Choose the standard Explore Pro unless the opening midgate will regularly carry long, bulky loads that a normal pickup bed cannot. The Smart Hatch is useful engineering, but its PKR 1.2 million launch premium needs a real cargo purpose—and both prices now require a fresh dealer quotation.
Price first: these are launch references, not a current quotation
MG Motor Pakistan's price-reveal communication placed the Explore Pro at PKR 22,749,000 and the Explore Pro with Smart Hatch at PKR 23,949,000, a PKR 1,200,000 difference. MG's current Pakistan model page confirms the vehicle and Smart Hatch option but does not display a current price. CarRates therefore labels both amounts as launch references rather than guaranteed September prices. [1,3]
Ask an authorised dealer for a dated document separating ex-factory price, Smart Hatch option, freight, withholding tax, registration, insurance, accessories and delivery timing. A social-media announcement or old quotation is not the final payable amount.
| Configuration | Launch reference | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Explore Pro | PKR 22,749,000 | — |
| Explore Pro + Smart Hatch | PKR 23,949,000 | PKR 1,200,000 |
What the U9 hardware actually offers
MG's current page specifies a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel, four-wheel drive, 160 kW and 520 Nm. The official technical flyer adds an eight-speed ZF automatic, double-wishbone front and independent multi-link rear suspension, 220 mm unladen ground clearance and a 3,300 mm wheelbase. [1,2]
That independent rear layout is unusual in a work-focused pickup and may improve composure and cabin comfort, but a specification cannot prove ride quality under Pakistan road and load conditions. Test the truck empty and with a representative load before assuming it combines luxury-SUV comfort with commercial durability.
Smart Hatch solves one specific cargo problem
MG says the optional midgate can connect the cabin and tub, expand usable volume to as much as 1,600 litres and accommodate loads up to 2.4 metres long. It is valuable for buyers who frequently carry long equipment while retaining a closed tailgate. [1]
It is not automatically better for every owner. Check how the opened partition affects passenger seating, cabin isolation, dust, rain protection, load restraint and security. If long cargo is rare, a suitable bed system may preserve the PKR 1.2m difference without adding another body seal and mechanism to maintain.
Payload and towing numbers need disciplined reading
The flyer lists a 3,320 kg gross vehicle mass and 2,550 kg kerb weight, producing a 770 kg payload. Its stated braked towing capacity is 3,500 kg. Passengers, accessories, cargo and tow-ball load all consume available capacity; the headline tow rating cannot be added to a fully loaded vehicle without checking gross combined and axle limits. [2]
For regular towing, obtain the owner's-manual limits for the exact Pakistan vehicle and calculate the complete loaded combination. Confirm tow-bar approval, trailer brakes, tyre load ratings, insurance cover and the effect of aftermarket equipment before purchase.
One official specification conflict must be checked
MG's current model page lists 265/65 R20 wheels and tyres, while its linked technical flyer lists 275/55 R20. Both are manufacturer sources, so CarRates will not choose one silently. Inspect the delivered tyre sidewall and door-jamb placard, then price the exact replacement size. [1,2]
Also verify whether the panoramic roof, Smart Hatch and other highlighted equipment are standard or optional on the vehicle being invoiced. MG itself advises customers that some features vary and that its webpage is a general guide rather than an offer to sell a particular vehicle.
Verify before paying
- Current dated price and option quotation
- Smart Hatch demonstrated with your intended cargo
- Tyre size checked on placard and sidewall
- Payload, axle and towing limits from owner's manual
- Warranty, service network and parts lead times
Sources and corrections
The current variant and price record links to the official manufacturer or authorised distributor. CarRates writes original analysis and does not reproduce another publisher’s article.