MG Targets South Africa’s Bakkie Market With U7 and U9 Launch Plans

MG Targets South Africa’s Bakkie Market With U7 and U9 Launch Plans. MG Motor South Africa is preparing to expand into the country’s competitive bakkie market with two new models, the U7 and U9, while also planning to introduce a seven-seater body-on-frame SUV.

The announcement marks a shift in the local brand’s product strategy, which has so far focused on passenger vehicles and crossovers since its return to South Africa in late 2024.

The planned bakkies will enter the light-commercial vehicle (LCV) segment, with the U7 expected to offer 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine options. The U9 will also feature a 2.5-litre turbodiesel powertrain.

Although MG has not confirmed specific local launch dates, the first bakkies are expected to arrive during the first half of 2027.

The U7 appears closely related to the updated LDV T60 Max scheduled for launch in Australia. The Australian model features a 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine producing 163kW and 520Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The U9, meanwhile, appears to share its underpinnings with the LDV Terron 9, which is already available in South Africa. The Australian version produces 160kW from its 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine, while the South African-spec LDV Terron 9 delivers 164kW.

Beyond the bakkie segment, MG Motor SA has also outlined plans to introduce a body-on-frame SUV expected to carry the TS nameplate.

The seven-seater model is expected to feature a turbodiesel engine, with a petrol option also being considered. It is believed to share much of its engineering with the LDV D90, although further specifications have not been confirmed.

MG was originally established in the United Kingdom as Morris Garages more than a century ago. The brand is now owned by China’s SAIC Motor, which also oversees the LDV and Maxus marques.

Its planned expansion into commercial vehicles will add new segments to its South African offering.