What To Know
- Additionally, the Explorer offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,600 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,800 lbs, making it a versatile choice for towing and hauling.
- The interior is well-appointed with high-quality materials and features such as a SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system.
- The Mitsubishi Montero Sport offers a comfortable cabin, but it falls short in terms of space and amenities compared to the Explorer.
The Ford Explorer and Mitsubishi Montero Sport are two iconic SUVs that have earned a reputation for their ruggedness, performance, and versatility. Both vehicles have a long history of excellence, but which one emerges as the superior choice? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of these SUVs, providing valuable insights to help you make an informed decision.
Performance and Engine Options: Power and Efficiency Under the Hood
The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, a 3.0L EcoBoost turbocharged V6 engine that produces 365 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.3L hybrid V6 engine that combines power and efficiency.
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport, on the other hand, is powered by a 3.0L V6 engine that generates 181 horsepower and 189 lb-ft of torque. While capable, it falls short in terms of power and efficiency compared to the Explorer’s engine options.
Capability and Off-Road Prowess: Conquering Rugged Terrains
The Ford Explorer and Mitsubishi Montero Sport are both capable off-road performers. The Explorer features Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System, enabling you to tackle various terrains with ease. Additionally, the Explorer offers a maximum towing capacity of up to 5,600 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,800 lbs, making it a versatile choice for towing and hauling.
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport also boasts impressive off-road capabilities with its Super Select 4WD-II system and Multi-Terrain Select. However, its towing and payload capacities are lower, with a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,300 lbs.
Comfort and Convenience: Enhancing Your Driving Experience
The Ford Explorer prioritizes comfort and convenience with its spacious cabin, offering ample legroom and headroom for all passengers. The interior is well-appointed with high-quality materials and features such as a SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system.
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport offers a comfortable cabin, but it falls short in terms of space and amenities compared to the Explorer. The infotainment system is less intuitive, and the overall interior design feels dated.
Safety Features: Ensuring Your Peace of Mind
The Ford Explorer comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, the Explorer offers a 360-degree camera system and automatic emergency braking.
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport also offers a range of safety features, such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacks some of the more advanced features found in the Explorer.
Fuel Efficiency and Range: Balancing Performance and Economy
The Ford Explorer with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine achieves an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the 3.0L EcoBoost engine delivers 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The hybrid V6 engine provides an impressive 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The Mitsubishi Montero Sport, with its 3.0L V6 engine, delivers an EPA-estimated 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. While comparable to the Explorer’s fuel efficiency, the Explorer offers a more diverse range of engine options, including the fuel-efficient hybrid V6.
Reliability and Maintenance: Long-Term Ownership Considerations
The Ford Explorer has a solid reputation for reliability, with J.D. Power giving it a score of 83 out of 100 for overall dependability. The Mitsubishi Montero Sport, on the other hand, has a lower reliability rating, with a score of 76 out of 100 from J.D. Power.
In terms of maintenance costs, the Ford Explorer is generally more affordable to maintain than the Mitsubishi Montero Sport. The Explorer’s parts and labor costs are typically lower, making it a more cost-effective choice over the long term.
Takeaways: Unveiling the Ultimate Choice
The Ford Explorer and Mitsubishi Montero Sport are both capable SUVs with their own strengths and weaknesses. However, the Explorer emerges as the superior choice due to its more powerful and efficient engine options, superior off-road capabilities, enhanced comfort and convenience features, comprehensive safety suite, and better fuel efficiency. The Explorer also boasts higher reliability ratings and lower maintenance costs, making it a more dependable and cost-effective choice in the long run.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which vehicle has better towing and payload capacities?
A: The Ford Explorer offers superior towing and payload capacities, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 lbs and a maximum payload capacity of 1,800 lbs, compared to the Mitsubishi Montero Sport’s 3,500 lbs towing capacity and 1,300 lbs payload capacity.
Q: Does the Mitsubishi Montero Sport have a more spacious cabin than the Ford Explorer?
A: No, the Ford Explorer offers a more spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, while the Mitsubishi Montero Sport has a smaller cabin with less space.
Q: Which vehicle has a more advanced infotainment system?
A: The Ford Explorer features a more advanced infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, SYNC 3 technology, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system, while the Mitsubishi Montero Sport’s infotainment system is less intuitive and offers fewer features.