New JMC Vigus launches as one of South Africa’s most affordable double cab bakkies
The all-new JMC Vigus double cab is priced from R399,900.
Image: Supplied
Chinese brand JMC returned to South Africa in late 2025, kicking off operations with the older-generation Vigus bakkie range.
But waiting in the wings was the new-generation model, which made its grand entrance at a glitzy event in Midrand on Thursday evening, where the importer also announced the all-important pricing.
Available in a single specification level, the new JMC Vigus starts at R399,900 for the 4x2 manual double cab and R459,900 for the automatic version, while the 4x4 auto is yours for R499,900.
The new model is similar in length to the Toyota Hilux.
Image: Supplied
This makes it the least expensive double cab bakkie on the market, albeit tied with the Foton Tunland TL and JAC T8 Lux. It also undercuts the previous JMC Vigus by R40,000.
The new Vigus is essentially the third-generation JMC Baodian in China. While the first two generations used Isuzu and then Ford underpinnings, the new model has been independently developed, and power comes from a newly designed 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine that produces 123kW and 430Nm. It is paired with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
Later in 2026, JMC will launch the more upmarket Grand Avenue bakkie, which is slightly larger than the Vigus and features an upgraded version of the aforementioned engine, delivering a healthy 155kW and 500Nm. While this will be priced at a premium to the Vigus, it won’t carry a significant premium, a JMC representative told IOL at the launch event. However, further details will be released later in the year.
The JMC Grand Avenue, due later in 2026, is a larger and more upmarket bakkie variant.
Image: Supplied
What to expect from the new Vigus
Although the new JMC Vigus undercuts its Japanese rivals on price, it is similar in size, with its overall length of 5,335mm placing it between the Hilux and Ranger, although it is a little narrower.
Full specifications were not released at the time of writing, but JMC is claiming a load capacity that’s among the best in class, within a load bay measuring 1.55 x 1.60 metres. The body features 68% high-strength steel.
The interior features two digital screens.
Image: Supplied
Interior features include a 12.8-inch touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 9.0-inch ‘floating’ instrument cluster, cruise control, and a reverse camera, while safety features include a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Hill-Start Assist, and Hill Descent Control.
The JMC brand is imported and distributed by Salvador Caetano, which also represents the GAC brand in South Africa.
JMC models are sold through 40 dealers, and the new-generation Vigus is set to go on sale this week. Further details on the new range will be released in due course.
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The JMC Grand Avenue, due later in 2026, is a larger and more upmarket bakkie variant.
Image: Supplied