Peugeot has revealed its new Dakar Rally challenger at the Beijing motor show. The 2008 DKR marks Peugeot's return to the Dakar Rally for the first time in 25 years.
The car will be fielded in the event next year by Peugeot along with its partners, Total and Red Bull. While still looking similar to the Peugeot 2008 crossover, signicant motorsport additions give the 2008 DKR a more muscular profile. Peugeot has done away with the rear doors of the crossover, giving the competing car a more coupe-like appearance with shorter overhangs.
Peugeot engineers were given a specific brief on the dimensions of the car, interior fittings, wheel sizes and suspension upgrades. Rather than opting for a 4x4 configuration, Peugeot says it has instead chosen to make the 2008 DKR two-wheel drive only in order to benefit from its ability to 'roll' over sandy terrain.
Piloting the new car will be 2010 Dakar winner Carlos Sainz, alongside new competitor Cyril Despres. Peugeot won the Dakar Rally for four consecutive years between 1987 and 1990, first with the 205 T16 Grand Raid and later with the 405 T16 Grand Raid.
The 2015 Dakar Rally gets under way next January, with the race starting in Argentina.
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That car is awesome! Love
Hope it gives Mini a run for its money