 254,898 SAR—
Engine & Power
Engine2,300 – 3,300 cc · 4 – 6 cyl3,470 – 3,500 cc · 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)285 – 400 hp184 – 189 hp
Torque (Nm)353 – 563 Nm303 – 306 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.5 – 7.1 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 doors3 / 5 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 HeadlampsAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBody Colored GrilleBody KItBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassCooled 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 CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeadroomHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHill Descent ControlHybridImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLane Departure Warning SystemLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomManual 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 SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun-Flat TyresSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSecurity SystemSoft-closing DoorsSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsTouchscreen SizeTowing 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 On-Road Performance

The Ford Explorer is the clear winner for performance enthusiasts, boasting significantly higher horsepower (up to 400 hp) and much quicker acceleration (as low as 5.5 seconds) compared to the Pajero.

2

Best for Fuel Efficiency

For drivers concerned with running costs, the Ford Explorer offers superior fuel economy, consuming as little as 7.8 L/100km, making it a more economical choice than the Pajero's 13 L/100km.

3

Best for Modern Driving Experience

The Ford Explorer provides a more contemporary and refined driving experience with its advanced 10-speed automatic transmission, offering smoother shifts and better power delivery than the Pajero's 4 or 5-speed gearbox.

4

Best for Flexible Utility & Range

The Mitsubishi Pajero excels in versatility with its flexible 5 or 7-seat configurations, a larger maximum trunk capacity (up to 1,081 L), and a bigger fuel tank (up to 88 L), making it suitable for varied needs and longer journeys.

Pros & cons

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • Significantly higher power output (up to 400 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as quick as 5.5 seconds)
  • More advanced 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Better fuel economy (as low as 7.8 L/100km)
  • Larger overall dimensions for passenger comfort

Cons

  • Smaller fuel tank capacity (67 L)
  • Fixed 7-seat configuration only
  • Higher starting price range
  • Less traditional SUV rugged appeal

Mitsubishi Pajero

Pros

  • Flexible 5 or 7-seat configuration
  • Larger maximum trunk capacity (up to 1,081 L)
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (up to 88 L)
  • Available in both 3-door and 5-door body styles

Cons

  • Significantly lower power output (up to 189 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (up to 12.7 seconds)
  • Less efficient fuel economy (13 L/100km)
  • Older 4 or 5-speed automatic transmission
  • Price information unavailable (N/A)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero better for families in KSA?

For families in KSA, the Ford Explorer generally offers a more modern and comfortable experience with its larger dimensions, superior performance, and better fuel efficiency. While both offer 7-seat options, the Explorer's refined ride and advanced features make it excellent for daily commutes and road trips. The Pajero, however, offers more flexible seating and cargo arrangements, which might suit families with diverse needs for space and utility.

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

The Ford Explorer clearly outperforms the Mitsubishi Pajero in terms of raw power and acceleration. The Explorer boasts up to 400 hp and can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in as little as 5.5 seconds, compared to the Pajero's maximum of 189 hp and 0-100 km/h in 12.5 seconds. For a more dynamic driving experience, the Explorer is the superior choice.

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

The Ford Explorer is significantly more fuel-efficient than the Mitsubishi Pajero. The Explorer achieves a fuel economy as low as 7.8 L/100km, while the Pajero consumes 13 L/100km. If fuel costs are a primary concern, the Explorer will be the more economical option for daily driving in KSA.

What are the key differences in seating and cargo space between the Ford Explorer and Mitsubishi Pajero?

The Ford Explorer comes standard with 7 seats and offers a trunk capacity of 515 L. The Mitsubishi Pajero, on the other hand, provides more flexibility with options for either 5 or 7 seats and a wider range of trunk capacity, from 500 L up to an impressive 1,081 L with seats folded. If maximum cargo versatility is crucial, the Pajero offers greater adaptability.

Is the Mitsubishi Pajero a good off-road vehicle compared to the Ford Explorer?

The Mitsubishi Pajero has a long-standing reputation as a rugged, traditional SUV, often associated with off-road capability, and its flexible body styles (including a 3-door option) support this image. While the Ford Explorer is a capable SUV, its design and specifications lean more towards on-road comfort and performance. For those seeking a vehicle with a more traditional robust build and flexible utility that might handle rougher terrain, the Pajero could be considered, though specific off-road specs are not provided to make a direct comparison.