Toyota Motor Corporation will participate in the 1000 Miglia Gran Turismo Experience 2026, marking a significant milestone as the first Japanese manufacturer to enter vehicles in a 1000 Miglia-related event. The event is scheduled to take place in Brescia, Italy, from June 9 to 13, 2026.
The 1000 Miglia, originally a public road race held in Italy from 1927 to 1957, is renowned for showcasing the technological capabilities of production vehicles. Today, it serves as a historic rally limited to cars maintaining their original form from that era. Toyota's participation in the 1000 Miglia Gran Turismo Experience, a new event organized by Polyphony Digital Inc., aims to extend the celebration of classic cars.
Toyota plans to enter five vehicles that reflect its history and commitment to motorsports. These include the first-generation Crown Model RS, Toyota Sports 800 Model UP15, Toyota 2000GT Model MF10L, Supra Model JZA80, and Lexus LFA. Each vehicle represents a significant chapter in Toyota's pursuit of excellence in car manufacturing rooted in motorsports.
The first-generation Crown Model RS, launched in 1955, was Japan's first fully domestically produced passenger car and has a history of endurance, having completed a 50,000-kilometer drive from London to Tokyo in 1956. The Toyota Sports 800 Model UP15, introduced in 1965, was Toyota's first two-seat sports car and achieved notable victories in races like the 1965 All Japan Automobile Club Championship.
The Toyota 2000GT Model MF10L, developed to compete globally, set several world and international records in 1966. The Supra Model JZA80, known for its performance in the JGTC, represents Toyota's vision for sports cars. The Lexus LFA, part of the Lexus brand's premium sports cars, achieved multiple class victories at the Nürburgring 24 Hours Race.
Toyota sees the 1000 Miglia as a foundational event for its philosophy of “ever-better carmaking rooted in motorsports.” The company's participation aims to foster a cultural exchange between European and Japanese automotive traditions and build relationships with partners to enhance automotive culture.
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