Chinese motor manufacturers are steadily making their presence felt in many international markets, South Africa included. After the introduction of sedan and SUV models made in China, Jiangling Motors Compnay (JMC) has thrown the cat among the pigeons with its Vigus dual-cab.
Well, the tough-looking JMC Vigus is no pussycat and the bakkie market is South Africa is not a gathering of pigeons – it is a hard a space to be in if your pick-up vehicle is not up to scratch.
The Vigus is available with petrol and diesel engines, rear-drive and 4×4 layouts, and in two specifications levels.
The fact that it is a low cost bakkie does not make the JMC Vigus a donkey; it is an admirable workhorse with good looks to boot – for far less than longer existing players in this market.
Petrol models are powered by a Mitsubishi-sourced 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 100kW at 5250rpm and 201Nm between 2500-4000rpm.
The diesel engine is also a 2.4-litre four-cylinder unit, with peak outputs of 90kW at 3800rpm and 290Nm between 1600-1750rpm.
A five-speed manual is the only available transmission. Combined cycle fuel consumption for the petrol is 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in 4×2 form and 12.0L/100km in 4×4, while the diesel uses 9.0L/100km (4×2) and 9.1L/100km (4×4).
Size matters too, as the JMC Vigus comes with 5325mm long, and 1828mm wide and 1710mm tall in 4×2 spec and 1905mm wide and 1835mm tall in 4×4 spec. All variants ride on a 3085mm wheelbase.
The JMC Vigus comes sufficient basic safety equipment, such as ABS, EBD and two front airbags.
The entry-level LX comes standard with 15-inch alloy wheels, front and rear foglights, rear parking sensors, air conditioning and a CD player with USB input.
The SLX trim level adds imitation leather upholstery, a DVD player, multifunction steering wheel and an anti-glare rear-view mirror, while 4×4 variants exclusively feature flared wheel arches and side steps.
Pricing:
Vigus D/C 4X2 LX DIESEL R279 990
Vigus D/C 4X2 SLX DIESEL R309 990
Vigus D/C 4X4 LX DIESEL R345 990
Vigus D/C 4X4 SLX DIESEL R375 990
Vigus D/C 4X2 LX PETROL R249 990
Vigus D/C 4X2 SLX PETROL R279 990
The prices are VAT inclusive and all JMC vehicles are covered by a basic three-year/100,000km warranty, and also come with free roadside assistance and capped-price servicing for three years.
Vigus bulldozes its way into tough bakkie market
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