Are you torn between the Fortuner vs Pajero? This detailed guide offers you a clear comparison between these two popular SUVs, carefully weighing engineering, comfort, and capability. Get ready to dive into real-world insights that address off-road performance, fuel efficiency 2025 trends, and overall ownership costs.
How to Choose Between These 2025 SUVs
Understanding the key distinctions between the 2025 Fortuner and Pajero is essential when making your decision. You’ll find that our comprehensive overview touches on price positioning, seating, warranty coverage, and many other factors that matter to Gulf region drivers.
Key Differences in 2025 Models
Price Positioning:
The Fortuner starts at AED 38,500 / SAR 38,500, while the Pajero is priced slightly higher at AED 41,200 / SAR 41,200. This price difference might reflect variations in features and overall build quality.
Seating Capacity:
Both models comfortably accommodate 7 passengers, making them ideal for family SUV comparisons in the GCC market.
Warranty Coverage:
The Fortuner offers a solid 5-year warranty, whereas the Pajero comes with a 4-year package. This difference can significantly impact your long-term maintenance costs.
Performance Breakdown
Engine Specifications
A close look at the engine details can help you decide which SUV suits your lifestyle:
Feature | 2025 Fortuner 2.8L Diesel | 2025 Pajero 3.2L DI-D |
|---|---|---|
Power Output | 204hp | 190hp |
Torque | 500Nm | 441Nm |
Fuel Economy | 13.8km/L | 12.1km/L |
This table clearly highlights differences in power output and fuel efficiency, critical aspects when considering long drives or off-road performance in challenging terrains.
Off-Road Capabilities
Both models boast impressive off-road skills, though their approaches differ:
Fortuner’s System:
It comes equipped with a terrain response system that includes rock crawl mode, sand traction control, and hill descent assist. These features make it a reliable companion on rugged trails.
Pajero’s Advantage:
Mitsubishi’s Super Select 4WD-II offers specialized modes, like a 4HLc mode optimized for loose surfaces, and even allows you to switch between 2WD and 4WD at speed, a feature that could boost confidence on desert drives.
Daily Driving Experience Compared
When evaluating cabin comfort and practical features, it is important to think about your everyday needs and the technology that supports your journey.
Cabin Comfort Features
Modern SUVs should make every drive enjoyable, and here’s how these models compare:
Fortuner Advantages:
A responsive 9-inch touchscreen featuring wireless Android Auto, ventilated front seats to keep you comfortable in the Gulf heat, and 8 USB-C ports to keep your devices charged.
Pajero Highlights:
It boasts premium leather upholstery for a touch of luxury, a 12-speaker Dynaudio system that delivers superb sound quality, and dual-zone climate control ensuring every passenger enjoys the ride.
Cargo Space Practicality
Practicality is key for many drivers:
Maximum Luggage Capacity:
The Fortuner offers a maximum capacity of 1,080L (with seats folded), while the Pajero pushes the limit with 1,268L. This could be a deciding factor if you often travel with bulky luggage.
Innovative Storage Solutions:
Both SUVs come with smart underfloor compartments. Additionally, the Pajero has standard roof rails (an option available on the Fortuner) to facilitate extra cargo during long trips.
Ownership Costs Analysis
Owning a modern SUV means not just enjoying its features but also being mindful of its upkeep and eventual resale value.
Maintenance Requirements
Compare the service intervals to plan your yearly expenses:
Fortuner:
Service is scheduled every 15,000km, keeping maintenance manageable. In the UAE, a 3-year service package costs around AED 1,200 / SAR 1,200.
Pajero:
Requires service every 10,000km, possibly leading to more frequent visits to the dealership. Its same 3-year package is approximately AED 1,650 / SAR 1,650, reflecting a slight premium for additional tuning and checks.
Resale Value Projections
Resale value is a key element in your purchase decision:
Fortuner:
Expected to retain about 68% of its original value after 3 years, a reassuring metric for buyers who consider long-term value.
Pajero:
With a residual value around 62%, it still offers good returns but may lag behind when it comes to long-term investment prospects.
Technology & Safety Updates
Staying abreast of technology is crucial for safety and entertainment. Both vehicles present an array of driver assistance features and infotainment improvements.
Driver Assistance Systems
As you compare these vehicles, note the balance of standard and exclusive features:
Shared Innovations:
Both SUVs include adaptive cruise control, 360-degree cameras, and emergency braking, which enhance your driving safety on busy roads.
Fortuner’s Exclusive Tech:
It offers lane tracing assist and parking collision avoidance, features that add an extra layer of safety especially in urban settings.
Pajero’s Specialty:
Comes with ultrasonic misacceleration mitigation and night pedestrian detection, designed to improve response time and safety in low-visibility conditions.
Infotainment Comparison
Staying connected is easier with the latest in-car technology:
Platform | Fortuner | Pajero |
|---|---|---|
Screen Size | 9 inches | 8 inches |
Voice Commands | Supports bilingual English/Arabic | English-only |
Navigation | Built-in live traffic updates | Offline map capabilities |
Audio | JBL Premium sound system | Dynaudio 3D audio system |
This table helps you understand the subtle differences in connectivity and entertainment, allowing you to pick the system that best matches your tech-savvy lifestyle.
Final Purchase Recommendations
Choosing between the Fortuner and Pajero depends on your driving habits and needs. Think about the environment where you mostly drive and how often you venture off the beaten path.
Best for Urban Commuters
Consider the Fortuner if you:
Value fuel efficiency and modern connectivity features that suit city commutes.
Appreciate a tight turning radius (5.6m compared to Pajero’s 6.2m), which is ideal for maneuvering in tight urban spaces.
Seek a blend of off-road performance and refined, daily usability that aligns with busy lifestyles in dynamic urban hubs.
Ideal for Adventure Seekers
The Pajero could be your top choice if you:
Plan frequent desert drives and require a vehicle with superior off-road capabilities, including a higher water wading depth (700mm versus 600mm in the Fortuner).
Value robust mechanical durability and are looking for a proven system that performs well in the most challenging environments.
Want a car that offers spacious interiors and advanced safety features suitable for long journeys across diverse terrains.
FAQ
Q1:What factors should I consider when comparing off-road performance between the Fortuner and Pajero?
When comparing the off-road performance of these SUVs, think about the type of terrains you mostly encounter. You should consider features like rock crawl modes, sand traction control, and the ability to switch between 2WD and 4WD modes. Assess how each system adapts to uneven surfaces and steep slopes, which is key for desert or rugged trail driving. The Fortuner and Pajero both offer unique systems tailored for challenging environments, ensuring that you have reliable traction and stability. Ultimately, your choice depends on which system aligns best with your typical driving conditions in the GCC region.
Q2:How do the maintenance costs differ between the two models in the Gulf region?
Maintenance costs can vary notably between the two vehicles due to service intervals and package prices. The Fortuner requires maintenance every 15,000km and a 3-year service package is approximately AED 1,200 / SAR 1,200, making it more budget-friendly in the long run. On the other hand, the Pajero's more frequent service interval every 10,000km coupled with a 3-year cost of about AED 1,650 / SAR 1,650 might increase your overall expenses. Consider how each schedule fits into your routine and budget, especially if you plan extensive driving in harsh conditions. Smaller maintenance intervals might be a worthwhile trade-off if you value having up-to-date mechanical checks.
Q3:Which SUV offers better long-term resale value?
Resale value is a critical consideration when investing in a new SUV. The Fortuner is expected to retain about 68% of its value after three years, which suggests a strong market presence in the Gulf region. In contrast, the Pajero is estimated to hold around 62% of its value, reflecting slightly higher depreciation. This difference could influence your decision if you plan to sell or upgrade your vehicle in a few years. It’s worth thinking about how resale value aligns with both your short-term needs and long-term financial planning.
Q4:What are the key technology features that set these SUVs apart?
Both the Fortuner and Pajero come equipped with a robust set of technology and safety features, but they have distinct differences. The Fortuner offers a larger, more responsive touchscreen, bilingual voice command capabilities, and features like lane tracing assist and parking collision avoidance. Meanwhile, the Pajero focuses on infotainment systems that include premium audio and unique safety detectors like night pedestrian detection. You should weigh these features based on how well they complement your driving style and priorities. Ultimately, the technology that enhances your comfort and security should play a major role in your decision-making process.
This article is for reference only. Please follow the latest local laws and regulations.
Read More:
Which Toyota Car Is the Best? 2025 Buyer’s Guide
Senior Writer The quest for automotive knowledge began as soon as the earliest memories. Various sources information, even questionable ones, have been explored including video games, television, magazines, or even internet forums. Still stuck in that rabbit hole.
