In South Africa, the double-cab bakkie is king. Their towering profiles dominate local roads, consumers obsessed with the raised ride height and go-anywhere ability. While many brands have entered the hotly-contested marketplace, its the stalwarts that remain the most popular. Ford's Ranger, Toyota's Hilux and VW's Amarok remain the favourites.
Many have tried to enter the segment, only to retract. The Mercedes-Benz X-Class comes to mind here, the brand hoping to create a luxury bakkie segment. A name that many don't associate with bakkies, Peugeot, is the latest to join the ever-popular vehicle class.
While you may be curious to see the French brand enter into the fray, the company actually has a rich and long history of producing stout, sturdy and reliable bakkies that can take on the toughest Africa has to offer.
The Landtrek, currently available as a turbodiesel with either 4x2 or 4x4, kicks off at R579 900. This price is for the Allure 4x2, while buyers wanting four-wheel drive will have to opt for the 4Action 4x4, at R669 900.
Currently, just one engine is available. As mentioned above, it's a turbodiesel 1.9-litre with 110 kW and 350 Nm of torque. Both models are fitted with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Spec wise, both are luxuriously equipped, with the pricier 4Action receiving a few choice extras. Both models receive six airbags, ABS brakes, stability and traction control as well as ISOFIX child seat anchorages. While the Allure makes do with air-conditioning, the 4Action receives climate control and lane-keep assist. A reverse camera (with surround view) is also standard on the more premium model.
All Landtrek's receive rear park distance control (4Action gets it in the front, too), LED headlamps and rain-sensing wipers. Classy cloth-trimmed seats make the Allure a comfortable place to be, with those preferring the plushness of leather will opt for the 4Action.
Even though it's a bakkie, Peugeot has bestowed its unique interior flourishes on the Landtrek's cabin. The signature jet-fighter style buttons are present, while a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The Peugeot has a practical side, too. The rear seats are able to fold in a 60/40 split or by 100%, according to the French brand. This allows drivers to transport things without scuffing or damaging the upholstery. What's more, the bench can fold up, allowing the transportation of taller objects within the cabin.
For going off the beaten track, the Landtrek boasts 235 mm of ground clearance, in either two- or four-wheel drive configurations.
4x4 derivatives boast a rear differential equipped with a mechanical rear diff-lock, which provides extra traction when a wheel loses grip. Switching between 2-high, 4-high and 4-low modes is done via a rotary switch. But it's the off-road capabilities which impress most. The Landtrek can ford up to 600 mm, and boasts impressive approach, departure and break-over angles:
approach angle: 29° or 30° (depending on version).
departure angle: 27° or 26° (depending on version).
break-over angle: 25°.
All Landtrek models receive a five-year/100 000 km warranty and service plan. Intervals are pegged at 10 000 km.
