To prove that their new D-Max pickup truck is a tough and capable vehicle Isuzu decided to enter into the 2013 Rally Dakar. The competition spec D-Max is heavily modified, of course, but still it’s a good effort to raise public awareness about the car.

Based on the 4×4 double-cab model and powered by the 3.0 liter turbodiesel engine, the Dakar D-Max benefits from increased performance to 242 horsepower (178 kW) and 589 Nm (435 lb-ft) of torque.

The drivetrain is tweaked as well, and the 4×4 system is now backed by a sequential five-speed Hollinger gearbox and Xtreme rally clutch. Then there is the chassis upgrades and protective details, including aluminum skid plates and an integrated roll cage inside the cabin. The truck also gets DBA Kangaroo heavy duty brakes and 16 x 7-inch ROH Trojan wheels wrapped with Toyo Open Country M/T-R tyres.

So it’s got the performance and its got the versatility to deal with the unforgiving and totally brutal Dakar Rally. All it needs now is a good, experienced driver and a professional navigator.