Sainz, who had previously won the race back in 2010 suceded team-mate Stéphane Peterhansel, who had claimed the previous two editions of the Dakar.
Qatari driver Nasser Al-Attiyah (Toyota) came second in the race and Peugeot driver, South African Giniel De Villiers secured a place on the overall podium following his win in the thirteenth and final stage.