The Isuzu D-MAX, already famous for its durability and fuel economy, has beaten back the world’s top competition by placing first among all diesel pickups in the Dakar 2009 rally, which was held in Argentina and Chile from January 3 to 18.

Bruce Garland and Hiroaki (Harry) Suzuki piloted the D-MAX with support from Isuzu Operations (Thailand) and Isuzu Motors Co., (Thailand), the pickup’s exporter and assembler, respectively.

Besides being the highest-placed diesel-powered pickup, the D-MAX placed 11th in the car category and Garland was the top T1/2 Amateur.

Another Isuzu D-MAX, driven by a Swedish pair, completed the course to capture 44th place.

Formerly known as the Paris-Dakar, the world’s most adventurous rally had been held mainly in Africa since its launch in 1979, but was staged for the first time in South America this year.

The punishing 9,500-kilometer round-trip course through Argentina and Chile crossed the plains of Patagonia, the Atacama Desert and even the rugged Andes Mountains. In total, 271 of 500 two- and four-wheel vehicles, including 91 of 177 cars, made it back to Buenos Aires.

Source: http://www.isuzu.co.jp/world/press/news_event/n_090309.html

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