About

Since the beginning in 1979, when 13 of the 74 vehicles that finished were Toyotas, every Dakar Rally has had Toyota vehicles racing in them. Throughout the demanding race, Toyota’s quality, durability, and reliability are evident for all to see. This is especially true in the Production category, as there are rigid rules and restrictions on modifications. With so few modifications available, the base performance alone must be enough for the competitors to cross the line. Due to its strength in the rally, Toyota remains a popular vehicle for privateer racers. The official Toyota team, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing South Africa (TGRSA), first entered the Super Production class in 2012 with their Toyota Hilux, and since then the TGRSA Hilux has performed well, earning a spot in the Top 10 every year. Every year for the past 7 years, TGRSA has battled it out in the Dakar Rally as a local South Africa team. Starting in 2020, however, the team will continue to strive as it is restructured into a works team of TOYOTA GAZOO Racing.