Peugeot Landtrek to make ASEAN debut next year

Mention ‘Peugeot’ and most people will readily associate it with sedans, hatchbacks, and crossovers (once they’ve hurdled the challenge of how to pronounce the name properly). But it could be the next contender in the midsize pickup wars, with its Landtrek model scheduled to premiere in the ASEAN region in 2022. 

Peugeot's midsize pickup is coming to Southeast Asia next year

The truck was spotted undergoing tests in Malaysia, where it is expected to make its regional debut between July and October next year. Also known as the Changan Hunter and Kaicene F70, the Landtrek was jointly developed by Chinese carmaker Changan and French multinational auto alliance Groupe PSA. Following its ASEAN debut, the Landtrek will be assembled in the former Naza manufacturing facilities in Kedah, where it joins the refreshed 3008 and 5008 SUVs.  

Standard on the Landtrek are 235mm of ground clearance and water wading depth of up to 600mm. Automatic LED headlamps come with daytime running lights, while the tinted safety windshield uses rain-sensing wipers. Side steps aid in ingress and egress, while the rear bed has hooks for securing cargo, as well as a 12-volt power outlet for plugging external equipment. A selection of 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels are available. 

Rear cargo hooks and a 12-volt external outlet are standard

The dual-cab configuration means ample room for up to five people inside on full leather upholstery, with the rear bench foldable for more cargo space. Peugeot’s 508 sedan served as the inspiration for the stylish cockpit that incorporates piano key-style control switches, a semi-digital instrument panel, and 10-inch floating type head unit. 

A Euro 5-compliant 1.9-liter diesel engine with variable geometry turbo is expected for the Malaysian market, rated at 190 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque, partnered with a 6-speed manual gearbox. In other territories, a 2.4-liter gasoline engine producing 210 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque is available, as well as a 6-speed automatic. The Landtrek can be had in both 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, the latter with a rear differential lock. 

The Landtrek's interior features a sedan-inspired layout

One surprise addition is the presence of driver-assist features on the Landtrek, on top of the airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and hill descent control expected in this category. The Landtrek can be equipped with a 360-degree camera system for maneuvering in tight spaces, as well as a lane departure warning feature and trailer swing control.   

The Malaysia-assembled Landtrek could eventually find its way to Thailand, one of the biggest markets in the world for pickups. In the event that the Landtrek hits the Philippine market, would it be formidable against more established stalwarts such as the Toyota Hilux, Mitsubishi Strada, Ford Ranger, and Isuzu D-Max? 

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