New Chinese bakkie launched in South Africa – Pricing and features

Chinese bakkie builder JMC has introduced the all-new Vigus Single-Cab workhorse bakkie to the South African market.

The Vigus Single-Cab has arrived as JMC’s only model in this guise and its cheapest model, priced at R329,900, to be distributed by the Salvador Caetano Group.

According to the Chinese automaker, the single-cab Vigus was designed to seamlessly bridge the gap between commercial utility and everyday driving comfort.

“It steps forward as a compelling solution for fleet operators and independent contractors who refuse to compromise on performance or their bottom line,” JMC South Africa said.

“The all-new Vigus Single-Cab is a testament to our commitment to providing the local market with vehicles that are as hardworking as the people driving them.”

A familiar powertrain

JMC has given the Single-Cab the same 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine found in the rest of the Vigus range, capable of producing 123kW and 410Nm, which it sends to the rear wheels.

This motor is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission that optimises fuel consumption, which is claimed to be as low as 7.0l/100km, and the bakkie also boasts a generous 73-litre fuel tank.

Its power, combined with an expansive factory-sprayed cargo bed measuring 2,310mm long and 1,595mm wide, accommodates a full 1,000kg payload and a 2,000kg braked towing capability.

To navigate South Africa’s challenging roads and uneven worksites, JMC fitted the new Vigus with a chassis built for endurance.

The bakkie features a heavy-duty suspension system, combining a double wishbone with coil springs in the front and a leaf-spring setup at the rear, ensuring stability even under maximum load.

This system, combined with 16-inch wheels, creates a 27-degree approach angle and 22-degree departure angle, and allows a 210mm ground clearance.

Features

Inside, JMC claims to have prioritised the safety and comfort of the workforce behind the wheel.

It added that the cabin acts as a mobile office, equipped with an air conditioning system, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual USB power ports.

On top of this, the workhorse single-cab has been fitted with a range of safety and driver comfort features.

These include a standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), dual front airbags, and rear parking sensors to assist in tight loading bays.

Pricing

Prices for the entire JMC Vigus range in the South African market are as follows:

• JMC Vigus 2.5TD Single-Cab GL – R329,900 (New)
• JMC Vigus 2.5TD Double-Cab GL manual – R399,900
• JMC Vigus 2.5TD Double-Cab GL auto – R459,900
• JMC Vigus 2.5TD Double-Cab GL 4WD – R499,900

These prices include a 5-year/100,000km warranty, while dealers also offer an optional service and maintenance plan.