The MG U9 dual-cab ute is launching in Australia today with pricing already trimmed before anyone places an order. There are three variants:
- MG U9 Explore – A$52,990 AUD Drive Away
- MG U9 Explore X – A$55,990 Drive Away
- MG U9 Explore Pro – A$60,990 Drive Away
The Pro comes with a clever two-step fold out tailgate and awesome fold down rear hatch, which is an optional extra. That’s $5,500 extra but man is it worth it. They are clever additions that make an already smart ute appear more like a ute/SUV combo.
TECHNOLOGY
It all starts with the cockpit. And cockpit is apt because the shifter is inspired by a passenger jet throttle controller. Look up from the shifter and you’ll see dual infotainment screens consisting of a 12.3” digital cluster and 12.3” central control touch screen. The screens are bright with a high refresh rate. Music lovers will be pleased to see JBL speakers built into the system. You get wireless CarPlay and Android Auto and satellite navigation in the Explore X and Pro.
The 360 HD camera in the Pro is particularly good, made better by the interface execution. When towing you get a reassuring top down view of the towing assembly. Also, when driving at low speed you can access a handy underneath view during off-roading.
Sensors under the mirrors can measure the depth of water the vehicle is wading through. This means you can keep eyes front and concentrate on driving. From interior lighting to crash detection systems, the MG U9 isn’t short of technology that’s either vital or just cool to have a ute. The U9 has also been awarded with an ANCAP five-star safety rating
Your tech will vary depending on the model. The best is obviously the Explore Pro.
| Feature | EXPLORE | EXPLORE X | EXPLORE PRO |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort & Convenience | |||
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Gear Paddle Shift | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Remote Central Locking | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Keyless Entry | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Push Button Start | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Automatic Door Lock | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 4 Window One Touch Up/Down (With Anti Pinch) | ✓ | — | — |
| 4 Windows One Touch Up/Down (With Anti Pinch & Intelligent Windows) | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wading Sensor | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Trailer Reversing Assist | — | — | ✓ |
| 12V Power Outlet ×1 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror | — | ✓ | — |
| Rearview Streaming Mirror | — | — | ✓ |
| Acoustic Front Windshield | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multifunctional Steering Wheel | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cup Holders | ×2 | ×2 | ×4 |
| In-Car Entertainment | |||
| 6 Speakers | ✓ | ✓ | — |
| JBL 8 Speakers | — | — | ✓ |
| 12.3" Infotainment Screen | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| DAB+ Audio | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| FM/AM Radio | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth® | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Amazon Music | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| iSmart (12 Months Complimentary Access)# | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Over-the-Air Updates (OTA) | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Vehicle App Connectivity | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Off-road Vehicle Information | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Voice Control | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Satellite Navigation | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® & Android Auto™ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Wireless Mobile Charging (15W) | — | ✓ | ✓ |
| USB Ports ×4 (2× Type-A, 2× Type-C) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
# iSmart: 12 months complimentary access.
UNDER THE BONNET AND BODY
The MG U9 is powered by a 2.5-litre turbo diesel connected to a responsive ZF 8- speed automatic transmission and BorgWarner 4WD system, with electronic-controlled locking differentials on both axles.
MG U9 features front double-wishbone and rear multi-link independent suspension, which makes for a smoother ride and better handling. Despite this configuration the U9 still has a 3.5 tonne towing capacity.
MORE ON THE TAILGATE(S)
The U9 has an innovative electric opening tailgate. A button activates the lowering of the tailgate, exposing the drop-down step. This is a seriously brilliant addition to ute usage. It can even be used as a seat with the convenience of built-in cup holders. How good is that.
The rear seats can be folded completely flat through MG’s MultiFold seats and Smart Hatch (folding mid-gate) enabling a seamless cabin-to-tub pass-through. This has to be one of the best design features I’ve seen in a vehicle in years. When you have longer material to cart around, that little bit of extra room will be a lifesaver. 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.
REVIEW UNDERWAY
Image Matrix Tech is currently shooting a comprehensive review of the MG U9 Explore Pro. The specs and features are impressive but the proof is in the driving and we’ll be doing a lot of that over the next few weeks.
