The MG brand has revealed its U9 midsize-plus ute for New Zealand in three models.
Each builds on the same drivetrain and suspension: 160kW/520Nm 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine, ZF eight speed automatic transmission, BorgWarner 4WD system and fully independent suspension. All models have at least a locking rear diff and all have multiple mode transmissions.
The model range enables buyers to choose the standard tech and spec they require, with pricing that starts at $60,990 for the Explore version we drove, steps up to $63,990 for the Explore X and then $68,990 for the Explore X Pro.
We first drove the U9 at the Australasian launch north of Sydney, so yesterday was our first chance to try it in New Zealand conditions – and in Auckland rain.
Out east of Auckland, we travelled from Boom Rock along to the Munro farm, a 202-hectare working farm that was formerly the Pukerau 4WD training location.
Here, on long wet grass and up and down narrow clay-based tracks, the MG showed its capability in a way it could not do at the Australasian reveal, where drives were necessarily quite brief.
The ‘starter’ spec Explore we drove was unfussed by anything we tackled, the transmission coping easily with rough and slimy uphills and slippery grassy downhills. Its hill descent control includes the ability to maintain a particular speed (unless asked to do otherwise) and engages in a smooth and quiet manner.
Though the U9 is definitely a midsize-plus (bigger than Ranger and the like in every dimension) it was easy to place accurately on the slipper singletracks that climb into the farm’s hilly interior.
MG U9 has an independent multi-link rear suspension set-up. Traditional thinking would have it that such systems have a focus on road comfort (they do) and that IRS compromises tow ratings (in this case, it doesn’t). MG U9’s braked tow rating is 3,500kg.
Fans of old school leaf spring live axle 4WDs are always sceptical of full independent suspension setups, claiming they lack the ability to cross lumpy terrain. With the rear diff locked, the U9 cruised through the axle-crossup section built into one of the high paddocks on the farm. We idled through, the rear end providing excellent drive ass we dipped in and out of the hollows.
Given that few utes sold here do much hard-out offroading in their lifespan, it’s equally important that a new ute behave well on tarmac. The U9 was predictable and calm on the rain-slicked tarmac drive to and from the Munro farm.
Another fundamental difference worth noting is the U9’s SUV-style unibody construction. Unlike all of its peers, its rear bed isn’t a separate piece. So no flat-deck or ‘service body’ versions then. Different market position.
Inside, the ute is SUV-slick.
Seating is “vegan” leather and there are up to 32 smart storage spaces and solutions. MGU9’s front and rear heated seats feature five-layer and four-layer comfort material (respectively).
Infotainment is clustered in a one-piece curved dashboard with 12.3” digital cluster and 12.3” central control screen meaning key vehicle status displays are easy to read and access.
Premium features and materials uplift the driving experience, providing convenience, safety, and luxury at every turn without compromising the ute’s rugged performance and capability.
All models come with dual 12.3-inch displays in the long curvy dash screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, a very clear 360-degree camera, and MG’s full suite of safety tech (the U9 was just awarded a 5-star crash rating from ANCAP).
That 360-degree camera setup is as handy offroad as in the supermarket car park.
Some standout features bear special mention.
The top model has Smart Hatch, a fold-down rear bulkhead that enables very long wide loads to be carried, and its rear window is powered to slide down as well.
A trip to Bunnings for some timber was never this easy. Got a surfboard to tote? No problem, and no rack needed. Off to IKEA for some flat pack furniture? No trailer required.
The ute has a very handy fold-down step built into the soft-opening tailgate, similar to the version on GWM’s Cannon Alpha. MG calls its “innovate” tailgate design unique for moving the game on with one-button electronic operation designed to make work (and play) easier. It improves access to cargo, and provides a handy ‘sit ledge’ for morning smoko. There are even cup retainers moulded into the tailgate’s inner surface.
