MG U9 vs Volkswagen Amarok
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Utes compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The MG U9 starts from $52,990 before on-road costs, while the Volkswagen Amarok opens at $55,990. That makes the MG U9 the more affordable entry point by $3,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $58,289 and $61,589 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
The MG U9 features a 12.3-inch touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital dash, while the Volkswagen Amarok gets a 8-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG U9 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto that you will not find on the Volkswagen Amarok. The Volkswagen Amarok counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The MG U9 uses a 2.5L Turbo Diesel producing 160kW and 520Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a 4WD layout.
The Volkswagen Amarok responds with a Diesel making 125kW and 405Nm, paired to a auto driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The MG U9 has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 125kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG U9 measures 5,500mm long on a 3,300mm wheelbase, 150mm longer than the Volkswagen Amarok at 5,350mm (3,270mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG U9 generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the Volkswagen Amarok leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.9m to 13.3m
Based on 13.3m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.9m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,252/year for the MG U9 and $2,280/year for the Volkswagen Amarok. That is a $28 annual difference in favour of the MG U9.
Estimated annual total: $2,252 (MG U9) vs $2,280 (Volkswagen Amarok). The MG U9 saves you roughly $28 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG U9) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Volkswagen Amarok). The MG U9 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG U9 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Volkswagen Amarok if: You or prefer Volkswagen's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG U9 takes 4 of 4 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The MG U9 will save you roughly $28 a year in fuel. The MG U9 adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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