MG has made a significant move into the competitive mid-size pickup truck market in Australia with the launch of the U9. Based on the Chinese Maxus/LDV T60 (not Terron 9), the U9 inherits much of its design but incorporates distinct features. The redesigned large grille features chrome accents and a prominent MG logo. A refreshed front bumper adds to the truck's presence, while a powered tailgate with integrated steps enhances accessibility. The tailgate also functions as a bench seat with cup holders.

The U9 is based on the Chinese Maxus/LDV T60. Photo: MG

The large grille features chrome accents and a prominent MG logo.

A powered tailgate with integrated steps enhances accessibility.

The tailgate also functions as a bench seat with cup holders.

The U9 features a SAIC-built 2.5-liter, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, and a BorgWarner 4WD system.

The standard digital cockpit includes two 12.3-inch screens.

The two-spoke steering wheel has integrated controls.

The gear selector is aircraft-inspired.

Heated rear seats are available.

The MG Smart Hatch system expands cargo space with a folding midgate and sliding rear window.

The unique feature creates a continuous space from the cabin to the cargo bed.

The U9 boasts a SAIC-built 2.5-liter, four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, generating 215 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque. Power is delivered through an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission and a BorgWarner four-wheel drive system with a low-range transfer case. An electronically controlled locking differential on both axles is optional. The U9 has a towing capacity of 3,500 kg and a payload of 770-870 kg, making it competitive within the mid-size pickup segment.

Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, driver fatigue monitoring, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, rear collision warning, tire pressure monitoring, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and seven airbags.

Inside, an aircraft-inspired gear selector is a prominent feature. The standard digital cockpit includes two 12.3-inch screens. The Explore Pro adds heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, heated rear seats, an eight-speaker JBL sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery with a suede headliner. Another standout feature is the optional MG Smart Hatch system, available on the Explore Pro. This system expands cargo space with a folding midgate and a sliding rear window.

While sharing a ladder-frame chassis with the LDV T60, MG Australia emphasizes that the U9 was developed and tested specifically for local conditions. Key to this is the multi-link independent rear suspension, a departure from the more common leaf springs in this segment. MG claims this setup provides superior comfort and handling without compromising load-carrying capacity.

The U9 measures 5,500 mm long, 2,265 mm wide, and 1,874 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3,300 mm. This makes it 130 mm longer than the Ford Ranger and with a 30 mm longer wheelbase.

The U9 is now available for pre-order in Australia, with deliveries expected later this year. Pricing starts at 52,990 AUD (34,900 USD) for the Explore trim and rises to 60,990 AUD (40,200 USD) for the Explore Pro. This positions the U9 slightly above the LDV T60, which lacks the multi-link rear suspension and smart tailgate.

The U9 enters a highly competitive segment dominated by the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. It also faces competition from the Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, Volkswagen Amarok, Kia Tasman, Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara, BYD Shark 6, and GWM Cannon Alpha.

My Anh (CarExpert)