New Chinese bakkie goes on sale in South Africa – Pricing and features

JMC has officially launched the new Vigus bakkie in South Africa.

The Chinese automaker relaunched in our market in late 2025 with the original Vigus; however, JMC recently wheeled out the new version at an event in Midrand, Gauteng.

The new Vigus Double Cab is available in three specifications, and prices start at R399,900.

The company also previewed the new Grand Avenue, a larger pickup that is set to go on sale in South Africa very soon.

Powertrain

All three versions of the Vigus are powered by a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, which generates 123kW and 430Nm.

The base model is rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and features a six-speed manual gearbox, while the mid-range option swaps the manual for an eight-speed automatic.

The top-spec version also uses the auto-shifter, but swaps the RWD setup for a four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case.

In all cases, the bakkie has a load carrying capacity of 915kg.

The company has not confirmed the towing capacity, but for reference, the old version can haul 1,650kg.

Features

The new Vigus sets itself apart from its predecessor with a blockier body, continuing the trend we’ve seen with other recent 4x4s.

The JMC name is boldly displayed in large letters at the front, flanked by a pair of LED daytime running lights.

Standard features on the high-rider includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a full-size steel spare wheel, a spray-in bedliner, and side steps.

The automatic versions also have automatic headlights and rain-sensing wipers.

The base model comes with a radio, Bluetooth, and two speakers; while the other two have a 12.8-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and four speakers.

All three trim levels have a 3.5-inch TFT instrument cluster, a multifunction steering wheel, air conditioning, fabric seats, manually adjustable front seats, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, and rear parking sensors.

The automatic version builds on this with a rearview camera, electronic stability control, hill assist, and hill descent control.

Pricing

The South African pricing for the new JMC Vigus is as follows:

• JMC Vigus Double Cab 4×2 6MT – R399,900
• JMC Vigus Double Cab 4×2 8AT – R459,900
• JMC Vigus Double Cab 4×4 8AT – R499,900

This includes a 5-year/200,000km warranty and a 4-year/65,000km service plan.