JMC Vigus Pro 2023 Review

In recent years, Malaysia's pickup truck market has been heating up, with consumers no longer satisfied with mere utility but seeking vehicles that balance family use and practicality. The JMC Vigus Pro White Series 2.0L 4WD 8AT targets this niche market by offering features such as a four-wheel-drive system and an 8-inch touchscreen at a price below RM100,000. The main goal of our test drive was to verify whether it can balance daily commuting and light off-road needs.

In terms of appearance, this vehicle leans towards a robust and practical style. The front face features a large grille paired with silver skid plate decorations, offering decent recognition; the body lines are straight, with a wheelbase of 3,085mm ensuring cargo and passenger space; the rear design is simple, with square tail light shapes and a rear bumper equipped with parking radar sensors. The lighting system includes halogen headlights, daytime running lights, and front and rear fog lamps, with an automatic headlight function that switches on in tunnels or cloudy weather, providing convenience in daily use.

Sitting inside, the interior uses predominantly dark-colored plastic with a fairly standard tactile feel. The center console has a clear layout, with an 8-inch touchscreen in the center that supports basic multimedia functions. The multifunction steering wheel includes volume adjustment and paddle shifters, making it easy to operate. The seats are manually adjustable, with the front seats offering moderate support suitable for daily use, though the fixed rear seatbacks may result in discomfort during long journeys. Storage options include door panels and a central armrest box that can accommodate items like phones and bottles. The front row is equipped with a manual single-zone air conditioner, meeting basic needs.

The space performance is consistent with a pickup's design, with a 3,085mm wheelbase ensuring adequate rear legroom, and a width of 1,905mm ensuring that three people do not feel cramped. The cargo bed size is not explicitly listed, but the minimum ground clearance of 225mm and full-size spare tire make it suitable for carrying tools or outdoor gear. ISO FIX anchors and front and rear radar sensors, along with a reversing camera, are family-friendly features.

The powertrain is equipped with a 2.0T diesel engine delivering a maximum power output of 141PS and peak torque at 2,600rpm. During daily driving, the initial acceleration feels slightly sluggish, but power delivery becomes smooth once the turbo kicks in. The 8AT gearbox offers a clear shifting logic, with responsive downshifts during overtaking. When switched to four-wheel-drive mode, the vehicle performs steadily on muddy roads or light off-road terrain, and the hill-start assist function prevents rolling back on steep slopes.

In terms of handling, the steering wheel offers moderate resistance with minimal play. The front double-wishbone independent suspension paired with rear leaf springs provides adequate shock absorption over speed bumps or bumpy roads, though rear-seat vibrations are more apparent. The front seat offers better dampening. At high speeds, the vehicle feels stable, with body roll in corners kept within normal pickup truck limits. Fuel efficiency is rated officially at 7.8L/100km, with actual urban driving around 9L, and highway conditions reducing it to around 7.5L, reflecting the economic benefits of a diesel engine.

Noise control is average, with noticeable wind and tire noise at high speeds. Seat comfort is moderate, and prolonged driving may lead to lower back fatigue. With no energy recovery (diesel vehicle), braking performance is linear, with braking distances meeting segment standards.

Overall, the core advantage of the Vigus Pro White Series lies in its pricing, offering features like four-wheel-drive, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers within RM100,000. Compared to entry-level competitors such as the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, it stands out for its value for money. It is suitable for budget-conscious users who need a vehicle for both goods transportation and light off-roading, such as small business owners or outdoor enthusiasts.

Although this car has room for improvement in terms of interior quality and comfort, its practicality and off-road capabilities are sufficient to meet the needs of the target audience at a price point of RM 100,000. If you need a durable, versatile pickup truck for both work and family use, the Vigus Pro White Series is worth considering.