MG Launches U9 Pickup, Strong Challenger Toyota Hilux And Ford Ranger

MGUP9 in Australia. (Photo: MG Australia)

JAKARTA - The MG marks a new chapter in the pickup segment by launching MGU9 as a strong challenger for Toyota Hilux to the Ford Ranger in Australia.

Quoting from the Carscoops page, Wednesday, September 24, the pickup model from MG was built on a Maxus brand chassis called the Terron 9 made in China, but a little bit embedded in the details of the difference.

Visually, MGU9 most have a body resemblance to Terron 9, but there are some significant changes. For example, a large goal has been reshaped, coated with extra chromo, and of course, there is an MG logo on the front and center.

The bumper that is redesigned adds to the firmness at the front, while the appeal at the back is an electric trunk door with a built-in folding footing to facilitate access. Meanwhile, this electrical baggage door not only hides a folding foothold to facilitate access, but also serves as a bench, complete with other compartments.

Another interesting feature is the MG Smart Hatch system that expands its cargo area through a foldable middoor and downgraded rear window. However, this system is only offered on the Explore Pro seed trim, listed in the list of variant options.

In the interior, the main highlight is the aircraft-inspired persneling lever, typical of MG. Other cabin parts resemble Terron 9 including

Standard digital cockpit with two 12.3 inches of screen. The Explore Pro is also equipped with a front seat with a maned, ventilated, and massage, a maned back seat, eight JBL audio system speakers, a panoramic glass roof, and a leather seat coating with a suede coating.

Despite using the same mid-frame platform as China's twin brothers, MG Australia stressed that MGU9 was developed and specifically tested for local conditions. The essence of the claim is the use of a multi-link independent back suspension, a difference from the leaf spring common in its class. MG claims this arrangement provides the truck with the advantage in terms of driving and control comfort without sacrificing the ability to withstand loads.

Behind his hood is a turbodyseal four-cylinder 2.5 liter cylinder made by SAIC which produces 215 hp and 520 Nm torque. This figure is 4 hp (3 kW) lower than the diesel-powered LDV, possibly due to different tunings.

This machine is paired exclusively with automatic transmission of eight ZF accelerations and a BorgWarner four-wheel drive system equipped with low-distance case transfers.

MGU9 is available for Australian preorders with deliveries expected to begin by the end of 2025.