What To Know
- Both the Honda CR-V and the Mitsubishi Pajero come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to ensure the well-being of occupants.
- Its turbocharged engine and CVT transmission work together to deliver an impressive EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
- The CR-V excels in terms of fuel efficiency, on-road performance, and comfort, while the Pajero shines in off-road capability and ruggedness.
In the realm of compact SUVs, two stalwarts stand out: the Honda CR-V and the Mitsubishi Pajero. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, performance, and ruggedness, catering to the needs of adventure-seekers and urban commuters alike. This comprehensive comparison delves into the intricacies of each SUV, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and unique characteristics to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Styling
The Honda CR-V exudes a sleek and contemporary design, with sharp lines and a bold front fascia. Its sloping roofline adds a touch of sportiness, complemented by sleek LED headlights and a prominent grille.
In contrast, the Mitsubishi Pajero embraces a more rugged and utilitarian aesthetic. Its boxy silhouette and muscular fenders convey a sense of off-road prowess. The prominent chrome accents and aggressive front fascia give it a commanding presence.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the Honda CR-V offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The dashboard layout is intuitive, with a user-friendly infotainment system and ample storage compartments. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long journeys.
The Mitsubishi Pajero’s interior is equally spacious, but it has a more utilitarian feel. The dashboard is less refined, with a simpler infotainment system. However, the seats are comfortable, and the rear seats offer ample legroom and headroom.
Performance and Handling
Under the hood, the Honda CR-V comes equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient power delivery.
The Mitsubishi Pajero, on the other hand, is powered by a 3.0-liter V6 engine that generates 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. While the Pajero’s engine is less powerful than the CR-V’s, it offers more low-end torque, making it better suited for off-road adventures.
Off-Road Capabilities
When it comes to off-road prowess, the Mitsubishi Pajero takes the lead. Its rugged construction, four-wheel drive system, and generous ground clearance make it a capable off-roader.
The Honda CR-V, while not as capable as the Pajero, still offers decent off-road capabilities. Its intelligent all-wheel drive system and ground clearance of 8.2 inches allow it to tackle light off-road trails with ease.
Safety Features
Both the Honda CR-V and the Mitsubishi Pajero come equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features to ensure the well-being of occupants. These features include airbags, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and traction control.
Additionally, the Honda CR-V offers a range of advanced safety features, such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.
Fuel Efficiency
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V has the upper hand. Its turbocharged engine and CVT transmission work together to deliver an impressive EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
The Mitsubishi Pajero, with its larger V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, is less fuel-efficient. It returns an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Price and Value
The Honda CR-V has a starting price of $26,800, while the Mitsubishi Pajero starts at $29,990. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options, allowing buyers to customize their SUVs to their specific needs and budget.
Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Honda CR-V and the Mitsubishi Pajero depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, on-road performance, and a comfortable interior, the Honda CR-V is an excellent choice.
However, if you value off-road capability, ruggedness, and a more utilitarian interior, the Mitsubishi Pajero is the better option.
The Bottom Line
The Honda CR-V and the Mitsubishi Pajero represent two distinct approaches to the compact SUV segment. The CR-V excels in terms of fuel efficiency, on-road performance, and comfort, while the Pajero shines in off-road capability and ruggedness.
By carefully considering your priorities and lifestyle, you can choose the SUV that best suits your needs and provides years of reliable service.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Mitsubishi Pajero has a more powerful engine, with a 3.0-liter V6 that generates 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, compared to the Honda CR-V’s 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Honda CR-V is more fuel-efficient, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, compared to the Mitsubishi Pajero’s 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: Both SUVs offer spacious interiors, with the Mitsubishi Pajero having slightly more legroom and headroom in the rear seats. However, the Honda CR-V has a more user-friendly infotainment system and ample storage compartments.