Toyota HiLux vs MG U9
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 Toyota HiLux starts from $33,990 before on-road costs, while the MG U9 opens at $52,990. That makes the Toyota HiLux the more affordable entry point by $19,000.
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 $37,389 and $58,289 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 Toyota HiLux features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the MG U9 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
Interior trim differs: the Toyota HiLux gets fabric upholstery while the MG U9 offers artificial leather.
Drivetrain
The Toyota HiLux uses a 2.8L 4-cyl Turbo-Diesel producing 150kW and 420Nm of torque, sent through a manual to a 4x2 layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.2 seconds.
The MG U9 responds with a 2.5L Turbo Diesel making 160kW and 520Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels.
The MG U9 has the clear power advantage at 160kW vs 150kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Toyota HiLux measures 5,380mm long on a 3,085mm wheelbase, 120mm shorter than the MG U9 at 5,500mm (3,300mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG U9 generally means more rear legroom.
0For towing, the MG U9 leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 2,900kg. That 600kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 13.3m
Based on 10.8m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 13.3m 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 $2,081/year for the Toyota HiLux and $2,252/year for the MG U9. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Toyota HiLux.
Estimated annual total: $2,081 (Toyota HiLux) vs $2,252 (MG U9). The Toyota HiLux saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota HiLux) vs 10 years / 250,000km (MG U9). The MG U9 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Toyota HiLux if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG U9 if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG U9 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Toyota HiLux will save you roughly $171 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Toyota HiLux and MG U9?
The Toyota HiLux is the cheapest at $33,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the MG U9 by $19,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Toyota HiLux uses the least fuel at 7.3L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Toyota HiLux all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The MG U9 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG U9 has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The MG U9 makes the most power at 160kW.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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