The new JMC Vigus double-cab bakkie has arrived in South Africa, powered by a 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine and priced from just under R400 000…
- New Vigus DC revealed for Mzansi
- Ties for title of SA’s cheapest DC
- 3 derivatives available from launch
- 2.5 TD makes 123 kW and 430 Nm
Jiangling Motors Corporation – or “JMC” for short – officially returned to South Africa late in 2025 with the JMC Vigus workhorse bakkie and the Carrying Plus truck. But the automaker has already rolled out a new version of the Vigus double cab, launching a model that’s badged as the “Baodian” in its domestic market of China.
The new Vigus double-cab portfolio comprises a trio of derivatives at launch, each powered by a 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine generating 123 kW (at 3 400 rpm) and 430 Nm (from 1 600 to 2 200 rpm). These peak outputs are delivered via either a 6-speed manual gearbox or an 8-speed automatic transmission. The range-topper features a BorgWarner 4WD system with a low-range transfer case.
The Chinese brand – which is distributed locally by Salvador Caetano Auto SA (the company that’s also responsible for GAC Motor in Mzansi) – has confirmed the Vigus 2.5TD DC 4×2 6MT will be priced at R399 900, while the Vigus 2.5TD DC 4×2 8AT will come in at R459 900 and the flagship Vigus 2.5TD DC 4×4 8AT at R499 900.
That base price of R399 900 sees the new Vigus tie for the title of South Africa’s most affordable double-cab bakkie, sharing the tag with fellow Chinese contenders the Foton Tunland G7 2.0TD TL 4×2 6MT (R399 900) and the JAC T8 2.0CTI Lux 4×2 6MT (R399 900).
The new ladder-frame bakkie measures 5 335 mm long, which makes it around 15 mm shorter than a Ford Ranger double cab. Though official specification details for the local market are still thin on the ground, we do know you’ll find a 9.0-inch instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch touchscreen inside, along with a reverse-view camera (complemented by parking sensors).
Claimed payload and towing-capacity figures have yet to be confirmed for the local market. It’s likewise not yet clear whether the older Vigus double-cab derivatives launched late last year (each powered by a 104 kW/350 Nm 2.0-litre oil-burner and priced close to these new entrants) will soldier on or fall away.
What does the new JMC Vigus cost in South Africa?
| DERIVATIVE | PRICE |
| JMC Vigus 2.5TD DC 4×2 6MT | R399 900 |
| JMC Vigus 2.5TD DC 4×2 8AT | R459 900 |
| JMC Vigus 2.5TD DC 4×4 8AT | R499 900 |
The prices above include a 5-year/200 000 km warranty and a 4-year/65 000 km service plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the New JMC Vigus Double Cab
Q: What engine and transmission options are available in the new JMC Vigus?
A: The new Vigus range is powered by a 2.5-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces 123 kW and 430 Nm. Buyers can choose between a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The flagship 4×4 model also features a BorgWarner four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer case for off-road use.
Q: How does the size of the JMC Vigus compare to established bakkies like the Ford Ranger?
A: The Vigus is a full-sized contender in the double-cab segment. Measuring 5 335 mm in length, it is only about 15 mm shorter than a Ford Ranger. This translates to a substantial road presence and a cabin that comfortably accommodates five passengers, while still offering a practical load bed for work or leisure gear.
Q: What standard warranty and service support does JMC offer in South Africa?
A: To provide peace of mind for local buyers, JMC includes a comprehensive 5-year/200 000 km warranty as standard. Additionally, the purchase price includes a 4-year/65 000 km service plan, which is significant in the budget-bakkie segment where such plans are often sold as optional extras.
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