FACT spent the day in MG’s all-new RX9 Premium, a luxurious full-sized SUV that proved as capable off-road as it is on the tarmac.

MG Motors is celebrating its 100th anniversary this December.

This popular British-born, Chinese-owned brand has developed an almost cult-like following among many sports car enthusiasts, experiencing a broader revival of interest in recent years.

With this in mind, we could not think of a better time to be invited by the team at MG Motor Qatar to test drive the marque’s latest offering, the RX9 Premium.

Striking Exterior

Renowned for its zippy sports cars, we were fascinated to uncover what this well-established brand could accomplish in the premium SUV segment.

Our first impression was that it exuded a powerful yet elegant presence. From head-on, the car’s 1,967mm width was apparent, emphasised by the vehicle’s prominent Starburst Wing Grille. We were highly impressed by how smoothly the sleek headlights have been integrated into the design, along with the 245 laser-engraved LED light units, further enhancing the SUV’s eye-catching front profile.

Following the RX9’s sleek lines to the flanks, we appreciated the car’s contours, taking note of the stylish 21-inch, dual-tone alloy wheels that not only amplify the vehicle’s visual appeal but also ensure stability and top performance both on and off the tarmac. Pop-out flush door handles add yet another touch of class to an already impressive exterior.

Once at the rear, we took in the sturdy-looking diffuser, the modish dual exhaust décor and the tastefully designed rear headlight display running the full width of the vehicle.

The RX9 is offered in six exterior colours, all of which are inspired by nature.

Spacious Interior

The all-new RX9 Premium is available in three trim levels that include the entry-level STD 2.0 Turbo and the mid-tier COM 2.0 Turbo. Fortunate enough to be experiencing the top-of-the-range LUX 2.0 Turbo trim, we were greeted by a lavish interior.

On inspection of the thoughtfully designed cockpit, we noticed the high-quality wood grain trim of the dashboard, bestowing the vehicle with an air of elegance. We also admired the overall tasteful design of the layout, complete with perfectly positioned controls for maximum functionality.

We were pleasantly surprised by the generous amount of space on offer. The three-row, seven-seater layout provides ample leg, shoulder, knee and foot room for all occupants, with the third row boasting the largest seating space in its class.

Adding to the practical and roomy nature of the RX9 is the large luggage compartment, an area that can be expanded to 1,026 litres of storage space in the five-seat configuration. A power tailgate accentuates the car’s practical personality.

The designers at MG have ensured the interior of this highend vehicle is extremely comfortable, with the eight-way, electronically adjustable driver’s seat, with memory function, providing a commanding view of the terrain ahead. The front passenger need not be too jealous, however, as they also get the royal treatment with a four-way electronically adjustable seat offering personalised comfort.

Hopping into the back seating, we discovered the 140° reclining second-row seats to offer flight-like comfort, with the third row providing up to 35° of reclining relief.

All seats in the LUX trim mode feature premium leather and are available in black or two-tone beige and brown.

After our thorough inspection of the luxurious interior, we concluded that the RX9’s cabin maintains a sophisticated yet practical design for both day-to-day use and longer journeys.

Functional Tech & Infotainment

Having experienced a multitude of infotainment setups over the years, we always save our highest praise for those we find to be fast and user-friendly. With the RX9 Premium, MG has delivered on both counts.

Dual, high-quality 12.3-inch touch screens have been installed in the brand’s latest creation, ensuring entertainment was always at our fingertips. We were able to effortlessly navigate through the system’s information, locating whatever we needed within a few seconds.

Adding to the convenient and high-end feel of the SUV were features including the hidden intelligent air-conditioning controls. MG has ensured that no matter how hot the weather conditions become outside, all those inside the vehicle remain as cool and comfortable as can be.

Amplifying our experience and providing the soundtrack to our day was the advanced 12-speaker premium Bose audio setup, with its cinema-quality sound. We listened to several of our favourite albums throughout the day, as we could not get enough of this superb stereo system.

Further must-mentions include wireless phone charging and smartphone integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Capable Power & Performance

As is always the case, our favourite part of the day was heading out onto the roads.

What must be said is the all-new MG RX9 Premium has been designed to deliver exceptional performance across all terrains. With five adaptive driving modes – Auto, Eco, Sport, Snow and Off-road, negotiating the busy city streets of Doha during rush hour, flying along the highway or taking a sharp turn off the tarmac onto the sands was a pleasure. We found this rugged, yet refined vehicle fully equipped to tackle any terrain we directed under it with relative ease.

Powered by a new Net Blue 2.0 Turbo super-efficient engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, we had all the power and control we needed at hand. At higher speeds we felt the vehicle to be stable and responsive, providing the desired acceleration, speed, handling and braking capacity to always feel in complete control of the driving experience.

“Fortunate enough to be experiencing the top-of-the-range LUX 2.0 Turbo trim, we were greeted by a lavish interior.”

Safety First

MG has placed the safety of you and your loved ones at the forefront of the RX9’s design.

The vehicle’s robust structure incorporates over 81% high-strength steel, with ultra-high strength thermoformed steel used in key areas of the passenger compartment for enhanced protection. This premium SUV also meets the latest C-NCAP crash safety standards, ensuring the highest level of occupant safety.

Equipped with Bosch’s third generation Intelligent Front View Camera and fifth generation Millimetre Wave Radar, the RX9 offers advanced driver-assistance systems for all-around protection.

With side and curtain airbags and advanced driver assistance systems that include Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Keep Assist, Emergency Lane Keeping, Intelligent High Beam Control, Adaptive Cruise Control and a Blind Spot Monitoring System, this SUV provides peace of mind whenever and wherever you choose to travel.

Our Verdict

MG has shown itself to be more than a one-trick pony, delivering a classy, capable and well-equipped SUV, superbly designed to deliver both on and off the roads. ✤

GO: CALL 4040 1444 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A MEMORABLE TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN.