Chinese brand JMC plans to launch the new Grand Avenue bakkie in South Africa this year, with an off-road version set to follow in 2027. Here’s what to expect…
- Grand Avenue to arrive later in 2026
- 2.5TD to deliver 155 kW and 500 Nm
- Off-road-ready “Pro” tipped for 2027
Late in 2025, Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) officially returned to South Africa, kicking off its local operations with the JMC Vigus Pro workhorse bakkie and the Carrying Plus truck, before adding the new Vigus double cab in March 2026. And the Grand Avenue is next for the Chinese brand.
Yes, the new JMC Grand Avenue bakkie is scheduled to launch locally at some point in 2026. Set to be available exclusively in double-cab form, the Grand Avenue measures 5 450 mm from nose to tail and has a wheelbase of 3 270 mm. That makes it 115 mm longer than the new Vigus double cab and 100 mm longer than a Ford Ranger double cab.
While JMC offers the ladder-frame Grand Avenue in its domestic market of China with either a 2.3-litre turbopetrol engine or a turbodiesel unit featuring the same displacement, a different powertrain has been locked in for South Africa.
According to JMC – which is distributed locally by Salvador Caetano Auto SA (the company that’s also responsible for GAC Motor in Mzansi) – the Grand Avenue coming to Mzansi later this year will instead employ a version of the 2.5-litre turbodiesel engine used in the new Vigus double cab.
As a reminder, in the Vigus, this oil-burning engine makes 123 kW and 430 Nm. However, in Grand Avenue tune, the 4-pot is set to deliver beefier peak outputs of 155 kW and 500 Nm, while also facilitating a 3 500 kg braked towing capacity. We’re guessing the same 8-speed automatic transmission will ship standard (though a 6-speed manual gearbox could theoretically also be offered).
JMC South Africa has furthermore confirmed the flagship Grand Avenue Pro is scheduled to launch locally in 2027. Based on the related Dadao-badged version offered in China, this range-topping (Ranger Raptor-mimicking) derivative will be set apart by a raft of off-road upgrades, from a multi-link rear suspension set-up and uprated shocks to all-terrain tyres and a loftier ground clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About JMC’s South African Bakkie Line-up
Q: What are the current bakkie options available from JMC in South Africa?
A: JMC officially returned to Mzansi with the Vigus range. The lineup includes the workhorse-focused Vigus Single Cab (priced from R299 900) and a trio of new Vigus Double Cab derivatives. These 2.5TD models are currently some of the most affordable double cabs in the country, with the entry-level 4×2 manual starting at R399 900 and the flagship 4×4 automatic topping out at R499 900.
Q: How does JMC’s warranty and service support compare to established brands?
A: To compete with traditional players, JMC offers a standard 5-year/200 000 km warranty on its new Vigus models, a significant coverage period in this segment. This is complemented by a 4-year/65 000 km service plan, aiming to provide peace of mind for buyers concerned about the long-term running costs of a newly reintroduced brand.
Q: What mechanical upgrades will the Grand Avenue Pro feature to justify its “off-road” status?
A: Scheduled for a 2027 local launch, the Grand Avenue Pro will be significantly more rugged than the standard Grand Avenue (which will arrive first). It will swap the traditional rear leaf springs for a multi-link suspension setup and feature uprated shock absorbers, all-terrain tyres and a higher ground clearance to better handle technical off-road terrain.
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