With only a tenth of the race gone - at the end of day three of 13 - the brand-new Peugeot 2008 DKR had continued to make progress on the Dakar Rally in the hands of the event's most successful-ever driver line-up.
Compared to the longest stage of the rally, yesterday's action was gentler: 284 kilometres that took the crews to Chilecito, close to the Chilean border.
After the demanding special stage of the previous day, Carlos Sainz, Stéphane Peterhansel and Cyril Despres overcame their fatigue to attack day three of the Dakar. While rough, the third stage had the advantage of finishing early, allowing the crews to unwind and prepare for tomorrow at the bivouac in Chilecito.
Nonetheless, the action still provided a big challenge, with open and fast roads that made up classic Dakar territory, through the heart of one of the most beautiful regions in Argentina. There was plenty of dust and dramatic scenery, presenting the drivers with a final challenge before they head into Chile tomorrow.
Rally legend Carlos Sainz started the day sixth overall, and continued his rapid yet reliable run today. The Spaniard was able to up his pace, to finish the stage fourth fastest and improve his position in the general classification to fourth as well. "I am very happy: we had no problem with the car at all today and we managed to find a good rhythm on the stage, so here we are," he said. "I enjoyed it: another day gone and we are still in a good position."
