Peugeot 2008 DKR16 update unveiled

As with its predecessor, which debuted at this year's rally in January, the new car has a body that's very loosely inspired by the Peugeot 2008.

The new DKR16 is longer, wider, lower and more powerful than this year's car, necessitating changes to the car's carbonfibre body, but Peugeot hasn't put any numbers to the changes.

Reduced front and rear overhangs are said to improve the most extreme 2008's ability to deal with dunes, river beds and large rocks.

Lurking below the revised bonnet is a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel engine that's been tuned not only for more grunt, but also improved drivability on twistier stages.

Other under the skin changes include a toughened up suspension system and improved weight distribution. New one-piece magnesium wheels replace this year's two-piece aluminium units. These new wheels are paired with lighter Michelin tyres.

As with all Dakar Rallies since 2009, next year's edition will take in South America due to security issues across Africa.

The 2016 race will begin on January 2 in Buenos Aires, with riders and drivers traversing Argentina and Bolivia before finishing up in Rosario, just 300km north-west of the Argentine capital.