Suzuki Auto South Africa will demonstrate some of its latest products at the 15th edition of the Simola Hillclimb, which will be running from 1 to 4 May 2025.
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The next edition of the Simola Hillclimb is edging closer, and physical preparation for the event will take the next two weeks before the cars and spectators arrive. Suzuki Auto South Africa is once again set to make its presence felt by continuing the tradition of being a Tier One OEM sponsor. Like the years before, the Japanese automaker will bring a selection of sporty and lifestyle-oriented products.
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This year, Suzuki takes control of the winding Zones 4 and 8, the latter has now become colloquially known as the Suzuki Esses. Suzuki has once more added that its 2025 campaign isn’t about bringing the loudest or most expensive cars to the party—it’s about reminding spectators that fun behind the wheel doesn’t have to come with a six-figure price tag.
Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager of Suzuki Auto South Africa, says the brand’s return reflects its continued passion for motorsport that’s both accessible and engaging. “The Simola Hillclimb is a celebration of performance in all its forms. We’re not chasing lap records—we’re showing that motoring fun exists at every level. Suzuki is here to make the case that you can have an absolute blast without spending a fortune.”
The 2025 edition will see a fourth-generation (non-Swift Sport) Swift GLX take to the Knysna strip. Under the bonnet is the firm’s new 1.2-litre three-cylinder Z12E engine, which is good for a meagre 60 kW and 112 N.m. These figures may not sound like much, but when paired with the lightweight Heartect platform, which includes a driver at under 1 tonne, things do look slightly more favourable for spirited driving.
The more potent third-generation Swift Sport will also be sharing the spotlight with its aforementioned contemporary counterpart and delivers 103 kW courtesy of Suzuki’s 1.4-litre BoosterJet engine. No stranger to conquering hills, Suzuki will also be entering a Jimny GLX 3-door into the event, which is equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine and AllGrip Pro four-wheel drive. For full-fat performance, the brand will also be represented on two wheels with demonstration runs by top riders Nicole Purificati and Tristin Pienaar aboard Suzuki’s new GSX-8R sportbikes.
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The 15th edition of the event will once again have contenders hurtling up the 1.9 km stretch of Knysna road between 1 to 4 May 2025.
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