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 winner for buyers prioritizing modern performance, advanced technology, and a refined driving experience. It offers significantly more power and better fuel efficiency in its top trims. However, the Mitsubishi Pajero stands as a compelling alternative for those seeking robust reliability and exceptional value at a much lower price point.
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Price Comparison
Starting at179,900 – 240,000 SAR124,452 – 126,416 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
Battery Size1.5 kWh—
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 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 Performance & Technology

The Ford Explorer clearly dominates in performance, boasting up to 400 hp and acceleration as quick as 5.5 seconds, coupled with a modern 10-speed automatic transmission.

2

Best for Value & Budget

For shoppers on a tighter budget, the Mitsubishi Pajero is the undeniable winner, with a starting price significantly lower than the Ford Explorer.

3

Best for Modern Family Comfort

The Ford Explorer offers a more spacious and comfortable cabin for seven passengers, thanks to its longer wheelbase and wider body, making it ideal for modern family trips.

4

Best for Proven Durability & Cargo

The Mitsubishi Pajero offers a simpler, robust build and a remarkably versatile trunk, providing up to 1,081 liters of maximum cargo space for those needing utility and reliability.

Pros & cons

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • Superior engine power (up to 400 hp)
  • Faster acceleration (as low as 5.5 seconds)
  • More advanced 10-speed automatic transmission
  • Better fuel efficiency (as low as 7.8 L/100km)
  • Larger, more spacious interior with a 3.0m wheelbase

Cons

  • Higher starting price point (from 179,900 SAR)
  • Smaller fuel tank capacity (67 L)
  • Less maximum cargo versatility compared to Pajero
  • Potentially higher running costs for top trims

Mitsubishi Pajero

Pros

  • Significantly more affordable starting price (from 124,452 SAR)
  • Larger maximum fuel tank capacity (up to 88 L)
  • Versatile 5 or 7-seat configuration
  • Significantly larger maximum trunk capacity (up to 1,081 L)
  • Simpler, robust mechanicals for proven reliability

Cons

  • Significantly lower engine power (max 189 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (as high as 12.7 seconds)
  • Less fuel-efficient (13 L/100km)
  • Older transmission with fewer gears (4-5 speeds)

Frequently Asked Questions

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

For families in KSA, the Ford Explorer is generally better if you prioritize modern comfort, advanced features, and strong performance, offering a spacious cabin and a standard 7-seat configuration. However, the Mitsubishi Pajero provides a robust and affordable alternative with flexible 5/7 seating and a proven track record. For a more refined and powerful family SUV, choose the Explorer.

Which SUV offers better performance, the Explorer or the Pajero?

The Ford Explorer offers significantly better performance. Its engine options deliver up to 400 hp and can achieve 0-100 km/h in as little as 5.5 seconds. In contrast, the Mitsubishi Pajero peaks at 189 hp with acceleration times around 12.5 seconds. For superior power and speed, the Ford Explorer is the clear winner.

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

The Ford Explorer is more fuel-efficient, with its best trims achieving as low as 7.8 L/100km. The Mitsubishi Pajero has a fuel economy of 13 L/100km across its range. If fuel consumption is a primary concern, the Ford Explorer offers better efficiency.

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

There's a substantial price difference. The Ford Explorer starts from 179,900 SAR, while the Mitsubishi Pajero starts at a much more accessible 124,452 SAR. The Pajero offers significant savings upfront, making it the more budget-friendly option.

Which has more cargo space, the Ford Explorer or Mitsubishi Pajero?

The Mitsubishi Pajero offers more maximum cargo space, with a versatile trunk that can expand up to 1,081 liters. The Ford Explorer provides a respectable 515 liters of trunk capacity. If maximizing cargo volume is your priority, the Pajero is the better choice.