Jiangling Motors Company South Africa recently launched its latest double cab, the Vigus 5.
The Vigus 5 follows in the footsteps of the Vigus 4, which we had the opportunity to drive a few years ago. We experienced it as a cheap, honest bakkie, albeit a bit rough around the edges.
It rides on a ladder frame chassis, equipped with a double wishbones with coil spring front suspension and a solid rear axle suspended on leaf springs complements. It features disc brakes all round, as well as ABS and EBD. It can also carry a load of up to 815kg.
Key numbers are a 5.38 metre overall length and a wheelbase of just under 3.1 metres. The load bin is 1.475 metre square, with a 500mm depth. All versions are shod with 265/70 rubber on 16-inch alloys, 4×4 versions identified by side steps.
The Vigus 5 is powered by a Ford-sourced 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine, claimed to deliver 103kW and 310Nm of torque. A five-speed manual is the only gearbox available.
The 4×4 model is equipped with a part-time four-wheel drive system, including low range.
The Vigus 5 is only available in LX trim, which includes leather seats, adjustable steering column, touchscreen infotainment system, rear park distance control, a multifunction steering wheel and cruise control. Passengers too benefit from the likes of standard air conditioning, electric windows and central locking, Bluetooth, dual 12 Volt outlets along with Aux and USB ports.
The Vigus 5 comes as standard with a three year/100 000 km warranty and a six-year or 60 000 km service plan.
The 4×2 retails for R308 000, while the 4×4 costs R365 000.