New Models / 23 April 2026 / Warren Hawkins

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

As part of the relaunch of the Chinese bakkie builder JMC in South Africa, the brand has unveiled the all-new Vigus double-cab bakkie, replacing the one unveiled late in 2025.

The new Vigus was first unveiled at the start of the month, with more details arriving since its initial launch.

Priced from R399,900, the new Vigus is available in three specifications that were all extensively tested before its launch in South Africa.

“The Vigus has been validated over 4 million kilometres of intensive testing, the equivalent of circling the Earth 100 times, to ensure it lives up to the promise of unmatched durability,” said JMC.

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

Powertrain

All three derivatives of the Vigus make use of the same turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, which produces 123kW and 430Nm.

This motor is coupled with a six-speed manual gearbox in the entry-level variant, which sends power to the back wheels exclusively.

The mid-range option sees its gearbox upgraded from a six-speed manual to an eight-speed automatic, yet remains a rear-wheel-drive option.

At the top of the range, JMC has fitted the Vigus with the same eight-speed automatic, which now distributes the power to all four wheels instead.

All three variants are capable of carrying loads up to 915kg, and while the towing capacity is yet to be confirmed, the previous version is capable of towing 1,650kg.

Features

JMC gave the all-new Vigus an entirely new look, with a refreshed front face, which it claims is “mecha-inspired”, that features the JMC name boldly displayed in large letters between a pair of LED daytime running lights.

The bakkie’s frame has also been upgraded to feature more muscular body lines and stands on a platform measuring 5,335mm long and nearly 1,900mm wide, 750mm of which is its cargo bed, and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the Vigus has been fitted with ergonomic seats designed by Lear, as well as a respectable technology suite, including a 12.8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 9-inch floating instrument cluster.

All three trim levels feature a multifunction steering wheel, air conditioning, manually adjustable front seats, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring, and rear parking sensors.

The top-spec version adds a rearview camera, electronic stability control, hill assist, and hill descent control.