With just a month to go before the gates open, the ninth edition of the Festival of Motoring powered by WesBank is taking shape at the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from August 28-30, 2026.
The event, which runs under the theme ‘Driven by purpose, defined by legacy’, will see 21 automotive brands showcased across the legendary circuit. Visitors can expect a mix of established manufacturers and newer entrants to the South African market.
Michael Dehn, Managing Director of Messe Frankfurt South Africa, said the festival reflects the current state of the local automotive sector. "We have seen steady growth in attendance over recent editions, which points to sustained consumer interest in live motoring experiences. This year's line-up brings together leading manufacturers alongside new players, demonstrating the Festival's role as a national platform for the industry."
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WesBank returns as naming sponsor for the 2026 edition. Lebogang Gaoaketse, Head of Marketing and Communication at WesBank, said: "Our long-standing connection to South African motorists, manufacturers and dealers positions us well to support an event that enables meaningful engagement across the industry. The festival represents more than an exhibition; it is a reflection of where mobility is headed."
The 2026 pit line-up features VW South Africa, Toyota South Africa, Jaecoo, Omoda, Icaur, GAC, Suzuki, BAIC, GWM, Haval, Tank, Ora, Chery, Lepas, BMW South Africa, Shelby, Mahindra, Geely, Dong Feng, Changan and LDV.
Volkswagen Group Africa, celebrating 75 years in South Africa, will use the event to introduce the all-new Volkswagen T-Roc to the local public for the first time through the House of Roc experience. The brand will also display the Vivo Xpress, Tayron and Amarok Dark Label, with the Golf GTI taking to the track. Visitors can look forward to test drives and hot laps, as well as interactive elements including a kids' zone, temporary tattoo station, karaoke, live DJs and a merchandise store.
BMW Group South Africa will be present with an on-site showroom located on the viewing deck of the main pit building, featuring BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad. Visitors will be able to book BMW M driving experiences via Howler.
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One of the festival's defining features remains its hands-on approach. General access ticket holders can take part in complimentary test drives and brand-led track experiences across three experiential platforms. Premium hot lap experiences are also available for purchase through the ticketing portal.
For those interested in off-road capability, the 4x4 Village returns, allowing visitors to see participating vehicles demonstrate their ruggedness in a purpose-built setting.
Adrenaline seekers can book paid hot laps through experience partners including the BMW M Driving Experience, Simola Hillclimb, VW Driving Academy, AMG Mercedes Driving Academy and the BMW M Performance Parts Race Car Series.
Cartrack makes its Festival debut as the exclusive Car Tracking and Telematics Partner, providing high-performance vehicles for guests in the premium hospitality area.
Brand South Africa joins as the Naming Rights Partner of the premium hospitality suite on the rooftop of the main pit building, offering views over the circuit. A separate family premium suite on the first floor has been designed for attendees with children.
Puma Energy, the Exclusive Fuel and Lubricants Partner, will host the Mechanics Fort and provide aerial displays with the Puma Flying Lions. The Puma Energy Family Zone offers a supervised space for children aged five and older, allowing parents to enjoy the festival.
Santam returns as Naming Rights Partner of the Handling Track.
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Getting to the venue has been streamlined with Gautrain offering complimentary shuttle services from its stations, while Avis provides park-and-ride shuttles from the Mall of Africa.
Judy Maharaj, Show Director of the Festival of Motoring, said: "The Festival of Motoring is an industry platform where brands, consumers, partners and enthusiasts come together through real experiences. From complimentary test drives on the race circuit and self-handling track to the 4x4 Village, premium lifestyle spaces and family-friendly experiences, the Festival offers a level of access that sets it apart on the continent. This year, we are ready for showtime."
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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