When Peugeot first announced its return to the bakkie market, many South Africans raised an eyebrow. Could a French manufacturer with little recent legacy in this fiercely contested segment produce something that could stand up against the established names? The Landtrek is Peugeot’s answer, pitched as a dual-purpose machine designed to strike a balance between everyday comfort and genuine off-road capability.
Last month, I again had the opportunity to put our long-term Peugeot Landtrek 4Action 1.9T 110 kW 6AT 4×4’s claims to the test outside of the urban environment, where its capability is confirmed. I had a birthday celebration to attend at a private game lodge in the North West Province, which meant a mix of highways and dirt roads. It was the perfect chance to see how this bakkie adapts to different conditions.
On the open road, the Landtrek settled into its stride. Its 1.9-litre turbodiesel, producing 110 kW and 350 Nm, is not the strongest in its class, but is more than adequate for relaxed cruising. The six-speed automatic shifts smoothly and keeps the engine in its torque band without too much fuss. Wind and road noise are impressively well contained, giving the cabin a quiet, composed feel that few bakkies in this price bracket can match.
The suspension also deserves mention. Tuned more for urban and tarred-road comfort than for rugged overlanding, it makes long-distance driving a pleasure. Seating comfort is another strength. The seats are well bolstered without being firm, and after two hours behind the wheel, I arrived without the usual stiffness associated with ladder-frame vehicles.
LEAVING THE TAR
The real test began when I left the highway and turned onto corrugated dirt roads leading to the lodge. At moderate speeds, the Landtrek retained its calm, but push it harder and its quirks become clear. The suspension, which had impressed so much on tar, didn’t keep things as composed over rutted surfaces. The steering also lost some of its accuracy, feeding back a jittery sensation that didn’t inspire much confidence if you tried to cover ground too quickly.
That said, ease off the throttle and the Landtrek’s character settles again. On smoother dirt, the refinement returns, and you’re reminded of why this bakkie feels so comfortable in day-to-day driving. It’s not that the Landtrek isn’t capable off-road, because Peugeot has equipped it with genuine 4×4 hardware, including a low-range transfer case, selectable drive modes, and a locking rear differential. The ground clearance of 235 mm and a wading depth of 600 mm give it the right numbers, and off-road, it copes with most obstacles without drama. But the suspension setup makes it clear that this is a vehicle aimed more at lifestyle buyers than hardcore adventurers.
PRACTICAL STRENGTHS
One of the Landtrek’s strongest suits is its practicality. The load bed is among the largest in its class, both wide and deep, and offers a useful 1,050 kg payload and a 3,000 kg towing capacity. The tailgate is assisted, making it easier to operate, and Peugeot has added thoughtful touches, such as a 12V socket in the load bin. For those who split their bakkie use between work and leisure, it is a compelling package.
Inside, Peugeot has taken a page from its passenger cars, and it shows. The dashboard layout is modern, the 10” infotainment screen is sharp and responsive, and smartphone integration is standard. Material quality and design feel a notch above what you’d expect at this price, and it’s fair to say that few rivals can match the Landtrek’s cabin for perceived quality.
If there’s one area where the Landtrek earns universal praise, it’s design. I have yet to meet someone who doesn’t consider it one of the best-looking bakkies on the market. My weekend trip confirmed it again: everywhere I parked, people wanted to know more. Comments like “this must be the best-looking bakkie around” were voiced more than once. Peugeot has managed to combine proportions and detailing in a way that sets it apart from the more utilitarian designs in the segment.
RIVALS IN THE MIX
Where the Landtrek faces its biggest test is against rivals that South African buyers already know well. The GWM P-Series has made inroads with a similar formula of generous specs at an accessible price, while the Mitsubishi Triton appeals with a long-standing reputation for reliability and a proven 2.4-litre diesel engine. Both offer stronger engine outputs than the Landtrek, but Peugeot counters with a more premium interior feel and arguably fresher styling. It’s also priced to compete directly with these alternatives, positioning it as an interesting option for buyers who want something different from the usual Toyota Hilux or Ford Ranger duo.
LAST WORD
The Peugeot Landtrek 4Action 1.9T 4×4 makes a strong case for itself as a dual-purpose bakkie. It offers everyday refinement, a genuinely premium cabin, and practical load-carrying ability. Off-road, it is capable, but its suspension tuning means it feels more comfortable at a steady pace than when pushed hard over rough ground. For buyers who prioritise cabin comfort, design appeal, and versatility for weekend trips rather than heavy-duty work or extreme trails, the Landtrek delivers a package that stands apart in a crowded segment.
Report & images © BERNIE HELLBERG JR
