By Xolile Hopa

South Africa’s biggest automotive lifestyle event is gearing up for another action-packed weekend, with the Festival of Motoring, powered by WesBank, set to take over the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from 28 to 30 August 2026.

Now in its ninth year, the event will once again bring together leading vehicle manufacturers, driving experiences, lifestyle brands, and family entertainment under the theme “Driven by Purpose, Defined by Legacy.”

A total of 21 automotive brands are expected to exhibit, including Volkswagen South Africa, Toyota South Africa, Jaecoo, Omoda, iCAUR, GAC, Suzuki, BAIC, GWM, Haval, Tank, Ora, Chery, Lepas, BMW South Africa, Shelby, Mahindra, Geely, Dongfeng, Changan, and LDV.

Volkswagen Group Africa will use the event to celebrate 75 years in South Africa and will introduce the new Volkswagen T-Roc to the South African public for the first time. The brand’s House of Roc display will feature the T-Roc alongside models such as the Vivo Xpress, Tayron, and Amarok Dark Label, while the Golf GTI will take part in track activities throughout the weekend.

BMW Group South Africa will also have a strong presence, with displays from BMW, MINI, and BMW Motorrad. Visitors will also be able to book BMW M Driving Experience sessions through Howler.

One of the Festival of Motoring’s biggest attractions remains the opportunity for visitors to experience vehicles in motion rather than simply viewing them on display. Selected manufacturers will offer test drives and track experiences, while premium hot laps will be available to purchase through participating partners.

The 4×4 Village will return for visitors interested in off-road vehicles and live driving demonstrations away from the circuit.

Several experience partners will also offer paid hot laps, including the BMW M Driving Experience, Simola Hillclimb, Volkswagen Driving Academy, Mercedes-AMG Driving Academy, and the BMW M Performance Parts Race Car Series.

A premium family suite will also be available for visitors attending with children.

Puma Energy has been confirmed as the event’s fuel and lubricants partner and will host the Family Zone for younger visitors, alongside aerial displays by the Puma Flying Lions. Santam will sponsor the handling track, while Gautrain and Avis will provide shuttle services to help visitors travel to and from the venue.