JMC previews Grand Avenue and Vigus pickups
Debuting in MIAS
JMC is back and is no keen to enter the highly competitive pickup segment. To give us a peak of what they’ve got in store, Astara Philippines, distributor of JMC in the Philippines recently invited us to The Generals Farm in Batangas to get behind the wheel of their pickups.
The two vehicles are the Grand Avenue 4x4 and the 4x2 Vigus. There were two courses, a challenging 4x4 off road course for the Grand Avenue and a dirt road course for the 4x2 Vigus.
The Grand Avenue
JMC’S flagship offering, the Grand Avenue is a good looking pickup. It has a distinct front end with an attentiongetting grille. Behind that is a fifth generation turbocharged Puma 2.3-liter diesel engine that puts out 177-Ps with 450-Nm of torque mated to an eight-speed automatic with select shift transmission. It’s also equipped with a Borg Warner 4-wheel drive system.
This pickup boasts the tallest ground clearance in its class and longest wheelbase. It has a spacious cabin and a cargo volume of 1.35 cubic meters. It’s equipped with a suite of Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) which includes Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC/ESP), Brake Assist (BA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Reverse Camera, Parking Sensors, among others.
Its interior offers high-end amenities, including keyless entry, leather seats, a 10” touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
With more information soon to be available upon launch at the Manila International Auto Show, we were told that the Grand Avenue would be priced between ₱1.221M and ₱1.569M and available in colors including Cosmic Grey, Pearl White, Silver Sand Black, Sandy Brown, and Shining Silver.
Vigus
JMC’S business/commercial pickup, is the Vigus. Powered by a turbocharged 2.5L diesel engine that puts out 130-Ps with 315-Nm of torque. It sports sleek lines, a large body and long wheelbase. It boasts practicality and style. It’s priced at under P1.0M to P1.11M and available in Elegant White, ideal for individuals and businesses who need a versatile workhorse that offers good value.
Both vehicles performed as well as expected on their assigned courses, with the Grand Avenue easily tackling the off road course without much fuss and the Vigus showing that a work horse can be comfortable on farm dirt roads.
JMC Philippines teased that these two pickups will be offered with a firstever Lifetime Engine Warranty, setting the bar high and confidence in their vehicle’s reliability.
“JMC’S experiential drive in Batangas is more than just a test drive with our partners. It is a testament to our pursuit of elevating the driving and ownership experience as we officially unveil these game-changing pickups. The Grand
Avenue and Vigus exemplify the JMC difference, exceeding expectations with their high-end features and performance on the road. We are driven and excited to launch our newest flagship, the Grand Avenue as the biggest pickup in its class packed with the latest tech. Boasting an extended 3,270mm wheelbase, its spacious cargo, lush cabin, and advanced driver-assistance systems ensure versatility, comfort, and safety in every drive. Gearing up for JMC’S official launch in the Philippines, we are thrilled to explore greater paths with our new customers,” shared Arlan Reyes, JMC Brand Head, Astara Philippines.
Both of these pick ups will be on display at this years Manila International Auto Show.