{
  "id": 17560715,
  "title": "MG makes it official: Pair of bakkies coming to South Africa in 2027",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/01/mg-makes-it-official-pair-of-bakkies-coming-to-south-africa-in-2027",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-01T08:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/motoring/mg-confirms-two-bakkies-for-south-africa/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "MG, a brand owned by SAIC Motor, has confirmed it will enter the double-cab bakkie market in South Africa next year with two new models. The announcement was made during the company's inaugural Tech Day and Premium SUV conference in Johannesburg on Wednesday (28 October). The first of the two models to be unveiled is the U7, followed by the range-topping U9 in 2027.\n\nThe U7 is expected to be a rebadged version of the LDV T60, a model already sold as an MG in some markets. The most noticeable difference for South Africa will likely be the aesthetic changes, with LDV badges replaced by the MG logo. The U7 will be available in two trim levels, Pro and Luxe, both powered by a 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 164kW/520Nm. The vehicle will have rear or all-wheel drive options, an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and the ability to tow 3,500 kg. Standard features include a locking rear differential and, on the Luxe trim, a locking front differential.\n\nThe U9, on the other hand, is more clearly defined as it has already been released in Australia as a rebadged version of the Terron 9. The U9 will likely have the same drivetrain as the U7 and Terron 9, but with upgraded spec levels and a higher price tag. The Terron 9, also known as the Maxus Interstellar X in China, will serve as the base for Volkswagen's next-generation Amarok in South America, which will feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain. However, there is currently no information about whether this powertrain will be offered to the U9 and Terron 9 in South Africa. More details about the U9 are expected to be revealed in the new year.",
  "summary": "Both models will be spun-off sibling brands of LDV's current models, the T60 and Terron 9.",
  "key_points": [
    "MG to launch two bakkies in South Africa in 2027",
    "U7 model based on LDV T60 with 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine",
    "U9 model similar to Terron 9 with potential plug-in hybrid powertrain"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 3,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "IOL",
        "title": "Local government elections could stem semigration tide in South Africa",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/01/local-government-elections-could-stem-semigration-tide-in-south-africa",
        "published": "2026-11-01T04:00:00.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "SABC News",
        "title": "African trade partners are asking for more from South Africa: Tau",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/01/african-trade-partners-are-asking-for-more-from-south-africa-tau",
        "published": "2026-11-01T09:59:22.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}