2026 MG U9 review: Prototype drive

<blockquote> Stop dreaming, start driving! childcareman.xyz: Expert car reviews that unlock real savings and personalized service for your next new car. </blockquote >

<strong > Option 2 (Intriguing/Questioning):</strong >

<blockquote> Tired of car buying chaos? childcareman.xyz cuts through the noise with expert reviews, personalized service, and savings you can bank on. Discover your perfect new car today. </blockquote >

<strong > Option 3 (Bold/Direct):</strong >

<blockquote> Don’t just buy a car, conquer the road! childcareman.xyz delivers the expert reviews, personalized guidance, and unbeatable savings you deserve on your next new car. </blockquote >

MG wants a piece of the ute pie in Australia and its ute-nsil of choice is this – theU9.

Forget the usual suspects. The MG U9, built on the robust LDV Terron 9 platform, muscles into the 4×4 dual-cab arena. But it’s not just another workhorse. Think refined comfort meeting rugged capability. Beneath the hood, a dependable four-cylinder turbo-diesel roars. Inside, a premium interior elevates the experience beyond utilitarian. Consider the U9 a stylish contender ready to challenge the Toyota HiLux, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-Max.

The price tags tell a similar story: a compelling $52,990 drive-away for the base model, soaring to $60,990 drive-away for the top-tier Explore Pro. This positions it squarely against the rising tide of Chinese contenders like the BYD Shark 6 and GWM Cannon Alpha, promising a head-to-head battle for market dominance.

MG’s audacious ambition to crack Australia’s top-selling auto brands by 2030 rests on the broad shoulders of one vehicle: its upcoming ute. This isn’t just another model launch; it’s a high-stakes gamble. Consider this: Down Under, 4×4 utes aren’t niche players; they’re titans, commanding nearly a fifth of all new vehicle sales – a staggering 200,000+ units last year alone. If MG wants a piece of the Australian automotive throne, this ute needs to be a king.

No pressure, then.

Nestled within the dramatic landscape of Glenworth Valley, New South Wales, the stakes felt palpable. MG had summoned us there a sneak peek behind the curtain. Before the U9 graces driveways nationwide in Q4, we wrestled the wheel of pre-production models, a tantalizing taste of what’s to come during a national launch event.

How much does the MG U9 cost?

MG Motor throws down the gauntlet in Australia, pricing its debut ute head-to-head with bare-bones Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux models, defying expectations and igniting a price war.

| Model | Drive-away price | | — | — | | 2026 MG U9 Explore | $52,990 | | 2026 MG U9 Explore X | $55,990 | | 2026 MG U9 Explore Pro | $60,990 |

To see how the MG U9 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

Let us help you find your new car

Buy your new car without the stress. It’s fast, simple and completely free.

"Travis and his team delivered exceptional service once again! This is the second time I’ve entrusted them with my business, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend them to anyone seeking a reliable and top-notch experience."

Craig C.

Purchased a Ford Ranger in Sunshine Coast, QLD

childcareman.xyz helped Craig save $7,224 on his Ford Ranger, now let us save you on your next new car.

Get your BEST price

What is the MG U9 like on the inside?

You’ll be hard pressed to find a more inviting ute interior at this price point.

Forget squeezing in. Hoisting yourself into the U9 is like entering a different class of vehicle. Suddenly, that familiar dual-cab crampedness vanishes, replaced by an expansive cabin that feels more like a Texan ranch than a typical truck. Think less Ranger, more ‘hold my Stetson’.

Sink into the Embrace: These seats don’t just hold you; they welcome you, regardless of your build. And the center console? Think of it as your command center, stretching out with room for everything. Our Explore Pro, swathed in a cream suede headliner and crowned with a panoramic sunroof, felt less like a car and more like a light-filled loft, an airy expanse where the miles simply melt away.

The cabin’s design thoughtfully weds rugged functionality and upscale finishes, immediately capturing your gaze. A tactile delight, the dashboard and upper door panels are swathed in supple, soft-touch plastics. Where your hands naturally fall key touch points you’ll discover the luxurious embrace of genuine leather (Explore Pro) or a convincingly crafted, animal-friendly alternative.

The U9 exudes a premium feel that eclipses most competitors in its class, perhaps with the exception of the BYD Shark 6. Unlike the over-the-top GWM Cannon Alpha, however, the U9 achieves this sophistication with understated elegance.

However, I hold concerns about the hardiness of the U9’s interior over the long haul.

Even with the "handle with care" sticker slapped on pre-production models, cracks are already showing in the U9’s armor. One electric parking brake switch staged a daring escape, abandoning its post. Meanwhile, a symphony of creaks emanated from seats and door cards, hinting at a rushed assembly or, perhaps, a deeper design flaw lurking beneath the surface.

These issues may only concern prototype versions, but they also may not.

Forget flimsy builds the U9 throws a knockout punch with its standard features. Sink into the Explore Pro and discover power-adjustable seats, a haven of heat, breezy ventilation, and a massage function for both front and rear passengers. Across the entire U9 lineup, a dazzling duo of 12.3-inch displays awaits, ready to impress.

Imagine stepping into the future: a seamless digital cockpit where the infotainment and instrument display merge into a single, expansive panel – a signature design echoing throughout MG’s latest lineup.

Beneath its minimalist, modern facade lies a powerhouse of tech, though unlocking its full potential, a world of connected features like Amazon Music, satellite navigation, and over-the-air updates, requires venturing into the Explore X or Explore Pro models.

Cut the cord, keep the connection. Wireless smartphone mirroring comes standard, or plug in via USB-A or USB-C. Craving a clutter-free console? Step up to the Explore X and juice up wirelessly with its integrated charging pad.

Forget sleek aesthetics; Ute drivers demand practicality. MG gets it. The U9’s command center isn’t about winning beauty contests, it’s about getting the job done. Think gloves-on usability: a responsive touchscreen paired with a row of chunky, physical buttons dedicated to blasting the AC or skipping tracks. Finally, a design that understands that real work happens behind the wheel, not in a showroom.

Forget fumbling for hidden knobs. Volume, cruise, and mirror controls are intuitively placed, a welcome change from the scavenger hunt some cars demand. And the fighter jet-inspired gear lever? It’s not just a gear selector; it’s a cockpit centerpiece that commands attention.

For a vehicle as broad as the U9, the front cabin storage feels surprisingly stingy, the split-level door bins being a lone bright spot in an otherwise underwhelming landscape of cubbies.

The glovebox? Let’s just say packing a lunch is an Olympic sport. And while other utes offer clever stash spots above the glove compartment, this one leaves you wanting. Think of it as a minimalist’s dream…or a storage-challenged reality.

Even better, the U9 doesn’t skimp on comfort in the second row, delivering premium value all around.

The back seats offer stretch-out space for a crew of tradies – think ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room. Stowing steel-capped boots under the front seats? That’s a tighter squeeze. The optional sunroof eats slightly into overhead space, but the extra light and air are worth the trade.

Passengers in the back? They’ll think they’re in first class. Forget fighting over charging ports – USB outlets abound. Personal climate control? Sorted, thanks to dedicated air vents. Stash your travel essentials in the map pockets and door bins. Need a steady hand on those winding roads? B-pillar grab handles have you covered. And when it’s time to relax, sink into the folding center armrest, complete with cupholders for your beverage of choice. For a ‘ute’, it’s surprisingly luxurious. Upgrade to the Explore Pro, and rear passengers even get heated seats – talk about travelling in style!

While the U9 might miss out on the under-seat storage cleverness of a Kia Tasman, don’t let that fool you. This vehicle’s overall practicality more than makes up for it.

Imagine a cavernous cargo hold in your U9, effortlessly expanded by ‘MultiFold’ rear seats that vanish into a flat plane. Need even MORE room? The front passenger seat folds backward, creating a continuous, sprawling surface ready for adventure.

The Explore Pro’s game-changing MG Smart Hatch ($5500) isn’t just a feature; it’s a transformation. Watch as the rear window silently retreats, and the barrier between cabin and cargo bed vanishes, folding forward to create a cavernous, uninterrupted space. Suddenly, weekend adventures and heavy-duty hauls become effortlessly achievable.

The U9’s tailgate isn’t just a gate, it’s a backyard waiting to happen. Picture this: a power-operated portal unfolding to reveal a built-in, fold-down step. And because every great hangout needs refreshments, cupholders are integrated right in. It’s like the Ford F-150 and GWM Cannon tailgates, but reimagined for ultimate convenience and a bit more fun.

MG prioritizes passenger comfort in the U9, but cargo space plays second fiddle – unless you unlock the Smart Hatch’s hidden potential.

Even better, the cargo area swallows a standard Aussie pallet whole! Integrated tie-down points and versatile sliding slats mean even the trickiest cargo stays put.

A full-size spare wheel is fitted underneath the tub.

| Dimensions | MG U9 | | — | — | | Length | 5500mm | | Width | 2265mm | | Height | 1874mm | | Wheelbase | 3300mm | | Tub volume | 1053L (approx.) | | Tub length | 1600mm | | Tub width | 1230mm | | Tub depth | 535mm |

To see how the MG U9 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

Beneath their distinct badges, the MG U9 and LDV Terron 9 harbor the same potent heart: a 2.5-liter turbo-diesel engine, seamlessly paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a robust four-wheel-drive system. While it concedes a mere 3kW in peak power, this shared powertrain confidently outmuscles the popular four-cylinder diesels found in titans like the HiLux and Ranger, proving that sometimes, the best thingsdocome in the same package.

LDV Terron 9 engine shown

| Specifications | MG U9 | | — | — | |Engine| 2.5L 4cyl turbo-diesel | |Power| 160kW | |Torque| 520Nm | |Transmission| 8-speed automatic | |Drive type| Four-wheel drive | |Fuel economy (claimed)| 7.9L/100km | |CO2 emissions (claimed)| 208g/km | |Fuel tank| 80L | |Weight| 2450-2550kg | |Payload| 770-870kg | |Braked towing capacity| 3500kg | |Gross vehicle mass (GVM)| 3320kg | |Gross combination mass (GCM)| 6500kg |

The U9’s spec sheet reads like a four-cylinder dual-cab clone. Towing? Check. Fuel economy? Middle of the pack. But numbers lie. There’s an X-factor here, a certain something the U9 possesses that transcends mere capabilities. While it may not win on paper, get behind the wheel and feel the difference.

However, the U9 falters when hauling serious weight. While competitors like the HiLux, Ranger, Triton, BT-50, D-Max, and Navara – all in the same price bracket – boast payload capacities between 900kg and 1100kg, the U9 is left playing catch-up.

To see how the MG U9 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

How does the MG U9 drive?

The U9’s debut drive was a tightly controlled experience, making a full assessment tricky. However, even within those limitations, MG’s new ute left a decidedly positive mark.

Twenty minutes. That’s all we had. Twenty minutes to wrestle the pre-production beast through a gauntlet of challenges. We crawled over rocks in low gear, felt the satisfying tug of a trailer straining against gravity, splashed our way through a shallow river, and tasted what "soft-roading" truly meant. It was a fleeting glimpse, a tantalizing sample, but those twenty minutes screamed potential.

"I can’t tell you how the U9 tears up the tarmac at speed, or even cruises above a gentle 50km/h. But what Icanshare is how this beast tackles the rugged Aussie outback."

The turbo-diesel purrs to life, a civilized rumble that quickly fades to a near-silent hum within the cabin. No boisterous roar here, just a smooth, confident thrum that whispers of power held in reserve.

The U9 cabin offers a sanctuary, a hushed retreat from the rugged world outside. While not achieving the near-silent serenity of the BYD Shark 6’s electric hum or the Kia Tasman’s technological hush, it far surpasses the typical din expected from a workaday dual-cab 4×4.

Don’t let the U9’s hushed demeanor fool you; this machine’s ready to run. Beneath the surface hums a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, churning out a respectable 160kW and a hefty 520Nm of torque – numbers that hold their own in the arena. Just remember, the U9 packs a punch, tipping the scales at a substantial 2.5 tonnes.

The vehicle shrugged off the 2660kg caravan like it was nothing, hauling it around the campground with unflinching ease. Forget the jerky, back-and-forth dance of some tow vehicles; this one remained rock-steady. And no need to floor it just to keep moving – it pulled with confident, effortless grace.

"That feather-light steering isn’t just for show; it’s your secret weapon when navigating tight spots with that extra length in tow. And forget straining your neck – simply tap into the infotainment system to access crystal-clear trailer camera views, turning blind spots into a panoramic vista of what’s behind."

Whether these characteristics translate to comfortable high-speed towing remains to be seen.

Trusted Reviews, Smarter Choices, Better Prices

<blockquote> Stop dreaming, start driving. Childcareman.xyz: Expert reviews, personalized car buying, and real savings all in one place. Find your perfect new car today. </blockquote >

<strong > Option 2 (Intriguedriven):</strong >

<blockquote> Beyond the dealership door: Childcareman.xyz unlocks your perfect new car. Trusted reviews, bespoke service, and savings you can’t ignore. </blockquote >

<strong > Option 3 (Problem/Solution):</strong >

<blockquote> Overwhelmed by car buying? Childcareman.xyz simplifies everything. Expert reviews, personalized advice, and guaranteed savings on your dream car. </blockquote >

<strong > Option 4 (Bold and Direct):</strong >

<blockquote> Don’t just buy a car. Conquer it. Childcareman.xyz delivers expert reviews, customized service, and the best deals on your next new ride. </blockquote >

View showroom

Find a deal

The U9’s engine delivers a satisfying punch, seamlessly partnered with an eight-speed automatic that’s always ready for action. Gear changes are silken smooth around town, and paddle shifters offer fingertip control when hauling heavy loads. However, those seeking instant response from manual shifts might find the transmission a touch hesitant.

Forget the drivetrain for a second. What truly stunned me during this U9 preview wasn’t its mechanical prowess, but the sheer, blissful comfort it offered while devouring harsh terrain. This ute doesn’t just handle bumps; it glides over them.

Gone are the Terron 9’s agricultural roots! MG has swapped the bouncy leaf springs and truck-like live axle for a sophisticated multi-link independent rear suspension, a move that transforms the ride. Forget lumbering; this Terron 9 now dances with a newfound agility that blurs the line between SUV and sports car.

Forget bone-jarring jolts. The U9 doesn’t just navigate rough terrain; it glides. Unlike its leaf-sprung competitors, which bounce and buck over every imperfection, the U9 delivers a ride so plush, it cocoons occupants from the brutality of the trail. Even the deepest ruts and corrugations are subtly absorbed, leaving you feeling refreshed, not rattled.

Forget bone-jarring rides and white-knuckle climbs. The U9 floats over brutal terrain thanks to a suspension system so plush, you might forget you’re off-road. And while youmightsacrifice a smidge of payload for that cloud-like comfort, the U9 throws you a lifeline of ingenious tech and rugged mechanical features designed to conquer any off-road obstacle with ease.

Every model boasts selectable four-wheel drive, complete with a low-range transfer case, specialized off-road modes, and a rear differential lock. Crave the ultimate grip? The Explore Pro adds a front differential lock to its arsenal, creating a beast that laughs in the face of challenging terrain, all while cocooning you in surprising luxury.

Beyond the blacktop, the U9 sheds its urban facade and reveals a surprisingly rugged soul. It confidently claws through loose gravel and dances across slick surfaces, never losing its grip. Shallow streams? Mere puddles in its path, conquered with effortless grace.

The U9’s off-road aspirations are quickly checked by a wading depth of just 550mm – a shallow puddle for a vehicle in this class. And with a mere 220mm of ground clearance, you’ll be tiptoeing, not trailblazing, over rough terrain.

Conquer any terrain with MG’s ‘Off-road Expert’! This smart infotainment app transforms your dashboard into a command center, delivering a bird’s-eye view of your vehicle with precise wheel track visuals. Dominate challenging landscapes using fingertip access to crawl control, hill descent control, and ESC – power and precision, unleashed.

The U9’s true off-road prowess remains shrouded until we unleash it on punishing terrain. However, initial glimpses suggest a beast yearning to break free.

| Off-road dimensions | MG U9 | | — | — | | Track front and rear | 1685mm | | Ground clearance | 220mm | | Approach angle | 29 degrees | | Departure angle | 25 degrees | | Ramp breakover angle | 20 degrees | | Wading depth | 550mm |

To see how the MG U9 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

What do you get?

The Aussie pickup scene is about to get a jolt! MG is unleashing its U9 dual-cab 4×4, landing Down Under in three flavors: the no-nonsense Explore, the feature-packed Explore X, and the top-dog Explore Pro. Get ready to rumble!

2025 MG U9 Explore equipment highlights:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Rain-sensing wipers
• LED headlights
• Heated side mirrors
• Painted tub liner
• Keyless entry with push button start
• 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• DAB+ digital radio
• Dual-zone climate control
• Microfibre leather steering wheel
• 6-way adjustable electric driver’s seat
• Artificial leather upholstery
• 6-speaker sound system

The Explore X adds:

• 19-inch alloy wheels
• LED rear tub lights
• Tub cargo slide rail with hook
• Electric folding side mirrors
• Heated steering wheel
• 6-way adjustable electric passenger’s seat
• Heated front seats
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
• Amazon music
• Over-the-air updates
• Voice control
• Satellite navigation
• Wireless phone charger

The Explore Pro adds:

• 20-inch alloy wheels
• Black window trim
• Black roof rails
• Electric tailgate
• 64-colour ambient lighting
• Suede headliner
• Electric panoramic sunroof
• 8-way adjustable electric driver’s seat

• incl. lumbar, ventilation and massage functions

• Leather upholstery
• Heated rear outboard seats
• Trailer reversing assist
• 8-speaker JBL sound system

Optional Electrically Foldable Rear Cabin Access Panel

To see how the MG U9 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

Is the MG U9 safe?

Australia, brace yourselves! The U9 is landing with a stellar five-star ANCAP safety rating. Think of it as borrowing bragging rights from its globally-sold sibling, the Maxus eTerron 9 electric dual-cab – same rock-solid DNA, Aussie-approved protection.

| Category | MG U9 | | — | — | | Adult occupant protection | 91 per cent | | Child occupant protection | 89 per cent | | Vulnerable road user protection | 84 per cent | | Safety assist | 85 per cent |

Standard safety equipment includes:

• 7 airbags
• Intelligent Cruise Assist
• Lane-keep assist
• Lane departure warning
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Driver fatigue monitoring
• Forward collision warning
• Rear collision warning
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Tyre pressure monitoring
• Front and rear parking sensors
• Reversing camera

Explore X adds:

• 360-degree camera

Explore Pro adds:

• HD 360-degree camera

To see how the MG U9 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

How much does the MG U9 cost to run?

MG’s new U9 comes with a catch: a truncated warranty. Instead of the brand’s usual coverage, owners get just five years. The sting is lessened somewhat by unlimited kilometers for private drivers, but businesses face a 160,000km cap.

Opt for MG servicing and enjoy an extended warranty mirroring the LDV: a robust seven years or 200,000km. Specific service intervals and cost details are coming soon, so stay tuned for updates closer to the launch date.

To see how the MG U9 lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

childcareman.xyz’s Take on the MG U9

Verdict still out on the U9 after a quick spin, but early signs point to a contender. Could this be the ute that shakes up the Aussie market?

Forget budget utes; this one stretches the definition, offering limousine levels of space and comfort. Under the hood, a turbo-diesel roars, ready to tackle trails with its four-wheel-drive grip. And for those who value a smooth ride over sheer hauling power, the multi-link rear suspension is a game-changer, turning bumpy tracks into velvet ribbons.

Forget bare-bones pickups. For barely more than a spartan Ranger or HiLux, the Explore Pro isn’t just feature-packed; it’s a tech-laden sanctuary of luxury and practicality. We missed the base Explore, but if the Pro is anything to go by, value just got a serious upgrade.

But storm clouds gather on the horizon. Our prototype tests revealed a disturbing fragility, hinting that the U9 might not weather the long haul.

MG’s Smart Hatch? A stroke of genius… locked behind a $5500 "Explore Pro" paywall. Color us unimpressed.

The U9 remains an enigma on asphalt. Until we see it tame public roads, approaching this intriguing, but untested, ute with cautious optimism is the only sensible route.

childcareman.xyz can save you thousands on a new MG U9. Clickhereto get a great deal

Click the images for the full gallery

Explore the MG U9 showroom

Thanks for reading 2026 MG U9 review: Prototype drive