Several South Africans, and the hardcore vehicles built here on home soil have left a lasting impression at the 45th edition of the Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia.

Toyota Gazoo Racing’s Nasser Al-Attiyah won the Dakar for a second consecutive year yesterday , bagging his 5th win in total.

There were a few surprises at this years toughest off-road event, like flooding in the desert , and even a marriage proposal at the podium.

Hot1027’s Tara Penny takes a look…