Suzuki Auto South Africa is gearing up for the 16th annual Simola Hillclimb, taking place in Knysna from 30 April to 3 May. A proud supporter of this prestigious event since 2021, the Japanese carmaker recently inked a new three-year Tier One OEM sponsorship deal spanning 2026 to 2028.
Established in 2009, the Simola Hillclimb started with humble beginnings, featuring a modest entry list and roughly 1,500 spectators. Since then, it has evolved into the country’s premier motoring and motorsport lifestyle event, attracting international entries and crowds exceeding 20,000. It is also livestreamed to audiences around the world.
“The Simola Hillclimb holds a unique charm that resonates with Suzuki,” says Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager of Suzuki Auto South Africa.
“Its iconic location, passionate community and thrilling atmosphere align with our brand’s commitment to turning everything into a fun adventure. Over the past five years, our partnership has not only showcased Suzuki’s vehicles in an adrenaline-fuelled setting, but has also allowed us to connect with a dynamic audience that shares our values of adventure and performance.”
For the fifth consecutive year, Suzuki will field a group of race-ready vehicles driven by a select group of South African motoring media. Entered into the headlining King of the Hill challenge, the 2026 driver roster includes Avon Middleton (Top Gear South Africa), Samuel Da Fonseca (The Car Scene), Ziphorah Masethe (Ignition TV) and Girlie Lukhele (Driving with Girlie).
Each participant will compete for class honours in one of four identical Suzuki Swift GL+ hatchbacks. The cars and drivers will also feature in the popular pre-event King of the Hill Parade at the Knysna Waterfront on Friday, 1 May.
No stranger to the Simola Hillclimb, the fourth-generation Swift features an enviably low kerb weight (917kg) and the brand’s latest Z12E 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, producing 60kW at 5,700rpm and 112Nm at 4,300rpm. This results in a sprightly power-to-weight ratio, which is advantageous not only when accelerating off the line, but also when carving through and powering out of the course’s corners.
Beyond the four car entries, Suzuki will also showcase its latest special-edition Suzuki Hayabusa Ultimate Sportbike in a number of demo runs. A two-wheeled force to be reckoned with, it will be ridden by Suzuki Richards Bay Dealer Principal, Jaco Viviers.
A passionate motorcycle racer who competes on Suzuki machinery, Viviers uses his time on track to sharpen his skills and deepen his understanding of the brand. His hands-on racing experience feeds directly into his work, giving him real-world insight into performance, setup and rider needs. With 140kW on tap and a top speed of 299 km/h, the Hayabusa should be as exciting to watch as it is to ride.
“We eagerly anticipate our sixth year, and we’re excited to continue this journey with the Simola Hillclimb,” Carpenter concludes. “Whether it’s our Swift hatchbacks competing in King of the Hill or the Hayabusa thrilling fans on two wheels, this event gives us the perfect stage to showcase Suzuki’s versatility, performance and passion for motoring.”
