2026 MG U9 ute: Payload, GVM and other key details revealed for Ford Ranger rival

The upcoming MG U9 ute has received Australian Design Rule certification that approves it for local roads, and documents seen by CarExpert have revealed some key figures for the first time.

The first ute to wear the MG nameplate in Australia is due for release here during the fourth quarter of 2025.

Two variants appear in the approval documents, both of which are dual-cab pickups powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine producing 160kW of power and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and what’s referred to as an automatic all-wheel drive system.

A torque figure isn’t listed, though Chinese data suggests it will be 520Nm.

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While both unnamed variants have a braked towing capacity of 3500kg, matching the class leaders, they differ in both tare mass and gross vehicle mass.

The former has a gross vehicle mass (GVM) of 3500kg and a tare mass of 2398kg, from which we can calculate a payload figure of 1102kg.

The other variant has a GVM of 3320kg and a tare mass of 2498kg, resulting in a payload figure of 822kg.

The MG U9 measures a sizeable 5500mm long, 1997mm wide and 1860mm tall on a 3300mm wheelbase. An optional luggage rack bumps height up to 1874mm.

For context, the Ford Ranger 4×4 dual-cab measures 5403mm long, 1918mm wide and 1886mm tall on a 3270mm wheelbase, making the new MG ute notably larger.

Dual-cab Rangers also offer a payload figure of between 929kg and 1018kg depending on the variant.

Ground clearance for the MG is 220mm, and the U9 will ride on either 18- or optional 20-inch wheels.

Other previously confirmed available features include a massaging driver’s seat, “flexible seat functionality to maximise storage and comfort”, a JBL sound system, and even walkthrough cab/tub capability.

While the U9 is a rebadged version of the upcoming LDV Terron 9, there won’t be an EV counterpart for the upcoming eTerron 9 electric ute from MG’s SAIC sister brand LDV, at least initially.

“We’re considering other drivetrains [for the U9] at the moment, but probably not the EV in the first instance. We’re considering something else [like] plug in hybrid,” said chief commercial officer Giles Belcher earlier this year.

Local testing of the U9 is underway, and MG has joined forces with the likes of HSP, ARB, and AutoPacific to prepare a suite of genuine accessories including bullbars, protection, tub lids and load racks to be made available as dealer options.

The U9 is a key part of MG’s plan to become a top-three auto brand in Australia by the end of this decade, and will be one of a raft of new models it releases in new segments for the brand.

This also includes the seven-seat QS large SUV and the more premium IM5 and IM6 electric vehicles (EVs), all of which will reach local showrooms in the coming months.

MORE: MG’s new ute to be available with tough Australian-made accessories