Toyota still have a lot of work to do if they are to challenge the likes of Ferrari and McLaren-Mercedes and ultimately win races, that's the verdict of team principal, Tadashi Yamashina.

While the Cologne-based outfit enjoyed a very solid season in 2008, finishing fifth in the constructors' championship and getting back onto the podium, Yamashina knows that they will need to maintain that momentum and do better next year.

"I am very proud of the progress the team has made in 2008. We have achieved one of our goals, to get back on the podium, and we have also shown a lot of potential while fighting at the front in several races," he said in Toyota's annual report.

"However, there is still a lot of work to do and we must continue to make this type of significant progress so we can achieve our aim, to win races and fight for the World Championship."

As for why Toyota moved forward this season and managed to notch up 16 top-eight finishes and 56 points in total, Yamashina attributed it to great team work, good communication and a great driver line-up, in the shape of Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock.

"I would like to say a special thank you to our race drivers Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock, who have been fantastic this season. I believe we have one of the best driver line-ups in Formula 1, a perfect combination of youth and experience," he continued.

"They have a strong relationship and have worked really hard together with their engineers to improve the car throughout the season.

"We recruited Timo after he showed great potential and fighting spirit in GP2 and we have certainly not been disappointed, he has learned a lot this season and improved continuously.

"He has been helped by Jarno, who has passed on the benefit of his experience and I believe the partnership has worked both ways because Timo's energy has spurred Jarno on more than ever. He is obviously a top driver and he has been more motivated than ever this season.