Toyota’s involvement in motorsport dates back to its early days, and after nearly seven decades in the racing world, the company has chosen to consolidate much of its motorsport activities under the name Toyota Gazoo Racing. But what does “Gazoo” mean, and how does this shift impact the well-known Toyota Racing Development (TRD) and Toyota Racing brands? Understanding this rebranding and Toyota’s multiple racing divisions requires a closer look.
TRD, Toyota’s most recognizable racing division, is also its oldest. It originally launched in 1957 under the name Toyota Sports Corner (TOSCO). However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that Toyota truly committed to motorsport. In 1976, the division was rebranded as Toyota Racing Development (TRD), signifying a new era for the company’s racing ambitions. Initially headquartered in Japan, TRD expanded to the United States in 1979 to focus on off-road truck racing. Over the years, its scope grew to include road racing and the racing efforts of Toyota’s other brands, such as Lexus and the now-discontinued Scion.
The term “Gazoo” originates from a Japanese word for “image” or “snapshot,” and it reflects Toyota’s vision of constantly improving its cars through competition and innovation. By unifying most of its racing activities under the Toyota Gazoo Racing name, the company aims to streamline its identity while preserving the legacy of TRD and its other motorsport ventures. Despite the rebranding, Toyota maintains multiple racing programs to cater to different motorsport disciplines, showcasing its broad expertise in the field.
