IT FEELS LIKE ONE OF THE most drawn-out launches ever, but the large MG ute, the MGU9, has finally launched in Australia with a price starting from $52,990, driveaway.
One of the most intriguing features is so-called Smart Hatch which, according to MG, delivers the robust strength of a ute, the refinement of a modern SUV, and innovation that sets MG Motor apart.
A multi-link rear suspension system, 3.5-tonne towing capacity, a spacious and modern interior with MultiFold seats and MG Smart Hatch cabin-to-tub access are just some features enabling the MGU9 to delight owners seeking the convenience of a ute, without compromising on the comfort of an SUV.
MG Motor Australia and New Zealand CEO, Peter Ciao said, “Many Aussies and Kiwis have been a part of MG Motor’s journey from zero to a top ten brand. The MG success story so far has been based on smaller cars and SUVs that Aussies fell in love with. But from today the MGU9 is our ‘big’ model step up. This great ute joins our growing family of big models, like the award-winning QS 7-seater. It marks the start of a big new era for MG in Australia and New Zealand, delivering comfort and rugged capability for local drivers”.
Kevin Gannon, MG Motor Business Director said, “The ute is more than just a vehicle – it’s a cultural icon. For generations, it has stood for independence, practicality, and a certain rite of passage. With the MGU9, we’re giving a new generation and current drivers the opportunity to build on the iconic culture of the ute. We wanted a dual-cab ute product that is designed and engineered for all genres of customers, built to exceed their cultural, lifestyle and utility needs. Whether you’re navigating corrugations, climbing rocky inclines, or cruising the freeway, you can be rest assured the MGU9 was purpose-built to tackle the task.”
MGU9 Key Highlights
Safety First for Down-Under
MGU9 has been awarded with an ANCAP five-star safety rating, ensuring excellent protection for both drivers, passengers and other road users. With Bosch ESP 9.3 included, MGU9 integrates vehicle dynamic control, traction control and automatic emergency braking to improve control, stability and safety. Featuring high-strength body materials, the MGU9 is built to withstand challenging urban and rural driving conditions.
Innovative Electric Opening Tailgate for Accessibility and Comfort
Unique to the MGU9 is the innovative electric opening tailgate. With the touch of a button, the rear tailgate lowers, exposing the drop-down step that allows safe, practical access to the rear tub, designed to provide additional versatility. Engineered with comfort, safety and convenience in mind, the tailgate allows loading and unloading with ease, catering to professional and recreational demands alike.
Beyond its functional advantages, the tailgate can be utilised as a convenient seating option when in the lowered position, complete with built-in cup holders, making it the perfect companion for the job site, scenic stops, camping adventures, or family outings.
Comfort without Compromise
Drivers can enjoy the very best that MG has to offer, with features such as a built-in driver’s seat ventilation and massage function to reduce fatigue. MGU9’s front and rear heated seats also use a five-layer and four-layer comfort material respectively, cradling the driver and passengers with excellent support, providing superior long-distance comfort.
The MGU9 combines rugged practicality with SUV-like refinement and superior quality to create an interior that is as comfortable as it is practical. The spacious cabin offers premium finishes, and immersive dual infotainment screens consisting of a 12.3-inch digital cluster and 12.3-inch central control screen, and thoughtful ergonomics.
Rugged Capability and Refined Design
Constructed on a robust chassis with an advanced anti-corrosion treatment process, the MGU9 has been purpose-built to endure Australia’s demanding conditions, delivering the strength, capability and versatility expected by ute drivers. With a 3.5 tonne towing capacity, the MGU9 is engineered to combine durability with refined on-road ride comfort and performance, allowing drivers to transition seamlessly between work week needs and weekend leisure pursuits.
Dependable Performance and Utility in Every Environment
Under the bonnet, the MGU9 is powered by a robust 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine that provides the strength and efficiency required for demanding conditions. Equipped with a responsive ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and an advanced BorgWarner 4WD system, with electronically-controlled locking differentials on both axles, seamlessly switching between driving modes for stability on highways, rural and off-road capability. The MGU9 inspires confidence and control.
Rear Multilink Independent Suspension for Enhanced Ride Comfort
MGU9 features front double-wishbone and rear multi-link independent suspension, more commonly found in premium performance vehicles, enhancing handling and ride comfort. This suspension pairing offers greater anti-roll capability and more precise wheel control, improving handling on challenging roads and tracks. Benchmarked across local cityscapes, highways, rural roads and off-road trails, this unique suspension package delivers superior ride comfort and capability.
Spacious and Comfortable Cabin
MGU9 offers the ultimate in cabin comfort, delivering a carefully designed space that enhances every journey. From its refined seating and up to 32 smart storage spaces and solutions, to the latest in infotainment and connectivity, the MGU9 ensures that both driver and passengers travel in style. A range of premium features and materials uplift the driving experience, providing convenience, safety, and luxury at every turn, all without compromising on the rugged performance and capability. Whether tackling the job site, family adventures, or off-road tracks, the MGU9 makes every drive more rewarding.
Interior Personalisation with Versatile MultiFold Seating
Across the entire range, the MGU9’s rear seating has been designed to deliver both practicality and comfort. The rear seats can be folded completely flat through MG’s MultiFold seats and Smart Hatch folding mid-gate proprietary design, enabling a seamless cabin-to-tub pass-through and transforming the interior into a versatile loading area for longer equipment and materials. When the rear seats are lowered, the front seats can also be folded backwards, creating an extended, flat surface that provides a comfortable resting position. This innovative folding system allows customers to customise the interior cabin layout to suit their bespoke needs and imagination, enhancing overall utility and versatility, making it perfectly suited for both work and pleasure.
Enhanced Capacity with MG’s Smart Hatch Electronically Foldable Mid-gate
In the MGU9 Explore Pro variant, the rear cabin window has been engineered to be fully retractable, providing customers with unrestricted access between the front cabin and the rear tub when the vehicle’s rear seats are in the lowered position. The Smart Hatch functionality allows long materials or equipment seamlessly.
This innovative design not only enhances the ute’s practicality by increasing its capacity but also reflects MG’s commitment to customer-centric personalisation. By enabling seamless cabin-to-tub access, the MGU9’s Smart Hatch feature is an ideal solution for long or bulky materials and is available as an optional extra.
Driver-focused Design
The driver’s side instruments and dashboard have been designed to be more intuitive and easier to navigate for less distraction. The infotainment panel adopts a horizontal design theme, complemented by two vertical air outlets on the sides, presenting a powerful and unique look.
The centre console is robust and thoughtfully designed, with a sliding storage compartment and hidden cup holders, making it neat and practical for daily use. Unique to the MGU9 is also an aircraft-inspired gear selector elevating the cabin’s interior design and brings a cockpit-like driving experience, full of power, speed, and futuristic appeal.
MGU9 Pricing
- MGU9 Explore – $52,990 AUD Drive Away
- MGU9 Explore X – $55,990 AUD Drive Away
- MGU9 Explore Pro – $60,990 AUD Drive Away
The MGU9 is backed by MG’s over 100-strong dealership network and a seven-year warranty when serviced within the MG network.