If you’re shopping for a capable used off-road SUV in the UAE, two names likely keep coming up: the Mitsubishi Pajero and the Toyota Fortuner. Both have earned serious respect on desert tracks and city roads alike. But when you look at the Pajero price in UAE against what a used Fortuner costs, the picture gets interesting. Let’s break down how these two SUVs actually compare — from real-world dune performance to what you’ll spend on maintenance over the years.
Pajero Price in UAE vs Fortuner: What Do Used Models Cost in 2026?
Here’s what you can expect to pay on the used market right now. These are typical asking prices based on condition, mileage, and trim level.
Mitsubishi Pajero (2018–2020 models):
- Pajero 3.5L GLS (mid-spec): AED 55,000–75,000
- Pajero 3.8L GLS (higher trim): AED 70,000–90,000
- Pajero 3.5L base/lower trim: AED 42,000–58,000
Toyota Fortuner (2018–2020 models):
- Fortuner 2.7L EXR (4-cylinder): AED 65,000–80,000
- Fortuner 4.0L GXR (V6): AED 85,000–110,000
- Fortuner 2.7L base: AED 55,000–68,000
Right away, you’ll notice the Pajero generally sits lower on price for similar model years. That’s partly because Mitsubishi discontinued the Pajero (also known as the Montero in some markets) after the 2021 model year. The Fortuner, meanwhile, continues to receive updates from Toyota, which keeps demand — and prices — firmer.
For 2015–2017 models, the gap widens further. A used Pajero from this era can dip below AED 40,000, while the Fortuner price in UAE for the same years typically holds at AED 50,000–70,000 depending on the variant.
Resale Value: Which Off-Road SUV Holds Its Worth?
Let’s be transparent about this — Toyota wins the resale game in the UAE. It’s not an opinion; it’s what the data shows year after year.
A 2019 Fortuner GXR V6 that originally sold for around AED 155,000 now commands roughly AED 95,000–110,000. That’s about 65–70% value retention after six years. The Toyota badge, combined with the Fortuner’s ongoing production and massive parts network, supports this.
A 2019 Pajero 3.8L GLS, originally priced around AED 130,000–140,000, now sits closer to AED 70,000–85,000. That’s roughly 55–60% retention. Still reasonable, but noticeably lower.
What this means for you:
- If you plan to keep the car for 3+ years and then sell, the Fortuner will return more of your investment.
- If you’re buying to drive long-term (5+ years), the Pajero’s lower entry price gives you more car for less money upfront.
Desert Performance: Pajero vs Fortuner on the Dunes
This is where things get genuinely close — and where the Pajero arguably punches above its weight.
Mitsubishi Pajero: The Veteran Off-Roader
The Pajero’s Super Select 4WD-II system is legendary among off-road enthusiasts in the UAE. Here’s why it matters: you can switch between 2WD, full-time 4WD, and locked centre differential on the fly — even at highway speeds. That flexibility is something few SUVs in this price range offer.
- Ground clearance: 225mm — solid for dune approaches and wadi crossings
- Approach/departure angles: 36.6°/25° — respectable for a full-size SUV
- Engine: The 3.8L V6 produces 250 hp and 329 Nm of torque. Smooth power delivery helps maintain momentum on sand.
- Suspension: Independent front, multi-link rear with coil springs. This setup is comfortable on road and predictable off it.
Weekend desert regulars in the UAE have trusted the Pajero for decades. The Dakar Rally heritage isn’t just marketing — it translates into a chassis that handles soft sand with real confidence.
Toyota Fortuner: The Practical Performer
The Fortuner takes a different approach. It’s body-on-frame (shared with the Hilux platform), which gives it rugged durability but a slightly different character off-road.
- Ground clearance: 279mm — notably higher than the Pajero
- Approach/departure angles: 30°/22° (slightly tighter than the Pajero due to body design)
- Engine (V6): The 4.0L V6 makes 235 hp and 376 Nm of torque. Lower horsepower but more torque, which helps in deep sand.
- 4WD system: Part-time 4WD with a lockable centre diff. Functional but less sophisticated than the Pajero’s Super Select system.
The Fortuner’s extra ground clearance is a genuine advantage in rocky terrain and deeper ruts. However, its part-time 4WD system means you need to stop and engage 4H before hitting sand — something the Pajero handles more seamlessly.
The Honest Verdict on Off-Road Ability
For pure dune driving, the Pajero’s Super Select 4WD gives it an edge. For general off-road versatility — rocky trails, gravel roads, wet conditions — the Fortuner’s higher clearance and Hilux-based toughness make it very capable. Both will handle a typical UAE desert weekend without drama.
Spare Parts and Maintenance: The Real Running Costs
This is where your ownership experience can really differ. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what common maintenance items cost.
Routine service (oil change, filters, fluids — every 10,000 km):
- Pajero: AED 450–700 at independent garages; AED 800–1,200 at the dealership
- Fortuner: AED 400–600 at independent garages; AED 700–1,000 at the dealership
Brake pads (front set, parts + labour):
- Pajero: AED 350–550
- Fortuner: AED 300–500
Transmission fluid change:
- Pajero (5-speed auto): AED 600–900
- Fortuner (6-speed auto): AED 500–800
Timing belt (Pajero-specific — critical):
The Pajero 3.5L and 3.8L V6 engines use a timing belt, not a chain. Replacement is recommended every 90,000–100,000 km and costs AED 1,500–2,500 including the water pump (which you should replace at the same time). This is the single most important maintenance item on a used Pajero. If it hasn’t been done, factor it into your purchase price.
The Fortuner’s 4.0L V6, by contrast, uses a timing chain — no scheduled replacement needed under normal conditions.
Parts availability:
Toyota parts are everywhere in the UAE. Sharjah’s industrial area, Al Quoz in Dubai, Mussafah in Abu Dhabi — you’ll find Fortuner parts at dozens of suppliers. Pajero parts are also widely available but with slightly fewer aftermarket options. For both, genuine OEM parts are stocked by official distributors across all emirates.
If you’re exploring used cars under a specific budget in the UAE, remember to add estimated maintenance costs to the purchase price. It gives you a clearer picture of total ownership cost.
On-Road Comfort and Daily Driving
Since most of your driving will be on tarmac — school runs, Sheikh Zayed Road, trips to Al Ain — how do these two feel day-to-day?
Pajero: The independent rear suspension makes it noticeably smoother on highways. It handles more like a large sedan car than a truck-based SUV. Cabin noise is well-managed, and the GLS trims come with leather, cooled seats, and a sunroof in most configurations.
Fortuner: The Hilux-based chassis means a slightly firmer ride, especially over speed bumps. It’s not uncomfortable — just more noticeable. Third-row seating is available but tight for adults. The interior is functional, well-built, and ages gracefully (important for a used purchase).
For a family car that doubles as a weekend adventure vehicle, both work well. The Pajero leans slightly toward comfort; the Fortuner leans toward durability.
Which One Should You Go For?
Here’s a straightforward summary to help you decide:
Choose the Pajero if:
- You want more off-road capability per dirham spent
- You’re a regular dune driver who values the Super Select 4WD system
- Highway comfort matters to you
- You plan to keep the car long-term (5+ years) and aren’t focused on resale
- You’re comfortable staying on top of timing belt maintenance
Choose the Fortuner if:
- Resale value is a priority
- You want the lowest possible running costs and widest parts network
- You need a body-on-frame SUV that handles heavy use without complaint
- You prefer a vehicle still in active production with ongoing model updates
Find Your Next Inspection-Verified SUV on CarSwitch
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Browse inspection-verified Pajeros or trusted Fortuners on CarSwitch. Real people are here to help you through every step — smoothly from browsing to buying.
A used 2018–2020 Mitsubishi Pajero in the UAE typically ranges from AED 42,000 for a base 3.5L trim to around AED 90,000 for a well-equipped 3.8L GLS, depending on mileage and condition.
The Pajero’s Super Select 4WD-II system gives it an edge for dune driving since it can switch between 2WD and 4WD on the fly. The Fortuner has higher ground clearance and a rugged Hilux-based frame, making it strong on rocky terrain. Both handle typical UAE desert weekends well.
The Toyota Fortuner retains roughly 65–70% of its original value after six years, while the Pajero retains around 55–60%. Toyota’s larger dealer network and the Fortuner’s ongoing production support stronger resale demand.
The timing belt. Pajero 3.5L and 3.8L V6 engines require a timing belt replacement every 90,000–100,000 km, costing AED 1,500–2,500. If it hasn’t been done, factor this cost into your purchase. The Fortuner’s V6 uses a timing chain that doesn’t need scheduled replacement.
