Ford Explorer vs Toyota Fortuner: Which Should You Buy in Kuwait?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Ford Explorer⁩ VS ⁦Toyota Fortuner⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Kuwait.

⁦Ford Explorer⁩ VS ⁦Toyota Fortuner⁩: the verdict

The Ford Explorer emerges as the superior choice for buyers in Kuwait prioritizing performance, interior refinement, and cargo capacity. Its powerful engine and spacious cabin cater well to families and those needing versatility. However, the Toyota Fortuner presents a compelling alternative for budget-conscious buyers, offering a lower entry price and a larger fuel tank for extended journeys.
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at0 – 15,000 KWD9,800 – 11,900 KWD
Engine & Power
Engine3,000 – 3,500 cc · 6 cyl2,700 – 4,000 cc · 4 – 6 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)290 – 400 hp164 – 235 hp
Torque (Nm)346 – 563 Nm245 – 376 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)5.5 – 9 s9 – 12 s
Top Speed (Km/h)173 – 237 km/h180 – 187 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)9.4 – 11.7 L/100km12.4 – 12.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity67 – 70 L80 L
Gears6 – 106
TransmissionAutomaticAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H5.0 / 5.0 / 5.0 m × 2.0 / 2.1 / 2,292 m × 1.8 / 1.8 / 1.8 m4.8 m × 1.9 m × 1.8 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.9 / 3.0 m2.8 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,970 – 2,132 kg1,524 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)515 – 1,239 L348 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity7 seats7 seats
Doors4 / 5 doors5 doors
Features
Key features
12V Socket360 Camera360-Degree Camera360-Degree Camera4WD Rotary Mode SwitchABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acceleration Skid ControlAcoustic Front WindshieldAcoustic HoodActive BonnetActive HeadrestsActive SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)Adaptive Brake LightsAdaptive Cruise ControlAir ConditioningAirbagsAlloy PedalsAlloy RimsAluminum WheelsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAppsAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXAUX InputBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored Bumper - Front and RearBody Colored GrilleBody KItBreakover AngleBumper Side StepCargo Area LightCargo Area Tie Down AnchorsCassette PlayerCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCenter Console BoxCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesCigar LighterClimate ControlClimate Controlled SeatsCollision DetectionCompassConversation Mirror with Sunglasses HolderCooled SeatsCrosswind AssistCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersCVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)Daytime Running LightsDoor Edge ProtectorDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDoor ReflectorsDual Exhaust TipDVD PlayerDynamic Stability ControlEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Anti-dazzling Room MirrorElectric CurtainElectric Door MirrorsElectric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofEmergency Brake AssistFabric SeatsFire ExtinguisherFirst Aid KitFog Lamp - Front and RearFog Lamps - Front OnlyFog LightsFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront BrakesFront BumperFront CameraFront Seat ArmrestGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIHeadroomHeated Cooled SeatsHeated SeatsHeel-and-ToeHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistHybridImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenIntelligent KeyiPod InterfaceISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLane Departure WarningLane Departure Warning SystemLeather Instrument PanelLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomLive Traffic InformationLock and Unlock Sensing Auto Electric Folding MirrorLumbar SupportManual ACMap Reading LampsMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayMulti-Information Display SizeNavigation SystemNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)OdometerOff Road KItOff-Road DampersOverhead Console Sunglass HolderPanoramic Glass RoofParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower WindowsPower Windows - Front and RearPremium Brand Audio SystemPush Button StartRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC ControlsRear AC VentsRear Audio ControlsRear BrakesRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Entertainment SystemRear Lcd screensRear Seat PocketsRear SpoilerRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRemote Windows DownRollover Stability ControlRoof RailsRoof SpoilerRun Flat TiresScuff PlateSD Card SupportSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSecurity SystemSide Impact BarSoft-closing DoorsSpare WheelSpeed LimiterSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemSteering Tilt AdjustmentSuperchargerTemperature DisplayTiptronic GearsToolkitTorqueTorque SteerTouchscreenTouchscreen SizeTowing HookTPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)Traction ControlTrailer Hitch with CoverTrip ComputerTrunk CapacityTurbochargerTyre Defect IndicatorTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayTyre Repair KitUSB PortVanity MirrorVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Voice Operated ControlWelcome LightWheel SizeWheelbaseWheels - AlloyWheels - SteelWinchWind BlockerWireless HeadphonesWood Trim
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored MirrorsCargo Area LightCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesChrome Plated Radiator GrilleCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDifferential LockDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDrive ComputerEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofFabric SeatsFog Lamp - Front and RearFog Lamps - Front OnlyFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitFootwell LightsFront Seat ArmrestGlove Box CoolingHalogen HeadlampsHeadlight WashersHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryKnee AirbagLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsManual ACMap Reading LampsMP3Multi-Information DisplayNavigation SystemNumber of SpeakersOdometerPaddle ShiftersParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRoof RailsRoof SpoilerScuff PlateSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSeat Adjustment - ManualSeatbelt pretensionerSteering Tilt AdjustmentTemperature DisplayTouchscreenTrip ComputerTrip MeterTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUrethane Steering WheelUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyXenon Headlamps

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Performance & Driving Dynamics

The Ford Explorer, with its robust engines offering up to 400 hp and quick 5.5-second acceleration, is the clear winner for an engaging driving experience.

2

Best for Families & Cargo

For families needing ample space, the Ford Explorer provides a significantly larger trunk capacity of up to 1,239 liters, easily accommodating luggage and gear.

3

Best for Value & Initial Cost

The Toyota Fortuner stands out for its more accessible starting price, beginning at 9,800 KWD, making it a more budget-friendly option for entry-level SUV buyers.

4

Best for Extended Journeys

With its larger 80-liter fuel tank, the Toyota Fortuner offers a greater range between refuels, making it ideal for longer trips across Kuwait and beyond.

Pros & cons

Ford Explorer

Pros

  • Exceptional power output (up to 400 hp)
  • Rapid acceleration (as quick as 5.5 seconds)
  • Vastly superior cargo space (up to 1,239 L)
  • More fuel-efficient base models (as low as 9.4 L/100km)
  • Modern 10-speed automatic transmission available

Cons

  • Higher price ceiling for top trims (up to 15,000 KWD)
  • Heavier vehicle (up to 2,132 kg)
  • Can be less fuel-efficient in higher trims (up to 11.7 L/100km)

Toyota Fortuner

Pros

  • Lower starting price point (from 9,800 KWD)
  • Larger fuel tank capacity (80 L)
  • Lighter kerb weight (1,524 kg)
  • More compact for urban driving (4.8m length)

Cons

  • Significantly less horsepower (max 235 hp)
  • Slower acceleration (up to 12 seconds)
  • Smaller trunk capacity (348 L)
  • Higher fuel consumption across all trims (from 12.4 L/100km)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Ford Explorer or Toyota Fortuner better for families in Kuwait?

The Ford Explorer is generally better for families due to its significantly larger trunk capacity, offering up to 1,239 liters of cargo space compared to the Fortuner's 348 liters. It also provides more power and a refined ride, making long journeys more comfortable. For families prioritizing space and comfort, the Explorer is the stronger choice.

Which SUV offers better performance, the Ford Explorer or Toyota Fortuner?

The Ford Explorer offers superior performance, with its top engine producing up to 400 hp and achieving acceleration as quick as 5.5 seconds. In contrast, the Toyota Fortuner's maximum output is 235 hp, with acceleration taking up to 12 seconds. If thrilling performance and quicker response are your priorities, the Explorer is the clear winner.

What are the main differences in fuel efficiency between the Ford Explorer and Toyota Fortuner?

The Ford Explorer can be more fuel-efficient, with its best trims achieving 9.4 L/100km, while the Toyota Fortuner starts at 12.4 L/100km. While the Explorer's higher trims consume more, its base models offer better economy. For overall fuel savings, especially in city driving, the Explorer's efficient options are preferable.

Which car, the Ford Explorer or Toyota Fortuner, has more cargo space?

The Ford Explorer offers significantly more cargo space than the Toyota Fortuner. The Explorer boasts a trunk capacity of up to 1,239 liters, which is ample for large families or extensive gear. The Fortuner, however, provides a much smaller 348 liters. For maximum utility and storage, the Explorer is the undisputed choice.