2026 Simola Hillclimb Preview

The 16th edition of the Simola Hillclimb is set to roar into life from 30 April to 3 May 2026. The event will, once again, take place in the picturesque coastal town of Knysna. The event is widely regarded as South Africa’s premier motorsport and motoring lifestyle event, with competitors and fans descending on the town from all corners of SA.

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Celebration of Speed

Over a single extended weekend, the 1,9 km stretch of public road is transformed into a world-class time trial venue. The result is an adrenaline-charged festival that delivers countless timed runs and showcases an extraordinary variety of cars, from pre-war classics to modern performance machines. Fans are thrilled as they watch experienced, and novice, pilots extract maximum pace from their mounts, challenging apexes and brake markers with ever-increasing bravado.

Old Timers

Proceedings begin with Classic Car Friday, that brings together meticulously prepared entries spanning more than seven decades of motoring history. From classic Rileys and MGs to Alfa Romeos, BMWs and American muscle there is a wide array of machinery on display. There are also serious track weapons such as the legendary Chevron B19, Lolas, GT40s and Cobras.

The classic field is further enriched by iconic modern-classics across multiple classes. Enthusiasts can look forward to seeing iconic Nissan Skyline GT-R variants—including R32, R33 and R34 models—alongside historic race cars such as Porsche 911s and Shelby Daytonas.

Once Friday’s track action is complete, fans are treated to the, now traditional, parade through the Knysna waterfront area. Petrolheads can get up close and personal as all cars are on display for the public. High-revving performance machines are then unleashed through the closed streets of the city. Drivers happy to oblige with burnouts, donuts and wheelies.

King of the Hill

As the weekend progresses, attention shifts to the fiercely competitive King of the Hill challenge. Modern performance takes centre stage on Saturday and Sunday. This category is divided into road-going cars, modified saloons and single-seater or prototype racecars.

In the road car and supercar category, the spotlight will once again fall on the formidable Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance, representing Mercedes-Benz. It will face competition from its traditional rivasl BMW, which brings the latest hybrid M5 driven by international GT racing star Jens Klingmann.

Race fans can expect a thrilling mix of machinery including McLarens, Ferraris, Audi R8s and Porsche 911 variants. Electric and hybrid innovation is also well represented, with entries such as the Alfa Romeo Junior Veloce and Mini Cooper SE reflecting the evolving shape of high-performance motoring.

Automakers Aplenty

Manufacturers have, once again, flocked to the Simola Hillclimb. The 2026 edition features a strong lineup of OEM brands. Leading the charge is Suzuki Auto South Africa, which expands its presence with multiple entries in the media challenge.

Mercedes-Benz South Africa returns as a major contender and celebrates its 140-year heritage, while BMW Group South Africa fields entries across BMW and Mini. In addition there are entries from Volkswagen and Stellantis (with Alfa Romeo).

Special Machines

The modified saloon car category takes things to an extreme level, featuring heavily engineered machines producing well over 1 000 kW. Reigning champion Pieter Zeelie returns in his record-breaking Toyota MR2. He will be aiming to fend off challenges from monstrous Nissan GT-Rs and a new Volkswagen Motorsport entry that has remained a secret ahead of its debut. These cars combine massive power with real aero downforce, with the aim of blasting up the narrow hillclimb course in the quickest time possible.

Race Specials

In the single-seater and prototype category, all eyes will be on the anticipated showdown between Andre Bezuidenhout and Robert Wolk. Both drivers will compete in near-identical Gould GR55 single-seaters, setting the stage for a dramatic battle at the top of the leaderboard. Bezuidenhout’s record run in 2022—completed at an average speed of over 200 km/h—remains a benchmark that continues to define the event’s reputation.

With over 20 000 spectators expected, a vibrant Fan Fest, live streaming coverage and a packed program of racing, demonstrations and parades, the 2026 Simola Hillclimb promises to be another unforgettable chapter in the event’s history.