Peugeot bakkie for SA

OOH LA LA: FRENCH CHIC PICKUP TO REACH LOCAL SHORES NEXT YEAR

Derived from Chinese model, range will be available in single or double cab.

The topic of much speculation since reports of it came to light some three years ago, Peugeot has officially revealed its new global pickup in the shape of the Landtrek.

Touted by the Lion brand as a pickup that “responds to the needs of a demanding clientele”, the Landtrek is derived from the Changan Kaicheng F70 sold in China. It will be offered in not only single and double cab bodystyles, but also as a chassis cab with Peugeot claiming a payload of up to 1.2 tons depending on the model, a tow rating of 3.5 tons and on workhorse derivatives, a 180° opening tailgate as a result of there being no rear bumper.

Measuring 5.33m in overall length for the double cab and 5.39m for the single cab, the Landtrek boasts a width of 1.92m and has been subjected to more than two million kilometres of testing “in all terrains and in all weather” with Peugeot further remarking that it offers the “comfort worthy of a saloon car”.

Able to transport three Euro palettes or two in the case of the double cab, the Landtrek takes styling inspiration from the 3008 and 5008 outwardly with the interior offering up to three seats depending on the model, with cabin storage space coming to 27 litres and a load of 100kg possible with the rear seats folded.

While equipment will depend on the trim level, items featuring will include a freestanding 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, hill descent control, dual zone climate control, lane departure warning, trailer swing control and up to four cameras for a 360° view.

Available with rear or selectable four-wheel drive with ground clearance rising from 216mm on the standard 16-inch wheels to 235mm with the 17-inch rollers, the Landtrek is powered by a choice of two engines – a 2.4 litre turbocharged petrol delivering 155kW/320Nm and a 1.9 litre turbodiesel that produces 110kW/350Nm.

Whereas the petrol comes paired to a a six-speed manual or a Getrag-supplied six-speed automatic, the oil-burner is outfitted with the former only and claimed to consume diesel at 7.8l/100km. Reserved for the automatic petrol model, though, is a two-mode selector with Eco and Sport settings, although standard regardless of the drivetrain is an electronic rear differential lock. Wading depth is rated at 600mm.

Aimed at Latin American as well as sub-Saharan African markets, with Europe having been ruled out completely, the Landtrek will go on sale later this year and has been confirmed for South Africa with sales to commence next year.

Subjected to more than two million km of testing