2026 MG U9 Receives Controversial Five Star ANCAP Score Ahead of Australian Launch

The MG U9 ute has received a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, applying to all diesel variants introduced in Australia and New Zealand from September 2025.

The rating is based on testing of the Maxus eTerron 9 in 2024, with technical data provided to confirm applicability to the MG U9.

The Maxus eTerron 9 is currently on sale in Europe and there were plans for it to be offered in Australia as the LDV eTerron 9, though that has been placed on hold.

Unlike the MG U9, it is an electric vehicle with dual-motor all-wheel drive and a front storage compartment instead of an engine bay.

Despite these differences, ANCAP confirmed that test results from the eTerron 9 were applicable to the MG U9 diesel models.

The ute achieved 91% for Adult Occupant Protection, 89% for Child Occupant Protection, 84% for Vulnerable Road User Protection, and 85% for Safety Assist.

The full report from ANCAP is available here.

Standard airbags include dual frontal, side chest, side head, and a centre airbag, which protects against occupant-to-occupant interaction in side impacts.

In crash testing, the passenger compartment remained stable in frontal offset testing, with good protection to most body regions and adequate protection for the driver’s chest and lower legs.

Side impact testing showed good protection across all regions, with maximum points scored.

Child occupant testing confirmed good performance in both frontal and side impacts.

ISOFix and top tether anchorages are provided on rear outboard seats, and an indirect child presence detection system is standard. Installation of child restraints in the second-row centre seat is not recommended due to the absence of a top tether anchorage.

Pedestrian and cyclist protection was rated at 84%, with good results across most bonnet and windscreen areas but marginal to poor results around stiff structures.

The autonomous emergency braking system demonstrated good performance in detecting pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, including junction and turning scenarios, with reverse AEB rated adequate.

Safety assist systems include lane keep assist, emergency lane keeping, blind spot monitoring, and intelligent adaptive cruise control.

A direct driver monitoring system detects distraction and fatigue, while a seatbelt reminder system is fitted to all seating positions.

Power comes from a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine paired with a ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and BorgWarner Super Select 4WD system. The chassis supports a 3.5-tonne towing capacity and is treated with anti-corrosion protection.

The MG U9 distinguishes itself from the related LDV Terron 9 with a rear multi-link independent suspension instead of a solid axle with leaf springs. Practical features include MultiFold rear seats that open to the tub, MG Smart Hatch cabin-to-tub access, and a two-step electric folding tailgate with integrated cup holders.

Inside, the cabin includes heated and ventilated front and rear seats, a massage function for the driver, and dual 12.3-inch digital displays. Additional equipment highlights include Bosch ESP 9.3 stability systems and high-strength body materials.

Kevin Gannon, MG Motor Business Director, said:

“We wanted a dual-cab ute product that is designed and engineered for all genres of customers and the needs of ute buyers locally. We’re proud to announce the MGU9 meets ANCAP 5-star safety rating standards, ensuring excellent protection for drivers, passengers and pedestrians. Our aim is to achieve a 5-star safety rating for all new MG models introduced to the market.”

While pricing is yet to be confirmed, the ute is expected to compete with the LDV Terron 9, which starts from $50,990 drive-away for ABN holders. Prospective owners can pre-order the MG U9 through MG Motor Australia’s website or dealerships, with warranty and delivery details to be announced closer to launch.