MG confirms two double-cab bakkies for South Africa next year
MG has announced it will launch two double-cab bakkies in South Africa next year, adding to a growing list of Chinese-backed rivals.
MG is set to enter the local bakkie market in 2027, according to The Citizen. The Chinese-owned British brand has officially confirmed two double-cab models for South Africa, adding to the wave of Chinese vehicles that has already crowded the SUV segment.
The U7 and U9
The two models earmarked for South Africa are the U7 and the U9. Unlike LDV, which sells single-cab and double-cab versions here, MG will offer its bakkies only as double cabs.
The U7 is expected to be a rebadged version of the facelifted LDV T60. That updated bakkie has already reached Australia, where it is called the T60 Max. The main difference on South African roads is likely to be cosmetic, with the MG logo replacing LDV badges.
In Australia the T60 Max comes in Pro and Luxe trim levels. Both use a 2.5-litre turbodiesel, the same engine found in the local LDV Terron 9, which delivers 164kW and 520Nm. Power goes to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox. A locking rear differential is standard, while a locking front differential is fitted only to the Luxe. The bakkie can tow up to 3 500kg.
The U9 was launched in Australia in 2025 as an MG-badged twin of the Terron 9. According to the report, the two share the same size, styling and drivetrain, with only the badges changing.
A crowded field
MG and LDV share a parent company, SAIC Motor. LDV arrived in South Africa in 2024 and, The Citizen noted, has not made a big impression on sales. The new MG bakkies will likely affect how LDV fares, a topic covered on the outlet’s Pitstop podcast.
The report says the MG bakkie is unlikely to threaten the market leaders, the Hilux, Ranger and D-Max. It will, however, join a long list of Chinese bakkie brands already here: Foton, JAC, JMC, Changan, BYD and GWM. Chery and Jetour are also planning to enter the segment.
What this means for buyers
Shoppers looking for a double-cab bakkie are set to have even more choice next year. The source does not give local pricing, specifications or launch dates for the MG models, so those details will need to be confirmed closer to the launch. Anyone considering one should compare it with the LDV equivalents already on sale, since the report suggests the vehicles are closely related.
This story is based on reporting by The Citizen.
