In late 2025, the MG brand entered the ute market with its U9 ‘midsize-plus’ offering.
It is available in three models, each of which 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.
This month, we got our fourth run in a U9. This time it was specifically to experience one of its cleverest options, the Smart Hatch available on the top-of-the-range Explore Pro.
Smart Hatch is a clever 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. That hatch creates a 2.4-metre long load space for sheets of Gib or ply or that 'essential' pole saw.
Leisure-wise? Got a surfboard to tote, or surfcaster rods, or a mountainbike? 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.
We're fans of MG's offering, it packs a huge amount of tech and luxury spec into its midsize-plus body.
Massage seats. Heated front and second row seats. Cooling fans in the front seats. Heated steering wheel.
All things that were once only found on premium cars from Europe. Features that trickled down to SUVs and are now finding their way into the ute market.
The U9 model range enables buyers to choose the standard tech and spec they require, with pricing that starts at $60,990 for the Explore version, steps up to $63,990 for the Explore X and then $68,990 for the Explore X Pro.
The Explore Pro 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. It also has an offroad 'crawl-along' cruise control for use in tricky going.
Though the U9 is definitely a midsize-plus (bigger than Ranger and the like in every dimension) it's easy to place accurately on the slippery tracks.
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.
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.
Inside, the ute is SUV-slick. Seating is “vegan” leather and there are up to 32 smart storage spaces and solutions.
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.
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