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

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

⁦Ford Explorer⁩ VS ⁦Mitsubishi Pajero⁩: the verdict

The Ford Explorer emerges as the stronger contender for shoppers seeking a modern, powerful, and fuel-efficient family SUV. While the Mitsubishi Pajero offers a significantly more affordable entry point and legendary off-road capability, the Explorer's advanced powertrain and refined interior make it a compelling choice for daily driving and highway cruising.
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Price Comparison
Starting at19,750 – 23,900 OMR11,255 – 17,900 OMR
Engine & Power
Engine2,300 – 3,300 cc · 4 – 6 cyl3,470 – 3,828 cc · 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)285 – 400 hp184 – 250 hp
Torque (Nm)353 – 563 Nm303 – 330 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.5 – 7.1 s10.8 – 12.7 s
Top Speed (Km/h)180 – 237 km/h180 – 200 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)7.8 – 11.7 L/100km13 – 13.5 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 – 2,155 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 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-ToeHigh 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 CameraRear 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 Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSuperchargerTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsToolkitTorqueTorque SteerTouchscreen 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)AirbagsAnti theft alarmAudio 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 HandlesChrome Door MirrorsChrome Exhaust PipesChrome 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 MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFog Lamp - Front and RearFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestHeadlight WashersHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLeather Covered Door ArmrestLeather Gear Shift LeverLeather Hand BrakeLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLumbar SupportMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayNumber of SpeakersOdometerParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemRadioRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRoof RailsRoof SpoilerScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSkid PlatesSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTowing HookTraction ControlTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance & Modernity

With up to 400 hp and a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Explorer delivers a far more dynamic and efficient driving experience compared to the Pajero.

2

Best for Value & Ruggedness

Starting at a much lower price, the Pajero is an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who appreciate its proven reliability and traditional off-road prowess.

3

Best for Fuel Efficiency

Its advanced engines achieve a superior fuel economy as low as 7.8 L/100km, making it a more economical choice for long-term running costs.

4

Best for Cargo Flexibility

The Pajero offers a massive trunk capacity of up to 1,081 L, providing unmatched versatility for hauling gear or larger items.

Pros & cons

Ford Explorer

Pros

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

Cons

  • Higher purchase price
  • Smaller maximum trunk capacity
  • Less focus on extreme off-road ruggedness
  • No 3-door option

Mitsubishi Pajero

Pros

  • Significantly lower starting price
  • Higher maximum cargo capacity (up to 1,081 L)
  • Proven off-road durability
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (up to 88 L)
  • Available in a unique 3-door body style

Cons

  • Lower power and torque output
  • Slower acceleration and top speed
  • Worse fuel economy
  • Older 4-5 speed transmission
  • Smaller overall passenger space (shorter wheelbase)

Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Ford Explorer is generally better for modern families due to its superior performance, fuel efficiency, and comfortable 7-seat interior, making it ideal for daily commutes and road trips. While the Pajero also offers 7 seats and ruggedness, the Explorer provides a more refined and technologically advanced experience. For families prioritizing a contemporary SUV with strong on-road manners, the Explorer is the clear winner.

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

The Ford Explorer is significantly more fuel-efficient, achieving as low as 7.8 L/100km compared to the Mitsubishi Pajero's 13 L/100km. This makes the Explorer a more economical choice in the long run, especially with rising fuel costs. If fuel economy is a top priority, the Explorer stands out.

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

The Mitsubishi Pajero is considerably more affordable, with prices ranging from 11,255 – 17,900 OMR, while the Ford Explorer starts at 19,750 OMR and goes up to 23,900 OMR. The Pajero offers a much lower entry point, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers seeking a capable SUV.

Which offers better performance, the Explorer or Pajero?

The Ford Explorer offers substantially better performance, with engines producing up to 400 hp and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in as little as 5.5 seconds. The Mitsubishi Pajero, with a maximum of 250 hp and slower acceleration, is more focused on traditional durability than outright speed. For spirited driving and highway overtaking, the Explorer is the superior choice.

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

The Mitsubishi Pajero has a long-standing reputation for its rugged off-road capability, making it a strong choice for adventurous drivers. While the Ford Explorer offers All-Wheel Drive and is capable on rough terrain, the Pajero's traditional robust construction and proven durability often give it an edge in challenging off-road conditions. If serious off-roading is a primary concern, the Pajero is arguably the better option.