MIAS 2024: JMC Grand Avenue and Vigus are worthy pickup contenders

Astara Philippines, the authorized distributor of JMC (Jiangling Motors Corporation) vehicles, has launched its truck lineup at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). 

JMC Grand Avenue

Called the Grand Avenue and the Vigus, these two trucks come in differing flavors and are bound to enter the highly contested pickup truck market.

JMC Grand Avenue

The JMC Grand Avenue pegs itself as the ultimate adventure companion, blending comfort with off-road capability. Under its hood lies a potent 2.3-liter turbodiesel engine, churning 174 horsepower and 450 Nm of torque. A Borg Warner 4x4 system manages power, mated to a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

Inside the Grand Avenue

But the Grand Avenue isn't just about raw power; it's also a visual spectacle with its imposing exterior design, highlighted by a commanding grille. Inside, occupants are treated to a well-organized and somewhat upscale cabin adorned with many amenities and tech features.

For in-car entertainment, there’s a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The interior has leather-clad seats, a push-to-start button, and ample USB charging outlets.

Grand Avenue from the rear

Safety isn’t overlooked, with the Grand Avenue boasting a comprehensive suite of safety features, including anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, hill descent control, and more.

JMC Vigus

On the other end of the spectrum lies the JMC Vigus, a no-frills truck tailored for those seeking practicality and reliability. Powered by a robust 2.5-liter turbodiesel engine, the Vigus delivers 128 horsepower and 315 Nm of torque, making it a capable workhorse for various applications.

JMC Vigus

Despite its simplicity, the Vigus commands attention with its rugged exterior design, complemented by striking headlamps that add to its allure.

JMC PH has provided a glimpse into the pricing of these upcoming models, with the Grand Avenue retails between P1,221,000 to P1,569,000, while the Vigus will come in at a more accessible price range of P959,000 to P1,110,000. 

A peek inside the JMC Vigus

JMC Philippines is offering as much as P95,000 in savings as part of an introductory offer.  Customers can avail an additional P10,000 savings when they sign up at the JMC online registration page and an additional P5,000 when they test drive the Grand Avenue at any JMC Philippines dealership located in Alabang, Bacolod, Butuan, and Davao until May 31, 2024.

Both Vigus and Grand Avenue come with 5 5-year/150,000-km warranty and a lifetime engine warranty – a first in the industry.

Our Take

Before their MIAS debut, we had the opportunity to put the Grand Avenue and the Vigus through their paces on a short off-road course. I was particularly impressed at how the Grand Avenue tackled the rather advanced off-road course with relative ease, proving its mettle beyond the imposing aesthetic. On the other hand, the Vigus fits perfectly as a workhorse and fleet vehicle, perfect for those looking for an affordable yet capable truck for daily chores.

The Grand Avenue's 2.3-liter turbodiesel engine

With what we’ve seen and experienced so far, JMC PH has two worthy pickup contenders in their hands.

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