JMC Grand Avenue

Inside, the JMC Grand Avenue’s interior might not look the liveliest nor the sportiest in its segment, but it still offers that premium minimalist feel. To compensate for its limited payload capacity, its cabin boasts impressive spaciousness for five passengers. On top of this, its leather seats are also plush and very supportive even on long-distance trips. 

Upfront, you are greeted by a 10-inch multi-touchscreen infotainment display that has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, AM/FM radio, and is linked to a 4-speaker sound system. Meanwhile, drivers have access to a premium-looking cockpit, which consists of a 3.5-inch TFT multi-information instrument display, a 2-way adjustable multifunctional steering wheel, and paddle shifters (exclusive for AT variants). Owners of the automatic variants get an electrical park brake with auto hold, while drivers of the manual trims get the mechanical version.

For more functionality and convenience, this pickup truck comes with front and rear 12V power ports, a front USB charging point, an air-conditioning system with pollen and PM2.5 filtration, as well as rear air-conditioning vents for the automatic variants. 

The JMC Grand Avenue looks macho and elegant at the same time. It flaunts a very robust-looking facade, accentuated by an imposing two-toned grille and a huge ‘JMC’ lettering displayed as its centerpiece. The higher automatic trims feature rectangular auto-sensing headlamps, while the lower manual trims get the regular version. Standard to all variants are LED DRLs and front fog lamps for more visibility, especially at night. Additionally, for a more premium touch, the higher automatic trims also get rain-sensing wipers. 

On the sides, this pickup truck has a rugged silhouette enhanced by well-proportioned curves and blacked-out finishes. All variants feature LED turning lights, which are integrated into their side mirrors. However, only the higher automatic trims get side steps as a standard–allowing passengers to enter and exit the vehicle more easily. All variants run on 17-inch alloy wheels. 

Aside from these, its robust personality carries over to its rear. This pickup truck comes with rectangular taillights, rear fog lamps, and a high-mounted stop lamp. It has an easy lift tailgate for easier loading and unloading of cargo. The higher automatic trims also get a wear-resistant adhesive layer on their cargo bed. In addition, all variants except for the base 4x2 MT model come with rear recovery hooks.

The JMC Grand Avenue model line measures 5,450 mm in length, 1,935 mm in width, and 1,872 mm in height. This pickup truck has a 3,270-mm wheelbase and a 200-mm ground clearance. It offers an 870-kg payload capacity, which is a bit limited for its huge frame.

In terms of suspension, the JMC Grand Avenue utilizes a Double Wishbone with Coil Spring at the front and a Leaf Spring at the rear. Unlike other mid-size pickup trucks in the market, the Grand Avenue struggles a bit off-road. It can still take on light to moderate trails. But, anything beyond that will show its limitations. That said, the Grand Avenue thrives on smooth straight lines. It delivers a comfortable riding experience on free-flowing highways and/or smooth city pavements.

The JMC Grand Avenue model line is powered by a 2.3L turbocharged diesel engine (JX4D23 PUMA) that delivers a maximum power output of 177 PS and a different torque output depending on the transmission. The PUMA engine of the automatic variants produces 450 Nm of torque, while the manual variants’ produce 400 Nm. The higher manual and automatic trims utilize a time-sharing four-wheel drivetrain with a center differential lock

On the highway, this pickup truck is capable of performing high-speed overtakes. Its transmission system, particularly the ZF eight-speed AT, is smooth and responsive. In the city, its fuel consumption is just right for its size. Overall, you have a good amount of power and torque on tap when you are running out on the open road or taking on steep roads out of town.

In terms of safety, the JMC Grand Avenue comes with four advanced features, namely, cruise control, collision auto-unlock, automatic door return, and post-collision brake (for AT variants only). It also comes with a long list of active and passive safety features. 

This pickup truck is equipped with four-wheel disc brakes. Its disc brakes are supported by an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, traction control system, hill launch assist, hill descent control, and a brake assist among others. 

In my opinion, the JMC Grand Avenue has a good potential to achieve a more competitive position in the local market if the brand addresses its current flaws and shortcomings moving forward. Currently, it offers a good mix of practicality, functionality, and performance for consumers who are looking for an affordable mid-size pickup truck.