MG Motor Australia has released full pricing and specifications for the U9, the first ute to be sold by the Chinese manufacturer on local soil.

Despite early suggestions that the U9 would fall within the $55,000-65,000 range, MG has now confirmed that the Explore will start from $52,990 drive-away, while the top-spec Explore Pro is priced at $60,990 drive-away.

The U9 shares a platform with the LDV Terron 9, which is currently priced at $52,674 drive-away for the base Origin and $57,937 drive-away for the top-spec Evolve.

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However, the MG trades the Terron 9’s live rear axle and leaf springs for a more car-like multi-link coil-sprung independent rear suspension system.

MG still claims the U9 offers an identical braked towing capacity of 3500kg, matching class leaders including the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.

While U9 pre-orders are open, it’s unclear when deliveries will officially commence. MG has announced a $1000 accessory bonus for customers placing early orders.

Pricing

Drivetrains and Efficiency

The MG U9 shares a 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, eight-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive system with the LDV Terron 9, although peak power is down by 3kW in this application.