MG, owned by SAIC, is setting up a new car manufacturing facility in Egypt. This move marks a significant step for the brand to expand its global footprint and localize production in the region. Plans are set for an initial investment of $135 million, focusing first on the new generation of the MG5 sedan.
Expanding Global Reach
SAIC officially joined forces with Egypt’s Mansour Group on December 29 to establish the plant. This strategic partnership aims to leverage Egypt’s growing automotive market and position MG for broader distribution across the Middle East and Africa. After the MG5, the facility will gradually introduce other models, including SUVs and new energy vehicles (NEVs). This expansion aligns with the trend of Chinese automakers establishing international manufacturing hubs, much like BYD’s production lines in Hungary and Changan’s venture in Thailand.
Mansour Mobility & Manufacturing (MMM), a division of Mansour Group, has finalized a land lease agreement with Egypt’s Public Authority of Land and Dry Ports. The chosen site is within the 6th of October Industrial Park, a newly developed industrial zone. The plant is ambitious: phase one targets an annual production capacity of 50,000 vehicles, doubling to 100,000 in phase two. This increased capacity will help achieve a localization rate exceeding 45%, fostering local industry growth.
Plant Specifications
The new facility will be a comprehensive automotive production hub, featuring:
- An 8,000 m² body shop
- A 12,000 m² paint shop
- A 10,000 m² assembly shop
- Supporting facilities and administrative offices
- A 5,000 m² closed warehouse
While an exact timeline for construction and full operation remains under wraps, the scale of the plant underscores SAIC’s commitment to the Egyptian market.
The New Generation MG5: A Closer Look
The star of this new production venture is the recently launched new generation MG5 sedan. It initially hit the Chinese market in September 2024, offering three trims with prices ranging from 81,900 to 95,900 yuan (approximately $11,200 to $13,100 USD). This model builds on the legacy of the original MG5, first released in China in 2012.
As a refreshed model, the new MG5 boasts significant upgrades to its exterior, interior, and overall features. Its dimensions come in at 4715 mm long, 1842 mm wide, and 1473 mm (or 1480 mm, depending on the variant) tall, with a wheelbase of 2680 mm.
Under the hood, buyers can choose between two engine options:
- A 1.5L naturally aspirated engine producing 95 kW (127 hp) and 158 Nm of torque, paired with a CVT gearbox. This setup provides a top speed of 180 km/h and a WLTC combined fuel consumption of 6.38 L/100 km.
- A 1.5T engine delivering a punchier 133 kW (178 hp) and 285 Nm of torque, mated to a 7-speed DCT. This version reaches a top speed of 200 km/h with a WLTC combined fuel consumption of 6.45 L/100 km.
Both versions come with a 50 L fuel tank.
Inside, the cabin embraces a “light sports” theme. Drivers will appreciate the D-shaped multi-function steering wheel, a crisp 12.3-inch instrument panel, and a prominent 12.3-inch floating central control screen. This infotainment system is powered by the Zebra Venus intelligent car system, ensuring a connected and intuitive user experience. This focus on interior tech and modern design showcases MG’s strategy to deliver value and contemporary features, a common thread among competitive Chinese brands like Xiaomi with its SU7 and Nio with its Onvo L90. The MG5 is ready to carve out its niche in the Egyptian market, offering a blend of performance, practicality, and modern amenities.
