MG Has Officially Launched a New Truck to Compete with the Ranger and Hilux | Carscoops

MG Has Officially Launched a New Truck to Compete with the Ranger and Hilux | Carscoops

      Australia's fiercely competitive midsize pickup segment is set to welcome a new player: the Chinese MGU9.

      MG has introduced its inaugural Australian pickup, which is based on the Maxus Terron 9. It features a multi-link rear axle and a power tailgate equipped with a step.

      Powering the pickup is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 215 hp.

      The brand-new MGU9 represents MG's significant entry into Australia's competitive midsize pickup market. While MG is not new to producing trucks globally, this marks the first time an MG-branded pickup will be available in local showrooms. Built on the chassis of the Chinese Maxus/LDV Terron 9, the MGU9 retains much of its sibling’s components but includes unique features to distinguish it.

      Visually, the MGU9 resembles the Terron 9 for the most part, though there are several notable differences. The larger grille has been redesigned with more chrome and prominently displays the MG badge.

      A revamped bumper adds definition to the front, while the rear features a powered tailgate that includes a foldable step for easier access. Besides providing a step, this powered tailgate also serves as a bench with cupholders for enjoying drinks during breaks.

      Another interesting feature is the MG Smart Hatch system, which increases cargo space using a foldable mid-gate and a drop-down rear window, though it is only available on the top-tier Explore Pro trim.

      Inside, the standout feature is an aircraft-inspired gear selector unique to MG. The cabin design is similar to the LDV Terron 9, complete with dual 12.3-inch displays in the digital cockpit. The Explore Pro further enhances comfort with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, heated outboard rear seats, an eight-speaker JBL audio system, a panoramic glass roof, and leather upholstery featuring a suede headliner.

      Despite sharing a ladder-frame platform with its Chinese counterpart, MG Australia emphasizes that the MGU9 was specifically designed and tested for local conditions. Key to this assertion is the adoption of a multi-link independent rear suspension, moving away from the typical leaf springs found in this segment. MG claims that this configuration improves ride comfort and handling while maintaining load-carrying capability.

      Under the hood, it features a SAIC-produced 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, delivering 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS) and 520 Nm (383.5 lb-ft) of torque, which is 4 hp (3 kW) less than the diesel LDV, likely due to different tuning.

      The engine is matched with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and a BorgWarner four-wheel-drive system that includes a low-range transfer case. Buyers can also opt for electronically controlled locking differentials on both axles. MG claims a towing capacity of 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs) and a payload ranging from 770 to 870 kg (1,698-1,918 lbs), figures that keep it competitive with other midsize pickups.

      The MGU9 has dimensions of 5,500 mm (216.5 inches) in length, 2,265 mm (89.2 inches) in width, and 1,874 mm (73.8 inches) in height, with a wheelbase measuring 3,300 mm (129.9 inches). This length makes it 130 mm (5.1 inches) longer than the Ford Ranger, with an additional 30 mm (1.2 inches) between the axles.

      The MGU9 is currently available for pre-order in Australia, with deliveries expected to start in late 2025. The starting price is AU$ 52,990 (US$ 34,900) for the base Explore model, while the top-tier Explore Pro trim is priced at AU$ 60,990 (US$ 40,200). This pricing is only marginally higher than the LDV Terron 9, which lacks the multi-link rear suspension and the innovative tailgate features.

      The new model enters a highly competitive market led by the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux, while also competing against the Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50, VW Amarok, Kia Tasman, Mitsubishi L200, Nissan Navara, BYD Shark 6, and GWM Cannon Alpha.

      Interestingly, the MGU9 will soon have another relative in a different part of the world. The forthcoming VW Amarok Hybrid pickup will share its underlying architecture and components with the Maxus/LDV Terron 9, though it will feature an electrified powertrain and will be manufactured at the General Pacheco factory in Argentina for South American markets.

MG Has Officially Launched a New Truck to Compete with the Ranger and Hilux | Carscoops

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MG Has Officially Launched a New Truck to Compete with the Ranger and Hilux | Carscoops

Australia’s fiercely competitive midsize pickup market is seeing the arrival of another contender, the Chinese MGU9.