Earlier this month, MG confirmed its first ute for Australia with indicative pricing between $55,000 and $65,000, followed shortly after by a five-star ANCAP safety rating. Now, MG has released full local pricing and specifications, revealing a sharper entry price than initially expected.
The MG U9 range will open from $52,990 drive-away for the Explore, undercutting the earlier estimate and positioning it below key rivals such as the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger.
2026 MG U9 pricing in Australia
Australian pricing for the 2026 MG U9 range is as follows:
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| MG U9 Variant | Price (Drive away) |
| MG U9 Explore | $52,990 |
| MG U9 Explore X | $55,990 |
| MG U9 Explore Pro | $60,990 |
MG U9 rivals
The MG U9 enters one of the most competitive vehicle segments in Australia, going up against established names like the Ford Ranger XL, Toyota HiLux SR, and Isuzu D-Max LS-M.
It also competes directly with Chinese-built rivals such as the LDV Terron 9, with which it shares some engineering, as well as the GWM Cannon Alpha and Foton Tunland.
Technical specifications
Key specifications about the powertrain and practicality for the MG U9 dual cab are detailed below:
| Specification | MG U9 |
| Engine | 2.5L turbo-diesel 4-cyl |
| Performance | 160kW/ 520Nm |
| Transmission | ZF 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | BorgWarner 4WD |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank | 80 L |
| Braked Towing Capacity | 3500 kg |
| Rear Differential Lock | Standard |
| Front Differential Lock | Optional with Explore Pro |
| Low-Range Transfer Case | Standard |
| Ground Clearance | 220 mm (180 mm loaded) |
| Wading Depth | 550 mm |
Interior and Comfort Features
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The MG U9 offers different features depending on the variant.
MG U9 Explore comes standard with the following:
- MultiFold rear seats for flat load-through
- Driver seat with 6-way power adjustment
- Front and rear seats with standard comfort layers
- Sliding centre console with hidden cup holders
- Up to 32 storage compartments
MG U9 Explore X adds the following
- Heated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Six-way power-adjustable front passenger seat
MG U9 Explore Pro adds the following:
- Driver seat with massage and ventilation
- Cooled front seats
- Heated rear outboard seats
- Leather upholstery
- Suede headliner
- Sunroof
- 64-colour interior ambient lighting
- Smart Hatch electronically retractable rear window
Infotainment and Connectivity
As a dual-cab ute promising SUV-like cabin experiences, the MG U9 gets well-equipped for the price.
All MG U9 variants get this tech as standard:
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch central infotainment touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Digital radio
MG U9 Explore X and Explore Pro:
- Satellite navigation
- Connected services
- Wireless smartphone charging
MG U9 Explore Pro only:
- Eight-speaker JBL sound system
Exterior and convenience
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MG U9 Explore:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Silver roof rails
- Side steps
- Automatic LED headlights
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Lift-assist tailgate
MG U9 Explore X:
- 19-inch alloy wheels
- Folding side mirrors
- Cargo bed slide rails with hooks
MG U9 Explore Pro:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Black roof rails
- Black window trim
- Electric two-step tailgate
- Rear interior LED lighting
- Trailer reversing assist (Pro only)
Safety and Driver Assistance
All MG U9 variants have received a five-star ANCAP safety rating and come with:
- Autonomous emergency braking (forward & rear)
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane keep assist
- Lane departure warning
- Lane change assist
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Driver monitoring system with fatigue reminder
- Tyre pressure monitoring
- Hill-hold assist and hill descent control
- Reversing camera
- Front and rear parking sensors
MG U9 Explore X adds:
- Surround-view monitor
- Rear tub lights
MG U9 Explore Pro adds:
- High-definition 360° cameras
- Digital rear-view mirror
Final word
The MG U9 marks a significant step for the brand, moving beyond its SUV and hatchback base into Australia’s fiercely competitive ute market. While payload is slightly lower than some rivals due to its SUV-style suspension, the bang-for-buck pricing and premium-focused features may appeal to buyers seeking a vehicle that balances workhorse capability with everyday comfort.
Pre-orders are now open via MG dealerships and online, with deliveries expected in the coming months. The MG U9 comes with the brand’s standard 7-year warranty.
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