2026 MG U9 ute: Payload, GVM and other key details revealed for Ford Ranger rival
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.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
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
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
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
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
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
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
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.
Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now.
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
Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Advertiser
3 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Australia's cheapest SUV could cop price rise due to new safety standards
The new Mahindra XUV 3XO may lose the title of Australia's most affordable SUV next year after it receives upgrades to meet more stringent 2026 protocols from safety authority ANCAP. Speaking at the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO – a city-sized five-door compact SUV to rival the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mazda CX-3 – Mahindra head of international operations Sachin Arolkar said the new regulations would force the price of the XUV 3XO upwards. In doing, so the automaker risks losing the XUV 3XO's title as Australia's lowest-priced SUV. The XUV 3XO is being launched this month without an ANCAP safety rating, and while it has a five-star crash test result from Indian safety authority Bharat NCAP, the automaker confirmed that the vehicle landing in showrooms from July 4 doesn't meet the new 2026 ANCAP requirements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "We actually need to make a few adjustments to the vehicles to meet the new protocols," said Mahindra Australia marketing boss James Halliwell during a media briefing. While he didn't disclose the changes, when asked by CarExpert if meeting the new protocols will push up the price of the XUV 3XO, Mr Arolkar replied: "My guess is yes". "Obviously there's going to be changes which require investments on the product – and I'm not completely on with it in terms of the changes from a material cost perspective – but just in terms of investments required, yes." "I'm not planning to elaborate on that – it's still a work in progress; we'll come back to you on that." Therefore the price of the XUV 3XO could eclipse that of the model it replaced as Australia's cheapest SUV in the country, the Chery Tiggo 4, which has the same $23,990 drive-away price as the Mahindra once the latter's introductory pricing ends on August 31. The Tiggo 4 is at an advantage as it has both its $23,990 price and also a five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved in 2023. "The current [XUV 3XO] car is not ANCAP [rated] – the new developments which are happening on our entire portfolio for Australia are in the light of the 2026 norms," Mr Arolkar said. "We are evaluating all the new [Mahindra] products in the light of the 2026 ANCAP norms, because it's very important for us to be up-to-date." Mahindra has developed its own crash lab in India, a market in which safety has often taken a back seat to price, with a heavy investment to create models that meet global safety requirements. "The Mahindra XUV 3XO is entering a very competitive segment with a competitive price tag, and while some may suggest safety isn't important for the smaller end of the market, in fact the opposite is true," ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg told CarExpert. "It is positive to hear Mahindra are working to bring safety improvements to their future model lineup, but consumers should be aware that – until independent safety testing is undertaken – the safety performance of any new model arriving in our market is unknown." The range-wide push for five-star safety ratings in 2026 comes after the brand was caught short with a zero-star ANCAP rating on its Scorpio off-road SUV in 2023. The Scorpio has since been joined in local Mahindra showrooms by the XUV700 mid-size SUV – which like the 3XO is not ANCAP-rated – with the Pik-Up S10 dropped after it didn't meet new side-impact safety regulations introduced in late 2022. A new Pik-up is due in local showrooms in 2026 with a keen focus from Mahindra on obtaining a five-star rating, given the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha and other utes currently boast five-star ANCAP ratings . Mr Halliwell said the XUV 3XO landing in local dealers this month is still a safe vehicle, and Mahindra previously said it was designed for 'real world safety' instead of ANCAP requirements. "Given the new protocol is not very far away, there's no point in launching a vehicle with [all of] the testing [carried out] and spending a whole bunch of money on the current [ANCAP] standard when it's changing in six months' time." The XUV 3XO is a critical new model for Mahindra, which it predicts will be its best-selling model in Australia given the size of the small SUV segment here. The changes to ANCAP's new protocols for 2026 include new three-year cycles between changing testing requirements, as well as a new moving object test. "The moving object test in Australia is a very critical one for safety globally, because not only are you protecting your occupants – which we've always done – you now need to show the adverse impact on the object that you're hitting," Mr Halliwell said. "Designing a vehicle to meet those two requirements is almost contradictory in its engineering." MORE: Explore the Mahindra showroom Content originally sourced from: The new Mahindra XUV 3XO may lose the title of Australia's most affordable SUV next year after it receives upgrades to meet more stringent 2026 protocols from safety authority ANCAP. Speaking at the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO – a city-sized five-door compact SUV to rival the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mazda CX-3 – Mahindra head of international operations Sachin Arolkar said the new regulations would force the price of the XUV 3XO upwards. In doing, so the automaker risks losing the XUV 3XO's title as Australia's lowest-priced SUV. The XUV 3XO is being launched this month without an ANCAP safety rating, and while it has a five-star crash test result from Indian safety authority Bharat NCAP, the automaker confirmed that the vehicle landing in showrooms from July 4 doesn't meet the new 2026 ANCAP requirements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "We actually need to make a few adjustments to the vehicles to meet the new protocols," said Mahindra Australia marketing boss James Halliwell during a media briefing. While he didn't disclose the changes, when asked by CarExpert if meeting the new protocols will push up the price of the XUV 3XO, Mr Arolkar replied: "My guess is yes". "Obviously there's going to be changes which require investments on the product – and I'm not completely on with it in terms of the changes from a material cost perspective – but just in terms of investments required, yes." "I'm not planning to elaborate on that – it's still a work in progress; we'll come back to you on that." Therefore the price of the XUV 3XO could eclipse that of the model it replaced as Australia's cheapest SUV in the country, the Chery Tiggo 4, which has the same $23,990 drive-away price as the Mahindra once the latter's introductory pricing ends on August 31. The Tiggo 4 is at an advantage as it has both its $23,990 price and also a five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved in 2023. "The current [XUV 3XO] car is not ANCAP [rated] – the new developments which are happening on our entire portfolio for Australia are in the light of the 2026 norms," Mr Arolkar said. "We are evaluating all the new [Mahindra] products in the light of the 2026 ANCAP norms, because it's very important for us to be up-to-date." Mahindra has developed its own crash lab in India, a market in which safety has often taken a back seat to price, with a heavy investment to create models that meet global safety requirements. "The Mahindra XUV 3XO is entering a very competitive segment with a competitive price tag, and while some may suggest safety isn't important for the smaller end of the market, in fact the opposite is true," ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg told CarExpert. "It is positive to hear Mahindra are working to bring safety improvements to their future model lineup, but consumers should be aware that – until independent safety testing is undertaken – the safety performance of any new model arriving in our market is unknown." The range-wide push for five-star safety ratings in 2026 comes after the brand was caught short with a zero-star ANCAP rating on its Scorpio off-road SUV in 2023. The Scorpio has since been joined in local Mahindra showrooms by the XUV700 mid-size SUV – which like the 3XO is not ANCAP-rated – with the Pik-Up S10 dropped after it didn't meet new side-impact safety regulations introduced in late 2022. A new Pik-up is due in local showrooms in 2026 with a keen focus from Mahindra on obtaining a five-star rating, given the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha and other utes currently boast five-star ANCAP ratings . Mr Halliwell said the XUV 3XO landing in local dealers this month is still a safe vehicle, and Mahindra previously said it was designed for 'real world safety' instead of ANCAP requirements. "Given the new protocol is not very far away, there's no point in launching a vehicle with [all of] the testing [carried out] and spending a whole bunch of money on the current [ANCAP] standard when it's changing in six months' time." The XUV 3XO is a critical new model for Mahindra, which it predicts will be its best-selling model in Australia given the size of the small SUV segment here. The changes to ANCAP's new protocols for 2026 include new three-year cycles between changing testing requirements, as well as a new moving object test. "The moving object test in Australia is a very critical one for safety globally, because not only are you protecting your occupants – which we've always done – you now need to show the adverse impact on the object that you're hitting," Mr Halliwell said. "Designing a vehicle to meet those two requirements is almost contradictory in its engineering." MORE: Explore the Mahindra showroom Content originally sourced from: The new Mahindra XUV 3XO may lose the title of Australia's most affordable SUV next year after it receives upgrades to meet more stringent 2026 protocols from safety authority ANCAP. Speaking at the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO – a city-sized five-door compact SUV to rival the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mazda CX-3 – Mahindra head of international operations Sachin Arolkar said the new regulations would force the price of the XUV 3XO upwards. In doing, so the automaker risks losing the XUV 3XO's title as Australia's lowest-priced SUV. The XUV 3XO is being launched this month without an ANCAP safety rating, and while it has a five-star crash test result from Indian safety authority Bharat NCAP, the automaker confirmed that the vehicle landing in showrooms from July 4 doesn't meet the new 2026 ANCAP requirements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "We actually need to make a few adjustments to the vehicles to meet the new protocols," said Mahindra Australia marketing boss James Halliwell during a media briefing. While he didn't disclose the changes, when asked by CarExpert if meeting the new protocols will push up the price of the XUV 3XO, Mr Arolkar replied: "My guess is yes". "Obviously there's going to be changes which require investments on the product – and I'm not completely on with it in terms of the changes from a material cost perspective – but just in terms of investments required, yes." "I'm not planning to elaborate on that – it's still a work in progress; we'll come back to you on that." Therefore the price of the XUV 3XO could eclipse that of the model it replaced as Australia's cheapest SUV in the country, the Chery Tiggo 4, which has the same $23,990 drive-away price as the Mahindra once the latter's introductory pricing ends on August 31. The Tiggo 4 is at an advantage as it has both its $23,990 price and also a five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved in 2023. "The current [XUV 3XO] car is not ANCAP [rated] – the new developments which are happening on our entire portfolio for Australia are in the light of the 2026 norms," Mr Arolkar said. "We are evaluating all the new [Mahindra] products in the light of the 2026 ANCAP norms, because it's very important for us to be up-to-date." Mahindra has developed its own crash lab in India, a market in which safety has often taken a back seat to price, with a heavy investment to create models that meet global safety requirements. "The Mahindra XUV 3XO is entering a very competitive segment with a competitive price tag, and while some may suggest safety isn't important for the smaller end of the market, in fact the opposite is true," ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg told CarExpert. "It is positive to hear Mahindra are working to bring safety improvements to their future model lineup, but consumers should be aware that – until independent safety testing is undertaken – the safety performance of any new model arriving in our market is unknown." The range-wide push for five-star safety ratings in 2026 comes after the brand was caught short with a zero-star ANCAP rating on its Scorpio off-road SUV in 2023. The Scorpio has since been joined in local Mahindra showrooms by the XUV700 mid-size SUV – which like the 3XO is not ANCAP-rated – with the Pik-Up S10 dropped after it didn't meet new side-impact safety regulations introduced in late 2022. A new Pik-up is due in local showrooms in 2026 with a keen focus from Mahindra on obtaining a five-star rating, given the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha and other utes currently boast five-star ANCAP ratings . Mr Halliwell said the XUV 3XO landing in local dealers this month is still a safe vehicle, and Mahindra previously said it was designed for 'real world safety' instead of ANCAP requirements. "Given the new protocol is not very far away, there's no point in launching a vehicle with [all of] the testing [carried out] and spending a whole bunch of money on the current [ANCAP] standard when it's changing in six months' time." The XUV 3XO is a critical new model for Mahindra, which it predicts will be its best-selling model in Australia given the size of the small SUV segment here. The changes to ANCAP's new protocols for 2026 include new three-year cycles between changing testing requirements, as well as a new moving object test. "The moving object test in Australia is a very critical one for safety globally, because not only are you protecting your occupants – which we've always done – you now need to show the adverse impact on the object that you're hitting," Mr Halliwell said. "Designing a vehicle to meet those two requirements is almost contradictory in its engineering." MORE: Explore the Mahindra showroom Content originally sourced from: The new Mahindra XUV 3XO may lose the title of Australia's most affordable SUV next year after it receives upgrades to meet more stringent 2026 protocols from safety authority ANCAP. Speaking at the launch of the Mahindra XUV 3XO – a city-sized five-door compact SUV to rival the Chery Tiggo 4 and Mazda CX-3 – Mahindra head of international operations Sachin Arolkar said the new regulations would force the price of the XUV 3XO upwards. In doing, so the automaker risks losing the XUV 3XO's title as Australia's lowest-priced SUV. The XUV 3XO is being launched this month without an ANCAP safety rating, and while it has a five-star crash test result from Indian safety authority Bharat NCAP, the automaker confirmed that the vehicle landing in showrooms from July 4 doesn't meet the new 2026 ANCAP requirements. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "We actually need to make a few adjustments to the vehicles to meet the new protocols," said Mahindra Australia marketing boss James Halliwell during a media briefing. While he didn't disclose the changes, when asked by CarExpert if meeting the new protocols will push up the price of the XUV 3XO, Mr Arolkar replied: "My guess is yes". "Obviously there's going to be changes which require investments on the product – and I'm not completely on with it in terms of the changes from a material cost perspective – but just in terms of investments required, yes." "I'm not planning to elaborate on that – it's still a work in progress; we'll come back to you on that." Therefore the price of the XUV 3XO could eclipse that of the model it replaced as Australia's cheapest SUV in the country, the Chery Tiggo 4, which has the same $23,990 drive-away price as the Mahindra once the latter's introductory pricing ends on August 31. The Tiggo 4 is at an advantage as it has both its $23,990 price and also a five-star ANCAP safety rating achieved in 2023. "The current [XUV 3XO] car is not ANCAP [rated] – the new developments which are happening on our entire portfolio for Australia are in the light of the 2026 norms," Mr Arolkar said. "We are evaluating all the new [Mahindra] products in the light of the 2026 ANCAP norms, because it's very important for us to be up-to-date." Mahindra has developed its own crash lab in India, a market in which safety has often taken a back seat to price, with a heavy investment to create models that meet global safety requirements. "The Mahindra XUV 3XO is entering a very competitive segment with a competitive price tag, and while some may suggest safety isn't important for the smaller end of the market, in fact the opposite is true," ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg told CarExpert. "It is positive to hear Mahindra are working to bring safety improvements to their future model lineup, but consumers should be aware that – until independent safety testing is undertaken – the safety performance of any new model arriving in our market is unknown." The range-wide push for five-star safety ratings in 2026 comes after the brand was caught short with a zero-star ANCAP rating on its Scorpio off-road SUV in 2023. The Scorpio has since been joined in local Mahindra showrooms by the XUV700 mid-size SUV – which like the 3XO is not ANCAP-rated – with the Pik-Up S10 dropped after it didn't meet new side-impact safety regulations introduced in late 2022. A new Pik-up is due in local showrooms in 2026 with a keen focus from Mahindra on obtaining a five-star rating, given the Ford Ranger, BYD Shark 6, GWM Cannon Alpha and other utes currently boast five-star ANCAP ratings . Mr Halliwell said the XUV 3XO landing in local dealers this month is still a safe vehicle, and Mahindra previously said it was designed for 'real world safety' instead of ANCAP requirements. "Given the new protocol is not very far away, there's no point in launching a vehicle with [all of] the testing [carried out] and spending a whole bunch of money on the current [ANCAP] standard when it's changing in six months' time." The XUV 3XO is a critical new model for Mahindra, which it predicts will be its best-selling model in Australia given the size of the small SUV segment here. The changes to ANCAP's new protocols for 2026 include new three-year cycles between changing testing requirements, as well as a new moving object test. "The moving object test in Australia is a very critical one for safety globally, because not only are you protecting your occupants – which we've always done – you now need to show the adverse impact on the object that you're hitting," Mr Halliwell said. "Designing a vehicle to meet those two requirements is almost contradictory in its engineering." MORE: Explore the Mahindra showroom Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
3 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Used car prices are 'ridiculous', says MG boss
Australians are paying 'ridiculous' prices for used cars, says MG Motor Australia CEO, Peter Ciao. And he has a plan to correct the market, while encouraging more new-car buyers, with a three-pronged powertrain strategy that's designed to challenge the status quo. "For me, the used car price in Australia is ridiculous. It's too high," Ciao told CarExpert in an exclusive interview. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "There are more than one million used car buyers each year, and lots of people will purchase a used car because they trust this brand and [will] pay 70 per cent of the price for a car that has already driven 50,000km, 80,000km or more, and maybe only has one year left on the warranty. Why would you do that? "At MG, we need to challenge this." The Chinese automaker has firmly established itself as a top-10 selling brand in Australia, on the strength of its budget-focused range of small passenger vehicles, family-friendly SUVs and, to a certain degree, the affordable MG 4 electric hatchback. But it is in the midst expanding its model portfolio with new fuel-efficient powertrains across its core product lineup, with models such as the MG 3 city hatch and the ZS small SUV now offered with the choice of conventional petrol engines or hybrid options. And, in the case of the HS mid-size SUV and the upcoming QS seven-seat SUV, also with 'Super Hybrid' plug-in alternatives. This, claims Mr Ciao, provides MG with the ability to challenge the used car market with entry-level models powered by internal combustion engines, while tackling the lower end of mainstream brands with hybrid vehicles, and also conventional hybrid rivals with the added benefit of plug-in technology at similar prices. "With a population of 27 million people, everyone's budget is different. And, at MG, we look after everyone, and we challenge the other OEMs [automakers]. "With MG, I will provide a new car with a 10-year warranty that is priced similarly to a used car. For MG 3, ZS, HS and QS with ICE powertrains, I will focus on why you shouldn't buy a used car. "For hybrid, I'll use this to benchmark against other OEMs offering entry-level models with stronger Hybrid+ value. "[And] with Super Hybrid, I will compete with the top hybrids. The benefit will be to provide more for the same price, as the MG Super Hybrid is much, much better than a normal hybrid. "This is my strategy: I will use ICE to target used car buyers, hybrid to target OEM petrol, and Super Hybrid to target other hybrids." Watch this space for our full Expert Insights interview with Mr Ciao this weekend. MORE: Everything MG Content originally sourced from: Australians are paying 'ridiculous' prices for used cars, says MG Motor Australia CEO, Peter Ciao. And he has a plan to correct the market, while encouraging more new-car buyers, with a three-pronged powertrain strategy that's designed to challenge the status quo. "For me, the used car price in Australia is ridiculous. It's too high," Ciao told CarExpert in an exclusive interview. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "There are more than one million used car buyers each year, and lots of people will purchase a used car because they trust this brand and [will] pay 70 per cent of the price for a car that has already driven 50,000km, 80,000km or more, and maybe only has one year left on the warranty. Why would you do that? "At MG, we need to challenge this." The Chinese automaker has firmly established itself as a top-10 selling brand in Australia, on the strength of its budget-focused range of small passenger vehicles, family-friendly SUVs and, to a certain degree, the affordable MG 4 electric hatchback. But it is in the midst expanding its model portfolio with new fuel-efficient powertrains across its core product lineup, with models such as the MG 3 city hatch and the ZS small SUV now offered with the choice of conventional petrol engines or hybrid options. And, in the case of the HS mid-size SUV and the upcoming QS seven-seat SUV, also with 'Super Hybrid' plug-in alternatives. This, claims Mr Ciao, provides MG with the ability to challenge the used car market with entry-level models powered by internal combustion engines, while tackling the lower end of mainstream brands with hybrid vehicles, and also conventional hybrid rivals with the added benefit of plug-in technology at similar prices. "With a population of 27 million people, everyone's budget is different. And, at MG, we look after everyone, and we challenge the other OEMs [automakers]. "With MG, I will provide a new car with a 10-year warranty that is priced similarly to a used car. For MG 3, ZS, HS and QS with ICE powertrains, I will focus on why you shouldn't buy a used car. "For hybrid, I'll use this to benchmark against other OEMs offering entry-level models with stronger Hybrid+ value. "[And] with Super Hybrid, I will compete with the top hybrids. The benefit will be to provide more for the same price, as the MG Super Hybrid is much, much better than a normal hybrid. "This is my strategy: I will use ICE to target used car buyers, hybrid to target OEM petrol, and Super Hybrid to target other hybrids." Watch this space for our full Expert Insights interview with Mr Ciao this weekend. MORE: Everything MG Content originally sourced from: Australians are paying 'ridiculous' prices for used cars, says MG Motor Australia CEO, Peter Ciao. And he has a plan to correct the market, while encouraging more new-car buyers, with a three-pronged powertrain strategy that's designed to challenge the status quo. "For me, the used car price in Australia is ridiculous. It's too high," Ciao told CarExpert in an exclusive interview. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "There are more than one million used car buyers each year, and lots of people will purchase a used car because they trust this brand and [will] pay 70 per cent of the price for a car that has already driven 50,000km, 80,000km or more, and maybe only has one year left on the warranty. Why would you do that? "At MG, we need to challenge this." The Chinese automaker has firmly established itself as a top-10 selling brand in Australia, on the strength of its budget-focused range of small passenger vehicles, family-friendly SUVs and, to a certain degree, the affordable MG 4 electric hatchback. But it is in the midst expanding its model portfolio with new fuel-efficient powertrains across its core product lineup, with models such as the MG 3 city hatch and the ZS small SUV now offered with the choice of conventional petrol engines or hybrid options. And, in the case of the HS mid-size SUV and the upcoming QS seven-seat SUV, also with 'Super Hybrid' plug-in alternatives. This, claims Mr Ciao, provides MG with the ability to challenge the used car market with entry-level models powered by internal combustion engines, while tackling the lower end of mainstream brands with hybrid vehicles, and also conventional hybrid rivals with the added benefit of plug-in technology at similar prices. "With a population of 27 million people, everyone's budget is different. And, at MG, we look after everyone, and we challenge the other OEMs [automakers]. "With MG, I will provide a new car with a 10-year warranty that is priced similarly to a used car. For MG 3, ZS, HS and QS with ICE powertrains, I will focus on why you shouldn't buy a used car. "For hybrid, I'll use this to benchmark against other OEMs offering entry-level models with stronger Hybrid+ value. "[And] with Super Hybrid, I will compete with the top hybrids. The benefit will be to provide more for the same price, as the MG Super Hybrid is much, much better than a normal hybrid. "This is my strategy: I will use ICE to target used car buyers, hybrid to target OEM petrol, and Super Hybrid to target other hybrids." Watch this space for our full Expert Insights interview with Mr Ciao this weekend. MORE: Everything MG Content originally sourced from: Australians are paying 'ridiculous' prices for used cars, says MG Motor Australia CEO, Peter Ciao. And he has a plan to correct the market, while encouraging more new-car buyers, with a three-pronged powertrain strategy that's designed to challenge the status quo. "For me, the used car price in Australia is ridiculous. It's too high," Ciao told CarExpert in an exclusive interview. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. "There are more than one million used car buyers each year, and lots of people will purchase a used car because they trust this brand and [will] pay 70 per cent of the price for a car that has already driven 50,000km, 80,000km or more, and maybe only has one year left on the warranty. Why would you do that? "At MG, we need to challenge this." The Chinese automaker has firmly established itself as a top-10 selling brand in Australia, on the strength of its budget-focused range of small passenger vehicles, family-friendly SUVs and, to a certain degree, the affordable MG 4 electric hatchback. But it is in the midst expanding its model portfolio with new fuel-efficient powertrains across its core product lineup, with models such as the MG 3 city hatch and the ZS small SUV now offered with the choice of conventional petrol engines or hybrid options. And, in the case of the HS mid-size SUV and the upcoming QS seven-seat SUV, also with 'Super Hybrid' plug-in alternatives. This, claims Mr Ciao, provides MG with the ability to challenge the used car market with entry-level models powered by internal combustion engines, while tackling the lower end of mainstream brands with hybrid vehicles, and also conventional hybrid rivals with the added benefit of plug-in technology at similar prices. "With a population of 27 million people, everyone's budget is different. And, at MG, we look after everyone, and we challenge the other OEMs [automakers]. "With MG, I will provide a new car with a 10-year warranty that is priced similarly to a used car. For MG 3, ZS, HS and QS with ICE powertrains, I will focus on why you shouldn't buy a used car. "For hybrid, I'll use this to benchmark against other OEMs offering entry-level models with stronger Hybrid+ value. "[And] with Super Hybrid, I will compete with the top hybrids. The benefit will be to provide more for the same price, as the MG Super Hybrid is much, much better than a normal hybrid. "This is my strategy: I will use ICE to target used car buyers, hybrid to target OEM petrol, and Super Hybrid to target other hybrids." Watch this space for our full Expert Insights interview with Mr Ciao this weekend. MORE: Everything MG Content originally sourced from:
The Advertiser
3 hours ago
- The Advertiser
2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection brings extra value
BMW Australia will bolster its fourth-generation 1 Series hatch lineup with a special edition, bringing standard metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof. The 2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection is priced at $64,900 drive-away nationally, and is available to order now ahead of first customer deliveries later this quarter (July-September). The standard 118 M Sport, in contrast, is currently priced at $57,600 before on-road costs or $64,753 for Victorian buyers, and metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof are optional extras. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Available metallic finishes comprise Thundernight (purple), Black Sapphire, M Portimao Blue, Skyscraper Grey and Fire Red. There are no other extras and the front-wheel drive 118 Sport Collection continues to be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. This produces 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque, and comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection standard equipment: MORE: Everything BMW 1 Series Content originally sourced from: BMW Australia will bolster its fourth-generation 1 Series hatch lineup with a special edition, bringing standard metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof. The 2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection is priced at $64,900 drive-away nationally, and is available to order now ahead of first customer deliveries later this quarter (July-September). The standard 118 M Sport, in contrast, is currently priced at $57,600 before on-road costs or $64,753 for Victorian buyers, and metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof are optional extras. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Available metallic finishes comprise Thundernight (purple), Black Sapphire, M Portimao Blue, Skyscraper Grey and Fire Red. There are no other extras and the front-wheel drive 118 Sport Collection continues to be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. This produces 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque, and comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection standard equipment: MORE: Everything BMW 1 Series Content originally sourced from: BMW Australia will bolster its fourth-generation 1 Series hatch lineup with a special edition, bringing standard metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof. The 2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection is priced at $64,900 drive-away nationally, and is available to order now ahead of first customer deliveries later this quarter (July-September). The standard 118 M Sport, in contrast, is currently priced at $57,600 before on-road costs or $64,753 for Victorian buyers, and metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof are optional extras. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Available metallic finishes comprise Thundernight (purple), Black Sapphire, M Portimao Blue, Skyscraper Grey and Fire Red. There are no other extras and the front-wheel drive 118 Sport Collection continues to be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. This produces 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque, and comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection standard equipment: MORE: Everything BMW 1 Series Content originally sourced from: BMW Australia will bolster its fourth-generation 1 Series hatch lineup with a special edition, bringing standard metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof. The 2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection is priced at $64,900 drive-away nationally, and is available to order now ahead of first customer deliveries later this quarter (July-September). The standard 118 M Sport, in contrast, is currently priced at $57,600 before on-road costs or $64,753 for Victorian buyers, and metallic paint and a panoramic sunroof are optional extras. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Available metallic finishes comprise Thundernight (purple), Black Sapphire, M Portimao Blue, Skyscraper Grey and Fire Red. There are no other extras and the front-wheel drive 118 Sport Collection continues to be powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine. This produces 115kW of power and 230Nm of torque, and comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. 2025 BMW 118 Sport Collection standard equipment: MORE: Everything BMW 1 Series Content originally sourced from:
