The Peugeot Landtrek is up against stiff competition in the pick-up truck segment, dominated by well-established Japanese marques.
However, the Landtrek stands out with a RM120,072 price tag and a solid powertrain, as well as a value-for-money proposition as it comes with lots of premium kit which are offered by its rivals at substantially higher price levels (from an extra RM10,000 onwards).
Among the goodies are automatic LED headlights, front power seats, leatherette upholstery, a 10-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto support, and a 360-degree camera system.
In the safety department, there are six airbags, hill-descent control, hill start assist, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and even Lane Departure Warning.
When it comes to muscle, the 1.9-litre Landtrek is certainly no slouch and offers ample power with a 1.9-litre variable geometry turbo (VGT) turbodiesel mill producing 150hp and 350Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic.
Sport and Eco modes can be easily selected via buttons next to the gear shifter.
Distributed locally by Bermaz Auto Alliance, the Landtrek is based on the Changan Kaicene F70 pick-up truck and is produced at the Chinese automaker’s plant in Shenzhen, China.
To recap, Landtrek made its global debut in late 2020 as the French automaker aims for higher growth outside Europe by returning to the pick-up truck segment.
According to Peugeot, the new pick-up was designed by working closely with top automotive suppliers from Europe, Japan, and the US.
Its development programme included over two million test kilometres covered on various terrains and in all conditions, particularly on African roads.
The exterior design has an eye-pleasing styling with a big Lion logo as the centrepiece of the front grille and distinctive sculpted lines.
The interior of the Landtrek is a pleasant place to be in, with highlights including comfortable leather seats, a smooth-scrolling 10-inch touchscreen and a six-speaker audio system that delivers crisp sound quality.
We found three USB-A ports (two in front, and one for rear occupants), and there were no issues with Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity, with our smartphone.
The black leather seats, high-quality plastics and smooth metallic surfaces lend a premium feel.
Piano key-styled toggle switches (for functions such as hazard warning lights) provide a touch of style to the dashboard layout.
Large door bins, a deep centre compartment (between the front seats), front seat back pockets and integrated retractable hooks are among the numerous storage options for small items.
The 60/40 split-folding rear seats can be folded fully forward to lay flat, for additional cargo storage.
Rear occupants get the benefits of rear air-conditioning vents, as well as ample head and legroom for 1.7-metre people.
Our test drive pick-up unit was shod with 18-inch wheels and Goodyear Wrangler All-Terrain Adventure with Kevlar tyres sized 265/60, which are billed as grippy, durable tyres for off-road driving performance and better fuel economy.
We did not bring the Landtrek off-road and drove in 2H (two-wheel drive, high range) mode all the time.
Having a 360-degree camera system here certainly makes it a lot easier to park a big and long pick-up accurately, especially in cramped spaces.
We also like the external light, mounted on the cabin, which can light up the rear cargo deck at night.
The hydraulic power steering is pleasantly light and accurate, while the Landtrek’s ride quality is a little on the firm side on urban roads and highways.
The six-speed automatic operates smoothly, and we have no complaints about acceleration response although we found the diesel engine clatter to be quite intrusive and noticeable in the cabin.
We think more work is needed to better insulate the cabin from the noise of the diesel engine.
Aside from that niggle, the Landtrek is a workhorse which has an intelligent mix of brawn and competitive pricing and is backed by a well-designed and roomy interior filled with high-quality materials, ample storage solutions, digital connectivity as well as an excellent package of safety features.
It offers an attractive blend of nice passenger SUV-like (sport utility vehicle) comforts and practical features at a price tag which will have pick-up truck buyers drawing tough comparisons with its rivals.
SPECIFICATIONS
Peugeot Landtrek
Engine: 1,910cc, D20T turbodiesel engine, variable geometry turbo (VGT), 4 cylinders
Maximum power: 150hp at 4,000rpm
Maximum torque: 350Nm from 1,800 to 2,800rpm
Transmission: Six-speed automatic
Suspension: Front double wishbone; rear leaf springs
Features: LED headlights with automatic on/off function, LED daytime running lights, rain sensing wipers, powered and adjustable and folding side mirrors, front and rear parking sensors, 18-inch wheels, front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, roof rails, dual-zone automatic climate control, rear air-conditioning vents, powered front seats, leatherette seats, 10-inch touchscreen, voice command, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth support, six speakers, three USB ports, 360-degree camera system, engine start-stop button, external cargo area light, electronic 4WD control, rear differential lock
Safety features: Six airbags, tyre pressure monitoring system, dynamic stability control, anti-skid regulation, hill-descent control, hill start assist, Lane Departure Warning
Warranty: Five years or 100,000km (whichever is first)
Price: RM120,072 (on the road without insurance)
