The MG U9 EV arrives in Australia with impressive specs, including a 3500kg towing capacity and a strong focus on utility.
The MG U9 EV has officially been unveiled for the Australian market, marking its entry as one of the few electric utes available. This electric model boasts a remarkable 3500kg braked towing capacity, equipped with air suspension, and a WLTP-rated range of 430km, positioning it as a strong competitor in the market.
MG Motor Australia has revealed that our country will be the first to welcome the U9 EV, although pricing details remain undisclosed despite its earlier local debut in April. When quizzed about customer delivery timelines, the company has yet to release that information. However, the U9 EV is likely to hit the roads before the LDV eTerron 9, which is still in the pipeline.
According to an LDV Australia spokesperson, “We continue to work with the factory on the LDV eTerron 9.” This model was initially confirmed for an early 2025 launch, following Australian Design Rule certification and local testing, but it's yet to be showcased in showrooms.
The U9 EV, featuring a dual-motor all-wheel drive system, includes a substantial 102.2kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. It boasts charging capabilities of up to 115kW on DC power and 11kW on AC, allowing it to run 430km on a single charge.
MG claims that the battery can recharge from 20 to 80 percent within 42 minutes. It also incorporates vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, enabling users to power small appliances with a 6.6kW external port or 2.2kW from its three internal outlets.
The dual motors deliver a combined power output of 325kW and 700Nm, translating to impressive acceleration with a 0-100km/h time of just 5.8 seconds.
MG positions the U9 EV as a "lifestyle ute," a label often attributed to models that emphasize comfort over ruggedness. Notably, its braked towing capacity equalizes that of leading diesel models like the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux.
Beyond towing, the U9 EV can handle 750kg unbraked and has a total payload capacity of 685kg. Its cargo area is spacious enough to accommodate a standard pallet, while a 236-litre under-bonnet storage area adds to its functionality.
Unlike the traditional diesel U9, the electric version is equipped with four-wheel electronic air suspension, enhancing its ride comfort and utility. While the specifications of the U9 mirror those of the LDV/Maxus eTerron 9 available globally, MG has opted not to offer the single-motor rear-wheel drive variant in Australia.
In terms of features, the U9 EV comes with:
- Hands-free power tailgate
- Surround-view camera
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 15W wireless charger
- Leather-trimmed front seating
- Heated, ventilated, and massaging driver’s seat
- Heated front passenger seat
- Heated steering wheel
- 8-speaker JBL sound system
While MG hasn't revealed pricing yet, the diesel U9 starts at $59,990 drive-away. As for safety, MG boasts a five-star rating from ANCAP, though this rating is still pending publication. However, its sister organization Euro NCAP awarded the U9 five stars in their 2024 ratings.
Stylistically, the U9 EV distinguishes itself from its diesel counterpart with a unique front bumper design devoid of a grille and a light bar that runs across the tailgate. It has a length of 5500mm, width of 1997mm, and a height of 1860mm, with a wheelbase measuring 3300mm.
SAIC Motor’s description of the LDV and MG utes highlights their “semi-monocoque” design, contrasting with the Toyota HiLux BEV's body-on-frame construction and the KGM Musso EV's unibody design.
When compared to rivals, the MG U9 EV shines in terms of range (430km versus the HiLux's 245km), braked towing capacity (3500kg compared to 2000kg), and power output (325kW with 700Nm opposite the HiLux's 144kW with 468Nm). The Toyota does hold an advantage with a slightly higher DC charge rate, 150kW against the U9's 115kW.
Currently, the market lacks electric utes, aside from the somewhat unpopular LDV eT60, which has been removed from the manufacturer's website.
“The MG U9 EV brings together the capability and utility people expect from a ute with the comfort and benefits of an electric powertrain,” stated MG Motor Australia marketing director Dimitri Andreatidis. “It’s designed for everyday use — whether for work, school runs, or weekend adventures. Launching the U9 EV in Australia first highlights our commitment to this market and its importance to our business.”
MORE: Explore the MG U9 showroom MORE: Explore the LDV Terron 9 showroom
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