- JMC has started local testing for its upcoming Vigus and Grand Avenue utes.
- The two utes are due to launch in New Zealand early next year.
- JMC has a long history with Ford, although the company has nothing to do with the distribution of JMC products here.
Chinese ute brand JMC has begun testing its vehicles on New Zealand roads ahead of the local launch of two models, the Vigus and Grand Avenue, early next year.
The local testing programme will see both models assessed in a range of Kiwi conditions, with particular attention paid to towing, payload capacity, on- and off-road performance, ride and handling, and general practicality.
JMC's New Zealand distributor, Auto Distribution Holdings, says feedback from the testing programme is being sent to engineers in China, with potential product changes being incorporated ahead of the local launch.
Jiangling Motors Corporation (JMC) is an established Chinese manufacturer with a history dating back to 1968. It also has a longstanding relationship with Ford, which became a strategic investor in the company in 1995 and currently holds a 32 per cent stake. JMC has manufactured Ford-branded vehicles and components for the Chinese and export markets.
"What this means for Kiwis is that we’re introducing a range of models which have been developed working alongside a major international automotive manufacturer and operating within established manufacturing and quality processes," said David Herbert, JMC General Manager for Auto Distribution Holdings.
"These new utes have already been tried and proven in multiple markets around the world, but we’re taking things one step further with a local validation programme, designed to test the new vehicles in our conditions in preparation for the upcoming launch."
The New Zealand range will initially consist of two double-cab utes, both featuring four-wheel drive, an eight-speed automatic transmission and a 2.5-litre turbo-diesel engine. The entry-level Vigus produces 123kW and 430Nm, while the larger Grand Avenue gets a higher-output version of the same engine, producing 155kW and 500Nm.
JMC describes the Vigus as the more work-focused offering, while the Grand Avenue will sit higher in the range, with a more upmarket interior and greater emphasis on lifestyle use. Pricing and final specifications have yet to be confirmed, with details expected closer to the launch.
Alongside vehicle testing, Auto Distribution Holdings is establishing a local accessory supply network, working with companies including Fleetline, Camco, 360 Link, Forged Alloy, YHI, Loadmaster and Maxim. The intention is to have locally sourced accessories available from launch, covering areas such as load carrying, vehicle protection, towing and touring equipment.
"Kiwis have unique requirements when it comes to fitting out and personalising their utes and we want to develop accessories which have our customers and their needs front of mind," said Herbert.
"The involvement of experienced local suppliers will ensure customers can access practical, high-quality solutions for everything from load carrying, vehicle protection, towing as well as touring and work-focused applications right from day one."
A dealer network is also being established, with the initial eight locations planned for Albany, Greenlane, Takanini, Hamilton, Tauranga, Taupo, Wellington and Christchurch.
The arrival of JMC will add another Chinese manufacturer to an increasingly crowded New Zealand ute market, where established offerings from Ford, Toyota, Isuzu and Mitsubishi now face growing competition from newer brands.
"The introduction of Vigus and Grand Avenue will provide New Zealand customers with their first opportunity to assess these JMC utes in the local market," said Herbert.
"The models bring different strengths to the range, but both draw on the company’s longstanding manufacturing experience and global partnerships, practical vehicle capability, modern equipment and its growing international export business.
"People should expect to see JMC test vehicles out and about on our roads throughout the remainder of 2026 as we build towards the launch of this new marque. We can’t wait to launch this exciting new range of innovative, capable and attainable utes and get Kiwi customers behind the wheel."
Potential customers are invited to visit the JMC website and register their interest at JMC New Zealand
