Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) has formally announced its return to South Africa.
Having quietly exited the market a few years ago, the Chinese automaker made an announcement in July that it would relaunch in South Africa before the end of the year with a selection of new models meant to compete in the ever-popular bakkie sphere.
Imported by Salvador Caetano Auto South Africa (the same distributor behind GAC), the company has disclosed its initial product lineup, which consists of one single cab and two double cab units for the Vigus pickup.
“Salvador Caetano South Africa is proud to announce the official return of the JMC brand locally, bringing back a marque that has been known and trusted in Mzansi for many years,” it said.
“As the newly appointed importer and distributor of JMC, Salvador Caetano promises a renewed vigour and focus, stronger global and local backing, as well as a clear mission of establishing products which are Built for More.”
The Vigus is a returning model for South Africa, but JMC previously stated that we will also receive a new bakkie called the Grand Avenue in the near future.
It also stated that it plans to roll out 40 dealerships nationwide by 2026.
Unfortunately, the carmaker has yet to disclose the pricing for the Vigus, but it has published the spec sheet for all its models, so we can see what’s on offer.
A familiar bakkie
The current-generation Vigus is sold in a single trim level with three variants.
The entry-level single cab workhorse is fitted with a 2.4-litre “Puma” turbocharged diesel engine, which generates 103kW and 310Nm.
It is only available in rear-wheel-drive, and comes with a five-speed manual gearbox.
JMC stated that it has a load carrying capacity of “close to a ton” and a braked towing capacity of 2,000kg.
Standard equipment on the bakkie includes central locking, electric windows, LED daytime running lights, front fog lamps, 17-inch alloy wheels, a steel spare wheel, chrome handles, and a rubberized cargo box with rope hooks and a guard rail.
It also features a radio with four speakers, Bluetooth, a USB port, cruise control, a multifunction steering wheel, a central glove box, manual air conditioning, a 3.5-inch dot matrix instrument cluster, rear parking sensors, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, and a driver’s airbag.
Moving on to the double cabs, these units are equipped with a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel block with 104kW and 350Nm.
The five-seater version has an eight-speed automatic gearbox, and a choice of a 4×2 or 4×4 configuration – the latter of which comes with a differential lock.
The spec sheet is nearly identical to the single cab; however, the double cab also features side steps, a 9.7-inch infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a rearview camera, and optional leather seats.
In summary, these are the three available models:
- JMC Vigus 2.4l SC 4×2
- JMC Vigus 2.0l DC 4×2
- JMC Vigus 2.0l DC 4×4
The Chinese carmaker also confirmed that the Vigus is sold with a 5-year/100,000km warranty and a 5-year roadside assistance plan.
The double cab units additionally benefit from a 3-year/50,000km service plan, which is an optional extra for the single cab.
JMC Vigus
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