By Staff Reporter

Just like SUVs, bakkies are taking over and every player wants a slice of the ever-growing pie. The segment actually contributes more than 2.4 million units to global vehicle annual sales so it only makes sense for Peugeot to throw its hat into the ring. In fact, Peugeot is no stranger to the game with a history of successful workhorses that include the legendary 404 and 504 of yesteryear. Dabbling in this space with the all new Landtrek bakkie should not come as a big surprise for the big French marquee.

Outside

The design of the Landtrek comes from the collaboration between Europe, Japan and USA to ensure that the best international standards are met. Peugeot claims to have been testing the Landtrek for 2million km on all terrains and weather to ensure that it’s durable, functional and suited for outdoor leisure. The rugged look is perhaps evident in the somewhat boxy look. Things are not all square with a front that adorns a vertical grille that features the renowned Peugeot Lion emblem in the centre and the vertical LED headlights on each side below the headlamps. Higher models have a bumper that comes in the body shape and a sliver grey front skid plate. That’s not all, the bumper incorporates a housing for spot lamps. All in all, the new Peugeot Landtrek bakkie appears attractive.

Inside

The consumer will have an choice of either a two-seater independent seats with central armrest or a three-seater Multiflex bench seat. Peugeot claims that the Landtrek can ferry up to six passenger (depending on the version) while leaving the pickup with sufficient space and room. There’s alos a possibilty of folding the backrest 60/40 of fully. On the connection and technology front, the Landtrek is decked out with similar specs as the 3008, that includes 10-inch HD infotainment with USB and Bluethooth connectivity.  It is also compitable with Apple CarPlay and Andriod Auto.

Practicality

The designers have also ensured that the pickup meets the dimensions of the segment. Length measures at 5.33m for the double cab and 5.39m for the single cab, while the width for both versions is at 1.92m. The Landtrek offers a payload of up to 1.2 tons and a towing capacity of 3 tons. Loading will be made easier during the loadshedding with the addition of LEDs that will illuminate the payload. On the safety froint, the Landtrek offers Lane Departure, Hill Descent Cotrol and Trailer Swing Contro, just to name a few.

Engine

The Landtrek will be powered by either a diesel or petrol engine. The diesel will have a 1.9L engine with 112kW and 350Nm, while the petrol will be powered by an 2.4L engine with outputs of 155kW and 320Nm. Both with will be paired to a six-speed manual transmission, the pertol will get an option of an six-speed transmission.

Peugeot says that the bakkie could be coming to South Africa in 2021!