MG U9 Review Australia: The Best Value Dual-Cab Ute from China?

TL;DR – Quick Takeaway

✅ What’s Good: Incredible $60K driveaway pricing, independent rear suspension, innovative drop-down rear window/tray, premium interior features, excellent ride comfort, off-road capable with front/rear diff locks
❌ What’s Not: Slow acceleration (11.47s 0-100km/h), limited underbody protection, brake fade concerns, GCM/GVM payload limitations, 800kg payload restriction
💰 Price: $60,000 driveaway (Explore Pro) | $50,000+ driveaway (entry level)
⭐ Rating: 8.3/10
🎯 Best For: Buyers wanting premium dual-cab comfort without the Toyota/Ford price premium, lifestyle users prioritizing ride quality over heavy-duty work

Introduction: China’s Serious Challenge to Ford and Toyota

MG has just dropped a bombshell in the Australian dual-cab ute market with the MG U9, and at $60,000 driveaway for the top-spec model, Ford and Toyota should be genuinely worried. This is MG’s first-ever dual-cab ute in Australia, and it is closely related to the impressive LDV Terron 9 we recently tested.

However, the U9 isn’t just a badge-engineered clone. MG has completely redesigned the rear end with independent rear suspension instead of the traditional live axle setup, creating what might be the most comfortable dual-cab ute ride in Australia.

But does comfort come at the cost of capability? Can a Chinese ute really compete with established Australian favourites? After extensive testing including off-road adventures, here’s everything you need to know about the MG U9.

In This Review:

• Design and Exterior Walkaround
• Innovative Drop-Down Tray System
• Interior Quality and Technology
• Engine Performance and Real-World Testing
• Independent Rear Suspension Analysis
• Off-Road Capability Testing
• Towing Capacity and Payload Concerns
• Should You Buy Over Ranger or Hilux?

Design & Exterior: Bigger Than You Think

First Impressions

The MG U9 is massive. At over 5 meters long, it photographs deceptively small, but seeing it in person reveals this is a genuinely enormous vehicle. The front grille is huge, making a bold visual statement that announces the U9’s arrival.

Key Exterior Features:

Front End:

• Large MG logo centerpiece
• Shadow chrome accents
• Full LED headlights with three-beam design
• Substantial bumper with integrated tow hooks (behind plastic panel)

Side Profile:

• Black wheel arch cladding
• 20-inch graphite-finish alloy wheels
• Continental highway terrain tires (not all-terrain)
• Plastic side steps (may scratch easily off-road)
• Roof rails with privacy glass
• Glass sunroof (premium feature at this price)
• Integrated camera in wing mirrors

Rear Design:

• Full LED tail lights
• Massive rear overhang (potential concern for departure angle)
• Unique integrated tray design (single body piece)

The Design Trade-Off

Here’s where things get interesting. Unlike traditional dual-cab utes where the tray is a separate component you can remove and replace with aftermarket options (steel trays, canopies, etc.), the U9’s tray is integrated into the body.

What This Means:

• Limited customization options
• Cannot fit traditional aftermarket steel trays
• Maintains structural rigidity for the drop-down mechanism
• More car-like than traditional workhorse ute

This design choice signals MG’s positioning: the U9 is a lifestyle dual-cab focused on comfort and innovation rather than a traditional work truck.

The Innovative Drop-Down Tray System

How It Works

This is genuinely one of the coolest features we’ve seen on any ute. The MG U9 has a multi-stage drop-down rear section that expands cargo capacity in ways no other dual-cab can match.

Stage 1: Partial Drop-Down

• Drop just the lower section
• Creates a step to access the tray
• Supports up to 170kg (enough for most people to stand on)
• Useful loading platform

Stage 2: Complete Drop-Down

• Lower window slides down electronically
• Entire rear section drops down
• Creates massive extended load length
• Unlike anything else in the segment

Real-World Testing

We tested this extensively on rough roads to see if it creates structural flex issues. Surprisingly, the rigidity held up extremely well even on corrugated surfaces and our twist course. The engineering behind this feature is genuinely impressive.

Tray Dimensions:

• Load Length: 1,600mm
• Load Width: 1,200mm
• Load Depth: Over 500mm

Wind Buffeting Test

We were concerned about wind noise at highway speeds with the rear section down. Testing at 100km/h revealed zero buffeting – surprisingly refined for such an open configuration.

Verdict: This innovative system works brilliantly and adds genuine versatility without compromising structural integrity.

Interior: $60K Premium Quality

First Impressions: Genuine Value

Step inside the MG U9 and you’ll immediately understand why Chinese manufacturers are disrupting the market. For a $60,000 driveaway, you’re getting:

• Dual 12.3-inch displays (infotainment and driver display)
• Premium materials throughout
• Loads of technology as standard
• Spacious cabin with innovative storage

Ford and Toyota should be worried because MG has delivered flagship-level interior quality at mid-range pricing.

Technology and Infotainment

Dual Screen Setup:

• 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment
• 12.3-inch digital driver display
• Latest MG infotainment system (big improvement over previous generations)

Smartphone Integration:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• Wireless Android Auto
• Importantly: Doesn’t drop out under toll gantries (unlike many competitors)
• Full-screen integration for both systems

Audio System:

• 8-speaker JBL sound system
• Good sound quality but lacks subwoofer
• Would significantly benefit from bass enhancement
• AM/FM/DAB+ digital radio
• Amazon Music integration

Infotainment Frustrations

Despite the premium feel, there are some UX annoyances:

Issues:

1. Too many buried functions – Climate control, seat ventilation, and rear glass opening all require menu diving
2. Imprecise touch response while driving – Sometimes clicks register as drags
3. No physical buttons for common functions – Would benefit from dedicated controls
4. Home button required when using CarPlay/Android Auto to access vehicle functions

These are software issues MG could potentially fix with future updates.

Comfort and Features

Driver Seat:

• Electric adjustment (forward/back, backrest, lumbar, height)
• Heated and cooled seats
• Massage function (driver only)
• Heated steering wheel
• Excellent support and comfort

Passenger Seat:

• Electric adjustment
• Heated seat only (no ventilation – bizarre omission)

Climate Control:

• Dual-zone automatic climate
• Cooling vents for rear passengers
• Rear seat heating for outboard positions

Connectivity:

• USB-C and USB-A ports
• 120W 12-volt outlet
• Wireless phone charger (no cooling – phone gets hot)

Storage Solutions

The U9 offers genuinely impressive storage:

• Removable center console organizer
• Large center console
• Phone holder on passenger side
• Decent-sized glovebox
• Storage nook near driver’s knee
• Multiple cupholders

Second Row Space

Rear Passenger Comfort:

• Excellent knee room
• Adequate headroom (cutout for sunroof helps)
• Toe room slightly cramped under front seats
• Transforming rear seats (can fold for cargo)
• Center armrest with cupholders
• USB-A and USB-C charging
• Mat pockets for storage

Versatility: Even with the rear section up, you can fold rear seats to fit longer items side-on, making this a genuinely flexible cargo space.

Engine and Transmission: Adequate But Not Exciting

Powertrain Specifications

Engine:

• 2.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel
• Power: Not specified (adequate for segment)
• Torque: Just over 500Nm

Transmission:

• 8-speed automatic
• Quick and responsive shifts
• Well-tuned for daily driving

Real-World Performance

The 500Nm torque figure positions the U9 competitively against Ranger and Hilux, which is necessary given the vehicle’s 2.5-ton weight. However, performance testing revealed some surprises.

Performance Testing Results:

Analysis: The U9 feels strong off the line but loses momentum quickly after 80km/h. With 500Nm of torque, these acceleration figures should be significantly better. The engine needs more tuning to extract better performance, especially for overtaking on country roads.

Transmission Performance

Despite underwhelming engine performance, the 8-speed automatic is excellent:

• Lightning-fast kickdown response
• Smooth shifts in normal driving
• Smart gear selection in various drive modes
• No hesitation or hunting between gears

Verdict: The gearbox is a highlight; the engine needs more development.

Fuel Economy: Higher Than Expected

Official Claim: 7.5L/100km
Real-World Average: Almost 10L/100km

Testing Conditions:

• Mix of city and highway driving
• 2.5-ton vehicle weight
• Loaded with camera equipment

The 33% difference between claimed and real-world fuel economy is significant. Given the vehicle’s weight and size, achieving claimed figures seems unrealistic for typical Australian driving conditions.

The Star Feature: Independent Rear Suspension

What Makes This Special?

The MG U9’s biggest differentiator from the LDV Terron 9 (and most dual-cabs) is fully independent rear suspension instead of a live axle with leaf springs.

Suspension Setup:

• Front: Independent suspension (standard for dual-cabs)
• Rear: Fully independent with coil springs and dampers
• Anti-roll bars front and rear
• Complex multi-link rear arrangement

Why This Matters:

This is virtually unheard of in dual-cab utes. The engineering complexity and cost are significant, but the ride quality benefits are substantial.

Ride Quality: The Highlight

The independent rear suspension delivers exceptional ride comfort for a dual-cab ute:

Around Town:

• Smooth, refined, almost car-like ride
• Absorbs bumps exceptionally well
• Doesn’t feel like a traditional workhorse ute
• Bridges gap between lifestyle vehicle and dual-cab

Highway Driving:

• Comfortable cruising
• Minimal harshness over expansion joints
• Good isolation from road imperfections

The Trade-Off: Body Control

Testing at 130km/h on our sine wave course revealed the compromise:

High-Speed Undulations:

• Vehicle feels floaty over larger bumps
• Poor body control when unloaded
• Oscillations can feel unsettled
• Not confidence-inspiring on poor country roads at speed

Why This Matters: Australian regional roads often have terrible surface quality. At highway speeds (110-130km/h), the U9’s soft suspension can feel unsettled over undulating surfaces, creating a bouncy, slightly uncontrolled sensation.

Potential Solution: Adding more passengers or payload helps settle the suspension, reducing the float. This is a tuning issue MG could potentially address with updated damper calibration.

Off-Road Capability: Surprisingly Capable

Off-Road Specifications

Ground Clearance: 220mm (acceptable, not class-leading)
Wading Depth: 550mm (mid-pack)
Approach Angle: 29 degrees
Departure Angle: 25 degrees

4WD System Features:

• Four-wheel drive high and low range
• Front differential lock
• Rear differential lock
• Off-road expert mode with multiple terrain settings
• Crawl control for off-road
• Hill descent control
• Wade sensing function
• Transparent chassis camera (see-through view)

Off-Road Drive Modes

The U9 offers comprehensive terrain-specific modes:

• Rock
• Deep Snow
• Deep Mud
• Wade
• Rock Crawl

Additionally, the Eco drive mode operates in rear-wheel drive to save fuel during normal driving.

Real-World Off-Road Testing

Offset Mogul Test (Rear Wheel Drive):

• Traction control struggled initially
• Required rear diff lock engagement
• Excellent feature: Can engage rear diff lock in 2WD high range
• Eventually overcame obstacle but traction control needs refinement

Offset Mogul Test (4WD Auto):

• Much better performance
• Traction control engaged more effectively
• Cleared obstacle with moderate throttle

Hill Climb Test: Testing on a steep graded hill in low range:

• Climbed effortlessly despite perfectly graded surface
• This was on highway terrain tires, not all-terrain
• Diffs remained unlocked
• Impressive capability for the tire type

Crawl Control Test: Using the off-road crawl control system up the hill:

• Hands-free throttle control via cruise switches
• Managed traction well
• Some wheel slip but maintained momentum
• Successfully climbed without driver input

Hill Hold Test:

• Brought vehicle to stop mid-climb
• Released brake
• Hill hold activated perfectly
• Smooth take-off without rollback

Rock Course: Crossing sharp rocks and uneven terrain:

• Comfortable ride over obstacles
• Zero underbody touchdowns
• Suspension articulated well
• Impressive performance on highway tires

Off-Road Verdict

The MG U9 is surprisingly capable off-road despite:

• Highway terrain tires (not all-terrain)
• Independent rear suspension (theoretically less capable than live axle)
• Limited ground clearance

With proper all-terrain tires, this ute would be genuinely impressive off-road. The front and rear diff locks, low range, and multiple terrain modes provide legitimate capability for weekend adventures.

The Underbody Problem: Protection Concerns

Lack of Adequate Protection

Inspecting the U9 on a hoist revealed significant concerns for serious off-road use:

Front Underbody:

• Mostly plastic protection panels
• Tow hook behind plastic (shows impact damage from testing)
• Lower suspension arms showing paint wear from off-road contact
• Radiator area protected only by plastic
• Exposed fuel filter vulnerable to rock strikes

Mid-Section:

• Diesel particulate filter with heat shielding (good)
• Borg Warner transfer case (quality component)
• Exhaust routing adequate

Rear Underbody:

• Fuel tank has no protection (major concern)
• Fuel tank sits at approximately the lowest point
• Anti-roll bar at similar height
• Rear differential vulnerable

Recommendations

If you plan serious off-roading:

1. Install aftermarket skid plates (front, fuel tank, diff)
2. Replace plastic underbody panels with metal protection
3. Protect fuel filter with additional shielding
4. Consider rock sliders instead of plastic side steps

For casual off-road use: The existing protection is probably adequate, but be mindful of ground clearance and avoid aggressive terrain.

Towing and Payload: The Limiting Factor

Towing Capacity Specifications

Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500kg
Tow Ball Download: 350kg
Payload (Top Spec): Limited to approximately 800kg

The GCM/GVM Problem

This is where the U9’s focus on comfort creates real-world limitations:

Scenario 1: Maximum Towing

• Tow 3,500kg trailer
• Tow ball download: 350kg
• Remaining payload: Under 450kg (due to GCM limit)
• That’s driver, passengers, and gear

Scenario 2: Maximum Payload

• Load 800kg in tray
• Add 350kg tow ball download
• Cannot tow at maximum capacity
• Must reduce trailer weight significantly

The Reality: The U9 is not designed for heavy-duty commercial work or serious towing while fully loaded. The independent rear suspension and comfort focus means MG has prioritized ride quality over maximum payload/towing flexibility.

No Tow Bar for Testing

Despite requesting a U9 with tow bar for testing, our review vehicle had none fitted. We’re keen to see:

• How the chassis handles 3,500kg towing
• Rear sag with tow ball download
• Stability at highway speeds when towing
• Real-world towing behavior

Concern: The long rear overhang (cantilever design) puts significant stress on the chassis rails when towing heavy loads. We’d like to see MG’s tow bar attachment points and structural reinforcement.

Handling and Dynamics

On-Road Behavior

Sport Mode Testing: Testing the U9 in Sport mode on our handling circuit revealed:

Positives:

• Strong initial brake pedal bite
• Decent steering feel for a dual-cab
• Good traction from Continental highway tires
• Fairly planted through corners
• Anti-roll bars help reduce body roll

Negatives:

• Softly-sprung suspension moves around over mid-corner bumps
• Not as composed as some competitors
• Wind noise from window seals at 100km/h
• Feels very large and heavy

Brake Performance Concerns

During spirited driving, we noticed brake fade:

Symptoms:

• Pedal feels fine initially
• After repeated hard braking, pedal goes long
• Less pedal pressure required but longer travel
• No smoke from brakes (unusual for fade)
• Returns to normal after cooling

Analysis: This isn’t typical brake fade (which produces smoke and reduced stopping power). It feels more like a tuning or hydraulic issue. However, if you’re towing heavy loads, consider upgrading to larger brakes for better stopping power and heat management.

Driver Assistance and Safety Tech

Semi-Autonomous Features

The U9 includes the typical suite of driver assistance:

• Lane keeping assistance
• Distraction monitoring
• Forward collision warning
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane centering assist

Programmable Off Button: Thankfully, you can program the star button to disable all annoying features with one press, which is far better than menu-diving.

Semi-Autonomous Performance: Poor

Testing the lane-keeping and centering at 70km/h revealed significant problems:

• Constantly straddles lane markings
• Doesn’t center properly in lane
• Endlessly beeps warnings
• Unreliable performance
• Would disable in real-world driving

Verdict: The semi-autonomous systems need substantial improvement. Fortunately, they’re easy to disable.

Visibility

Driver’s Perspective:

• Enormous bonnet creates intimidating feeling
• Vehicle feels very long when parking
• Excellent reverse camera helps
• Comprehensive parking sensors
• See-through chassis camera useful off-road

The U9 genuinely feels big from the driver’s seat, which may be exactly what buyers in this segment want, but it takes adjustment if you’re coming from a smaller vehicle.

Practicality and Real-World Usability

Door Functionality

Electronic Door Strikes:

• Push-button door opening
• Prevents opening when traffic is approaching
• Emergency manual release buried low (safety concern in accidents)

Note: China will mandate proper door handles in future vehicles, addressing this safety issue.

Storage and Organization

The U9 excels at practical storage solutions throughout the cabin, making it genuinely livable for daily use.

Build Quality

First Impressions: Materials feel premium and assembly seems solid. However, true build quality will only be revealed over time and Australian conditions:

• How do materials hold up to UV exposure?
• Does anything rattle after 50,000km of corrugated roads?
• How does the drop-down mechanism age?

Value Proposition: Ford and Toyota Should Worry

Price Comparison

MG U9 Explore Pro (Top Spec): $60,000 driveaway
MG U9 Entry Level: ~$50,000 driveaway

What You Get for $60K:

• Dual 12.3-inch screens
• Premium interior materials
• JBL sound system
• Glass sunroof
• Heated/cooled/massaging driver seat
• Wireless smartphone mirroring
• Independent rear suspension
• Front and rear diff locks
• Innovative drop-down tray system
• Comprehensive off-road modes

Comparable Competitors:

• Ford Ranger Wildtrak: $75,000+ driveaway
• Toyota Hilux SR5: $70,000+ driveaway
• Mitsubishi Triton: $65,000+ driveaway

The Value Argument

At $15,000-20,000 less than equivalent Ford or Toyota models, the U9 offers:

• Similar or better interior technology
• More innovative features
• Comparable off-road capability
• Superior ride comfort

The Question: Will Australian buyers pay extra for brand heritage and perceived reliability, or will value win out?

The Reliability Unknown

MG’s Challenge: The U9 is a new product without long-term reliability data in Australian conditions. Established brands have decades of proven durability.

The Risk: Early adopters are taking a gamble that Chinese manufacturing quality matches the impressive specifications and features.

The Reward: Saving $15,000-20,000 while getting more features and technology than competitors offer.

Pros & Cons

✅ What We Loved

• Incredible value at $60K driveaway – $15K+ cheaper than equivalent Ranger/Hilux
• Independent rear suspension – Best ride comfort in dual-cab segment
• Innovative drop-down tray system – Genuinely useful and well-executed
• Premium interior quality – Dual screens, JBL audio, heated/cooled seats
• Off-road capable – Front/rear diff locks, low range, multiple terrain modes
• Well-tuned transmission – Quick, responsive 8-speed automatic
• Spacious interior – Excellent room front and rear
• Comprehensive technology – Wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, multiple cameras
• Innovative storage solutions – Removable organizers, multiple compartments
• Glass sunroof – Premium feature at this price point

❌ What Needs Work

• Slow acceleration – 11.47s 0-100km/h is disappointing
• Brake fade concerns – Pedal goes long during hard use
• Limited payload – 800kg restriction limits heavy-duty use
• Poor body control – Floaty at highway speeds over undulations
• Insufficient underbody protection – Plastic shields not adequate for serious off-road
• No subwoofer – JBL system lacks bass depth
• Buried controls – Too many functions hidden in menus
• Semi-autonomous systems poor – Lane-keeping unreliable
• Limited customization – Integrated tray limits aftermarket options
• GCM/GVM limitations – Can’t tow maximum while fully loaded
• Fuel economy discrepancy – 33% higher than claimed
• Emergency door release buried – Safety concern in accidents

Should You Buy the MG U9?

Buy If You:

✅ Want dual-cab comfort without Ford/Toyota pricing
✅ Prioritize ride quality over maximum payload
✅ Value innovation and technology features
✅ Do occasional off-road trips (not commercial use)
✅ Drive mostly unloaded or lightly loaded
✅ Can accept unknown long-term reliability
✅ Want the most comfortable dual-cab ride available
✅ Don’t need maximum towing while fully loaded

Skip If You:

❌ Need proven long-term reliability
❌ Regularly tow 3,500kg at maximum GVM
❌ Want maximum payload capacity (1,000kg+)
❌ Do serious off-road work requiring heavy protection
❌ Must have aftermarket tray compatibility
❌ Prefer traditional live-axle toughness
❌ Brand reputation is paramount
❌ Need consistent highway speeds over poor roads

Final Verdict: A Genuine Contender

MyPitShop Rating: 8.3/10

Breakdown:

• Value for Money: 10/10 – Unbeatable at $60K driveaway
• Interior Quality: 9/10 – Premium materials and features
• Ride Comfort: 9/10 – Best in dual-cab segment
• Off-Road Capability: 8/10 – Surprisingly capable with proper tires
• Engine Performance: 6/10 – Needs more punch
• Technology: 8/10 – Comprehensive but UX needs refinement
• Practicality: 7/10 – Payload/GCM limitations hurt
• Build Quality: 8/10 – TBC over time

The Bottom Line

The MG U9 represents a genuine challenge to Australian dual-cab dominance. At $60,000 driveaway for the top-spec model, it delivers premium features, innovative design, and exceptional ride comfort that undercuts competitors by $15,000-20,000.

The trade-off is clear: MG has optimized for comfort and lifestyle use rather than maximum commercial capability. The 800kg payload limit and GCM restrictions mean this isn’t the ute for tradies regularly hauling tons of materials or towing heavy trailers while fully loaded.

But for lifestyle buyers who want dual-cab versatility, exceptional ride quality, legitimate off-road capability for weekend adventures, and premium technology without the Toyota tax, the U9 is genuinely compelling.

The big question remains reliability over time. Chinese manufacturers must prove their vehicles can handle Australian conditions for 10+ years. Early adopters willing to take that risk get incredible value.

Our recommendation: If you’re buying primarily for comfort and lifestyle use (camping, beach trips, light towing), the U9 is excellent value. If you need maximum commercial capability and proven reliability, pay the premium for Ranger or Hilux.

Comparison: MG U9 vs Competitors

MG U9 vs Ford Ranger Wildtrak

Winner: U9 for value and comfort; Ranger for performance and payload

MG U9 vs Toyota Hilux SR5

Winner: U9 for features and pricing; Hilux for reliability and resale

MG U9 vs LDV Terron 9

Winner: U9 for comfort; Terron 9 for payload and customization

Reviewed by: MyPitShop Australia
Honest reviews for smarter automotive choices in the Australian market.

Note: Pricing and specifications accurate as of January 2025. Always confirm current pricing and features with MG dealers as specifications may change.

Considering the MG U9? What’s your biggest concern – reliability or payload? Let us know in the comments below!

Would you choose the MG U9 over a Ranger or Hilux? Share your thoughts on whether value trumps brand heritage in today’s dual-cab market.