Peugeot has pulled the wraps off its refreshed Peugeot Landtrek bakkie, a mid-life update designed to strengthen its presence in the competitive light commercial vehicle segment. Having re-entered the bakkie market four years ago, this overhaul introduces modernized aesthetics, enhanced interior features, and a new, more powerful turbodiesel engine. These changes aim to broaden its appeal among buyers in key markets, including South Africa, where local assembly is slated to begin in 2026.
Refreshed Exterior Design
The updated Landtrek retains its foundation as a derivative of the Kaicene F70—recently renamed the Changan F70—while boasting a host of design revisions. Its front and rear bumpers have been redesigned, accompanied by claw-inspired LED daytime running lights that add a signature flair. The grille now features Peugeot’s latest Lion corporate emblem, surrounded by gloss black fog light housings for a touch of sophistication.
The rear has also been refreshed, with the Lion logo on the tailgate replaced by a bold “Peugeot” script. This new branding sits above a 3D “Landtrek” badge that has been relocated from the bottom left to the center, providing a more streamlined and distinctive appearance.
Despite these updates, the Landtrek’s dimensions remain unchanged, retaining its practical design for work and adventure. Ground clearance ranges between 214 mm and 235 mm depending on wheel size, while the bakkie maintains its impressive off-road credentials with a 600 mm wading depth and favorable approach (25°), breakover (29°), and departure (27°) angles.
Payload capacity remains a strong point, with the double cab able to accommodate two Euro pallets and the single cab three. Towing capacity, however, has been improved, increasing to 3,500 kg thanks to the new diesel engine.
Interior Upgrades and Advanced Technology
Inside, the changes are more subtle but equally impactful. The centerpiece is the updated 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which now supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This marks a significant step forward in connectivity, catering to tech-savvy users who demand seamless integration with their devices.
Higher-end models also feature a new seven-inch digital instrument cluster, providing a modern and customizable display for drivers. The steering wheel is adorned with Peugeot’s updated Lion emblem, rounding off the cabin’s refreshed design.
These updates are aimed at enhancing both practicality and the overall driving experience, making the Landtrek suitable for a variety of uses, from work to leisure.
Powerful New Diesel Engine
One of the most significant updates to the Landtrek lies under the hood. The range now includes a new 2.2-liter turbodiesel engine, derived from Fiat’s Multijet platform. This engine, used in models such as the Fiat Titano and Jeep Cherokee, has been upgraded to deliver 147 kW and 450 Nm of torque—offering better performance compared to the previous diesel options.
The new engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while buyers can opt for a newly introduced eight-speed automatic gearbox for added convenience.
The existing engine lineup remains available, including a 1.9-liter turbodiesel (110 kW, 350 Nm) and a 2.4-liter turbo-petrol (155 kW, 320 Nm). Both options come with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can also choose between rear-wheel-drive and a part-time four-wheel-drive system, which includes low-range gearing and an electronic locking rear differential for enhanced off-road capability.
Local Production and Market Plans
The refreshed Landtrek is set to debut in key markets such as South America, the Middle East, and Africa in 2025. In South Africa, it will be locally assembled at a new manufacturing facility in the Coega Industrial Development Zone near Gqeberha, with production scheduled to commence in 2026.
This move underscores Peugeot’s commitment to the African market and positions South Africa as a strategic hub for its bakkie operations. The locally assembled Landtrek is expected to be competitively priced, further strengthening its appeal in the region.
Peugeot Landtrek Key Features at a Glance
With its updated design, powerful new engine, and modern technology, the refreshed Peugeot Landtrek is poised to become a strong contender in the bakkie market. Whether for work or leisure, it offers a blend of rugged capability and contemporary appeal, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of buyers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Overview | Mid-life overhaul of the Peugeot Landtrek, originally based on the Kaicene F70 (now Changan F70). |
| Exterior Changes | Redesigned front and rear bumpers, claw-motif LED daytime running lights, new grille with the Lion badge, gloss black fog light surrounds. |
| Rear Design | Replacement of the Lion logo on the tailgate with block letter Peugeot script above a 3D Landtrek badge. |
| Body Styles | Available as single cab or double cab. |
| Dimensions & Clearance | Unchanged dimensions; ground clearance between 214-235 mm (depending on alloy size); 600 mm wading depth; approach angle: 25°, breakover angle: 29°, departure angle: 27°. |
| Cargo Capacity | Can haul two Euro pallets; single cab version can carry three. |
| Towing Capacity | Standard towing capacity of 3,000 kg; upgraded to 3,500 kg with the new diesel engine. |
| Interior Changes | Enhanced 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, introduction of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, new Lion emblem on steering wheel, seven-inch digital instrument cluster in higher trims. |
| Engine Options | New 2.2-litre Fiat Multijet turbodiesel engine (147 kW/450 Nm); carried over 1.9-litre turbodiesel (110 kW/350 Nm); 2.4-litre turbo-petrol (155 kW/320 Nm or 157 kW/306 Nm in specific markets). |
| Transmission Options | Standard six-speed manual; optional eight-speed automatic for the new diesel engine. |
| Drivetrain Options | Rear-wheel-drive or part-time four-wheel-drive with low range and electronically locking rear diff-lock. |
| Production | Local production starting in 2026 at the Coega IDZ near Gqeberha; debut expected in 2025 in key markets including South America, the Middle East, and Africa |
Related article: Top 5 Best-Selling Bakkies in South Africa for October 2024
