The new 2021 Peugeot Landtrek was just unveiled this week. Peugeot has a history of building pickups and SUVs and is well-versed in developing both. So we wonder: given that the newly-formed Stellantis has both Ram and Peugeot under the same roof, could this be Ram’s Ford Ranger/Chevy Colorado beater? 

To become the midsize Ram all it needs is a big, chrome Ram head

About all that it would need to become the midsize Ram is a big, chrome Ram head in the grille. That, along with parts distribution, advertising, safety certification, and a little luck. Nothing is as easy as it sounds. Still, with Peugeot laying plans to return to the US before the whole Stellantis thing happened, we can’t imagine it didn’t have US certification in mind when first developing the Landtrek. 

First off, it comes with two bodies; a single- and double-cab. It is also available in different wheelbases. Towing capacity is 7,000 lbs which is the high end of Chevy Colorado towing capabilities. Both two- and four-wheel-drive are available as you would expect. 

There are a variety of powertrains available in the Landtrek

In Europe and other environs, there are a variety of powertrains available. These include both a 1.9-liter diesel and a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with over 200 hp. Both a Getrag 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission is available, too. 

Safety features abound in the Landtrek, keeping it technically as sophisticated as any other midsize competition. Hill Descent Control, an enhanced traction system, towing assist Swing Control, and more are standard. Up to four cameras are available along with a camera in the passenger-side rear-view mirror all provide 360-degree vision support for the driver. Inside there is a 10-inch HD screen similar to the Peugeot 508 housing advanced connectivity and dual-zone air conditioning are just some of its features.

Taking a page from sibling Jeep there are over 40 accessories already available for the Landtrek. Running boards, a glass top insert, chrome roll bar, and safety mats are just a few that are mentioned. What isn’t available the aftermarket will provide as it adapts current products to the new Ram. That is if it becomes a Ram. 

Is the Landtrek being eyed to fill a slot in the Ram lineup?

We don’t have any inside knowledge as to whether the Landtrek is being eyed to fill a slot in the Ram lineup or not. But it has the looks, technology, and history that make it a compelling pickup truck. It was tested for over one million miles that included West Africa and Middle Eastern deserts. 

Speaking of West Africa, the 2021 Landtrek will gradually be released into different parts of the world soon to debut in West Africa and the Maghreb, and the rest of Central African countries. Right-hand drive Landtreks will show up soon in Southern and Eastern African countries, followed by the Middle East. So there are some serious markets that the Landtrek services. In fact, in the Middle East Africa region, it has sold 300,000 Landtreks annually. 

The Landtrek is exactly what the merger that is Stellantis was made for. Here is a serious product that fills a hole in the Ram lineup with very little cost to make it happen. Think about it.