MG Just Built One Of The Coolest-Looking Utes In Australia… Seriously

• MG U9 delivers 160kW and 500Nm from a 2.0L twin-turbo diesel engine with 3500kg towing and full-time four-wheel drive.
• Developed with Australian brands like HSP and ARB for electric roller covers, bed sliders and bullbars.
• Priced below rivals like Ranger and HiLux, but packed with factory-backed off-road gear from launch.

If you told someone five years ago that MG would end up making one of the best-looking utes on the Aussie market, you’d have copped a laugh, a sideways glance, or both. Yet here we are, staring down the launch of the MG U9, a ute from a brand more famous for budget hatchbacks than backcountry tracks. And it looks… good. Really good.

This isn’t just a rebadged import. MG has gone all-in on the U9, building it to handle the rough stuff while still looking sharp enough to park outside a coastal Airbnb.

Local testing is already underway, and they’ve pulled in some serious Aussie muscle to get it right. Partnerships with HSP, ARB and AutoPacific mean you’ll be able to kit it out with factory-backed accessories from day one. Bullbars, ladder racks, electric roller covers, sliding bed trays. All the gear, developed in Australia; built for Australia.

Under the bonnet, it’s expected to run a 2.0-litre twin-turbo diesel engine with 160kW of power and 500Nm of torque. That’s paired with an eight-speed auto and full-time four-wheel drive. Towing capacity comes in at 3500kg, with payload around 1000kg.

Rear diff lock, underbody protection and off-road chops are all part of the package. It’ll also offer features like tailgate assist, central locking, and voice-activated bed covers straight from the HSP app. This ute isn’t just playing catch-up. It’s come to punch on.

The MG U9 is stepping into one of the most competitive segments in Australia. It’ll be up against:

• Ford Ranger: The benchmark for both tradies and weekend warriors. But MG will come in cheaper, and with some extra tech flair.
• Toyota HiLux: Still a national favourite, but ageing fast and looking a bit flat next to newer designs.
• Isuzu D-MAX and Mazda BT-50: Safe picks, but conservative. The MG will appeal to buyers who want something a little different.
• GWM Cannon Alpha: The closest direct rival. Both are well-specced, well-priced, and looking to break the Japanese stronghold.

What gives MG an edge is the instant access to locally built gear. You won’t have to wait months for a setup. The U9 lands with the lot, ready to roll. Whether you’re chasing something to load up for the job site or just want a tough-looking daily that doesn’t feel like every other dual-cab out there, this one’s worth a look.

This isn’t a gimmick ute from a budget brand. The MG U9 looks sharp, drives hard, and comes with a kit list that would make even a seasoned Ranger owner raise an eyebrow. The fact it’s priced to undercut the big players only makes it more appealing.

MG has gone from urban runabouts to outback-ready in a single leap. And if the final product lives up to the hype, this might be the surprise ute of the year.