JMC Dadao: Chinese ute spotted at Ford Australia's engineering headquarters – WhichCar

The JMC Dadao ute – also known as the JMC Grand Avenue – was unveiled in March 2023 based on an all-new frame platform with petrol or diesel engines and an electric version set to follow.
“As part of our work as Ford’s engineering, development, and design hub for the region, we regularly evaluate products from other manufacturers, including those not sold in Australia,” said a Ford Australia spokesperson.
Under the bonnet, the petrol Dadao features a version of Ford’s 2.3-litre turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder, which is also fitted to the Ranger, Everest, Mustang, Focus ST and Volkswagen Amarok.
This is due to Ford’s joint venture with JMC – short for Jiangling Motors Corporation – in China, which has led to several co-developed vehicles since the mid-1990s, including the Ford Territory small SUV that bears no connection to the Australian model, apart from borrowing its name.
The 2.3-litre turbo-petrol in the JMC Dadao produces 180Nm and 400Nm – compared to 222kW and 452Nm in the Volkswagen Amarok in Australia. It is matched to a six-speed Getrag MT82 manual – also found in some Ford products – or an eight-speed ZF torque-converter automatic.
A diesel version of the JMC Dadao is also available, featuring a 130kW/450Nm 2.3-litre four-cylinder matched to the same six-speed manual or eight-speed auto as the turbo-petrol model.
Like the modern Dadao, the JMC Vigus also featured a version of Ford’s EcoBoost turbo-petrol motor.
JMC has not announced any plans to return to the Australian new-car market.
Born and raised in rural Victoria, Jordan Hickey was surrounded by a car-loving family before he could even talk. His parents’ automotive workshop fuelled his strong passion for all things four wheels.

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