Reminiscent of the days of the legendary Peugeot 404 and 504, Peugeot’s Landtrek bakkie is a capable and rugged vehicle that has made even die-hard enthusiasts slam on the brakes and pay attention, and one that encompasses all the goods to make every journey an adventure.
Across the sun-kissed heartlands of Africa, where the rolling savannas meet the rugged wilderness and everything in between, there exists a workhorse that has stood the test of time and pulses with the heartbeat of the continent.
The Peugeot 203, 403, 404 and 504 bakkies were more than just simple modes of transport. For decades, Peugeot’s love affair with the African continent became a mainstay in the lives of thousands and stood as a symbol of resilience and adaptability across some of the harshest environments.
They earned a reputation across the continent: from the 404 being the hallmark of economy and durability to the legendary and virtually unstoppable 504 that took gold in the 1984 African Rally Championship, Peugeot’s LCVs of the days gone by captured the hearts of the continent and rightfully earned the moniker of the Lion of Africa.
Fast forward a few decades, Peugeot has undergone a renaissance, leaning on the pedigrees of its ancestors to re-enter the bakkie market. Born from the DNA of its predecessors, the Peugeot Landtrek carries forward the legacy of vehicles that became steadfast companions for thousands along their journeys to greener pastures and boasts a double cab value proposition that has drawn the eyes of enthusiasts.
“Given the ever-changing dynamics in today’s market, it is crucial to strike a balance between fuel efficiency and providing consumers with vehicle solutions to meet their needs and passions. The Landtrek hits the proverbial nail on the head, integrating performance and economy to make for a remarkable proposition for even the most die-hard bakkie enthusiasts,” says Deidre du Plessis, Head of Corporate Communications at Stellantis South Africa, the parent company of Peugeot.
The Landtrek’s impressive 1.9-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine delivers a robust 110kw and 350Nm of torque while maintaining frugality by sipping a mere 8.9l/100km of diesel in the guise of the Allure 4×2, and 9.1l/100km with the 4action 4×4. When combined with its 6-speed automatic transmission, complete with Sequential, Sport, and Eco modes, the Landtrek effortlessly reaches the 120km/h mark and beyond.
“South Africans are increasingly shifting their attention towards outdoor experiences. From off-roading adventures and mountain biking excursions to embarking on extensive cross-country road trips, the Landtrek is purpose-built to handle all scenarios. It also boasts the most spacious loadbed in its segment, capable of accommodating sizeable loads, thanks to its depth of 500mm and width of 1.22m between the wheel arches, making it large enough to carry a standard wooden pallet,” explains du Plessis.
It is as capable on the road as it is off, and not just in its 4×4 attire owing to its ground clearance of 235mm and wading depth of 600mm. The 4×2 offers optimised traction due to its low ratio transfer box and a mechanical rear differential lock, and can traverse relatively adverse terrain, courtesy of its high rise and multi-grip tyres.
The Landtrek’s optimised architecture offers all the attributes of an off-roader, with reduced overhangs that favour approach and departure angles, such as a side slope angle of up to 42° in the case of the 4×4 variant.
“Technology is at the fore in the Landtrek, with the 10-inch multimedia screen enhanced by the integration of one to four cameras. These greatly assist in navigating urban environments as well as off-road situations effortlessly. In the 4action 4×4 version, the off-road camera with 360° vision provides drivers with a clear line of sight to conquer obstacles and tight spaces, and can be set to activate automatically when obstacles are detected,” says du Plessis.
Peugeot’s commitment to crafting vehicles that resonate with South Africans and investing in the country is evident, particularly as Stellantis South Africa recently announced its intention to invest R3 billion to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Coega, in the Eastern Cape, with the 1-ton bakkie being earmarked for local manufacture in 2026. In doing so, Stellantis aims to support the employment of over 1,000 people – exemplifying its commitment to sustainability and care.
“The Peugeot Landtrek is a prime representation of a connection between the past and the present. It bridges the heritage of Peugeot’s legendary off-road vehicles with modern innovations and offers a clear vision of the adventures that lie ahead in the unchartered territories of South Africa. It’s not just merely a vehicle – it’s a symbol of the endless possibilities in the pursuit of new horizons,” concludes du Plessis.
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