While pick-up trucks are popular in many markets, they have never appealed to consumers in the European markets. Their size has been one reason, given the narrow roads and tight parking spaces in many cities. For farm use, tractors would be preferred and if it comes to carrying goods, they have small vans that are more practical.
For this reason, Peugeot has never really given much attention to making pick-up trucks although it did produce one as far back as 1938. There were also a few other models over the years and one based on the 504 was quite popular – in Africa. In fact, to satisfy demand by its overseas distributors (mainly in Africa), it has provided ‘badge-engineered’ pick-up trucks, one of them being based on a model made by Dongfeng.
More recently, the French carmaker co-developed a truck with Changan, another Chinese manufacturer. Changan calls its version the Kaicene F70 while Peugeot calls it the Landtrek, and it is sold in some markets in South America and Africa. It is also now available in Malaysia, which is the first market in the Asia-Pacific region to well the Landtrek.
It is imported by Bermaz Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd (BAASB), the sole distributor for the PEUGEOT brand in Malaysia and priced from RM120,072 (without insurance). Only a double cab bodystryle is available, with a 1.9-litre 4-cylinder diesel engine incorporating a variable geometry turbocharger.
The output of 150 bhp/350 Nm goes to all 4 wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission transfer case, like other trucks. Selection of the High and Low ranges as well as 4×2 or 4×4 is done using a rotary dial, the short shift lever having been consigned to history. A rear differential lock is also provided to better control in very muddy conditions.
Though sharing the architecture with Changan’s model, the Landtrek is extensive differentiated with all the latest Peugeot styling elements. These include signature brand features like the vertical grille with the Peugeot Lion in the centre and distinctive LED lighting on both the front and rear.
The 18-inch alloy rims with a diamond-cut finish were also specially for the model and fitted with 265/60 tyres.
With an overall length of 5331 mm and width of 1925 mm, the Landtrek is about the same length as the Toyota Hilux though it has a bit more width. Interestingly, the Landtrek’s wheelbase is longer by 95 mm which benefits the cargo box.
Of course, it is inside the cabin that there is a strong sense of the European flavour is associated with the French brand. While there are limitations when sharing a model, Peugeot’s interior designers have still managed to provide a stylish and comfortable space within.
As with virtually all modern trucks that are more lifestyle-oriented, the look and feel of the cabin is like a passenger car’s, with all the conveniences present. Large front seats provide comfort on long journeys while the wide body allows up to 1550 mm of shoulder room for the passengers behind. To assist getting in an out, there are 7 grab handles within easy reach and also side steps.
Special attention has also been paid to the rear seating and the backrest can be tilted 23 degrees to provide greater comfort. The two backrests can also be folded, together or separately in a 60:40 ratio, to create a flat load area. When folded down, the backrests can support a load of up to 100 kgs.
In keeping with other Peugeot models, there’s a large 10-inch HD touchscreen for the infotainment system which can also accept favourite apps like Waze and Spotify using Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. Piano-style toggle switches operate various functions of the vehicle, while there is automatic air-conditioning to maintain a consistently cool environment around the cabin.
With trucks being driven more on highways than off-road, active safety is even more important. The Landtrek therefore has similar active safety systems as a passenger car as well as some systems like Hill Assist Descent Control which are useful for off-road driving. Trucks can be tricky to park but there is a 360˚ panoramic view display using cameras around the vehicle so the driver can see better when manoeuvring.
“Stellantis {the group which Peugeot is part of] has doubled its sales volume in the ASEAN region in the past 2 years with significant contributions from our importer partners including Bermaz Auto. In 2023, we aim for continued growth in the region through localization efforts and higher sales with our activity, driven by the Dare Forward 2030 strategic business plan. We are confident that the Peugeot Landtrek will be a success in Malaysia and with people who love trucks,” said Daniel Gonzalez, the newly appointed COO for Stellantis’ ASEAN & General Distributors.
