Suzuki gearing up for the 15th Simola Hillclimb in Knysna

Suzuki Auto South Africa is set to ignite the motorsport scene at the 15th annual Simola Hillclimb, taking place in the picturesque town of Knysna from the 1st to 4th of May.

Renowned for its long-standing support as a Tier One OEM sponsor, Suzuki will again excite fans by taking ownership of Zones 4 and 8, the latter now affectionately referred to as the Suzuki Esses.

In a bid to showcase its diverse range of vehicles, Suzuki is entering three distinctive models in this year’s Hillclimb, driven by selected members of the South African motoring media. “We are thrilled to make another return to the Simola Hillclimb,” says Brendon Carpenter, Brand Marketing Manager of Suzuki Auto South Africa.

“It’s an incredible competition that allows the public to get up close and personal with a fantastic array of cars and drivers.”

Carpenter emphasises that while the spotlight often shines on ultra-powerful, high-budget machines, Suzuki aims to demonstrate that thrilling motorsport experiences are not exclusive to those with deep pockets. “You don’t need wads of disposable income and hundreds of kilowatts to take part in what is arguably one of the finest fixtures on the motorsport calendar,” he stated.

Media drivers gear up for competition

This year’s competitors include motoring TV presenter Ernest Page, who will pilot a fourth-generation Swift GLX. Equipped with Suzuki’s new Z12E 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine—producing 60kW and 112Nm—the lightweight hatchback is designed for agility. “I’m amped to be back at the Simola Hillclimb as a competitor,” declares Page, reflecting on his past racing adventures. “The new fourth-generation Swift is a blast to drive.”

Joining Page in the A1 class is fellow motoring journalist Jeanette Kok-Kritzinger, driving a third-generation Suzuki Swift Sport. Famed for its balance and spirited performance, this hot hatch boasts a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine that delivers 103kW and 230Nm. “I’ve wanted to take part in the Simola Hillclimb since it started in 2010. It’s different from any racing I’ve tackled before, but I’m excited for the challenge,” Kok-Kritzinger shares.

Rounding out the media trio is motoring scribe Sean Nurse, who will campaign a Suzuki Jimny GLX 3-door in the B9 class, known for bakkies and SUVs. “I think it’s really cool Suzuki has thrown the Jimny into the mix this year,” says Nurse, who anticipates that the Jimny’s AllGrip Pro four-wheel-drive system could shine in unpredictable weather conditions.

Excitement on two wheels

Adding another layer of excitement to the event, FIM Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship rider Nicole Purificati and young SBK talent Tristin Pienaar will perform demonstration runs on sleek Suzuki GSX-8R sportbikes.

“With a strong driver line-up and diverse selection of cars, I feel this just might be one of our most interesting Simola Hillclimb media challenges yet,” Carpenter says, expressing his enthusiasm for the event.

As the competition approaches, fans can expect a thrilling display of speed and skill at Simola Hill, where automotive passion collides with spectacular scenery.