Mitsubishi Pajero vs Toyota RAV4
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Mitsubishi Pajero
Price TBC
SUV
Diesel
3.2L 4M41 DID Turbo Diesel
141kW
9.1 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
1069L
Toyota RAV4
From $28,490
SUV
Petrol
Petrol
107kW
7.7 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
577L
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mitsubishi Pajero and Toyota RAV4 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 0 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: core safety systems. Airbag count is 6 in the Mitsubishi Pajero and 7 in the Toyota RAV4.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Mitsubishi Pajero stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Toyota RAV4. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Mitsubishi Pajero gets fabric upholstery while the Toyota RAV4 offers cloth.
Drivetrain
The Mitsubishi Pajero uses a 3.2L 4M41 DID Turbo Diesel producing 141kW and 441Nm of torque, sent through a 5-speed automatic (invecs-ii sports mode) to a 4WD layout.
The Toyota RAV4 responds with a Petrol making 107kW and 187Nm, paired to a 6-speed manual driving the front wheels.
The Mitsubishi Pajero has the clear power advantage at 141kW vs 107kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mitsubishi Pajero measures 4,900mm long on a 2,780mm wheelbase, 330mm longer than the Toyota RAV4 at 4,570mm (2,660mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mitsubishi Pajero generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 1069L in the Mitsubishi Pajero and 577L in the Toyota RAV4, giving the Mitsubishi Pajero a 492L advantage. The Mitsubishi Pajero seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the Mitsubishi Pajero leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 800kg. That 2,200kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 11.4m
Based on 11.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,594/year for the Mitsubishi Pajero and $2,195/year for the Toyota RAV4. That is a $399 annual difference in favour of the Toyota RAV4.
Estimated annual total: $2,594 (Mitsubishi Pajero) vs $2,195 (Toyota RAV4). The Toyota RAV4 saves you roughly $399 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 200,000km (Mitsubishi Pajero) vs 3 years / 100,000km (Toyota RAV4). The Mitsubishi Pajero has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 10yr (Mitsubishi Pajero)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mitsubishi Pajero if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Mitsubishi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Toyota RAV4 if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mitsubishi Pajero takes 4 of 5 key spec categories. The Toyota RAV4 will save you roughly $399 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mitsubishi Pajero has a clear edge. The Mitsubishi Pajero adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mitsubishi Pajero and Toyota RAV4?
The Toyota RAV4 is the cheapest at $28,490 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Toyota RAV4 uses the least fuel at 7.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mitsubishi Pajero and Toyota RAV4 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Mitsubishi Pajero has the largest boot at 1069L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mitsubishi Pajero has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Mitsubishi Pajero has the longest warranty at 10 years / 200k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Mitsubishi Pajero makes the most power at 141kW.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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