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Mercedes Eyeing King of the Hill Title

Mercedes-Benz South Africa claimed victory in the Road Car and Supercar category of the 2025 Simola Hillclimb, and it is returning in 2026 as a Tier 2 Manufacturer sponsor for the 16th edition of the event, which takes place from 30 April to 3 May 2026. The German manufacturer is not only aiming to defend its title, but is also using this year’s Simola Hillclimb to celebrate its exceptional 140-year history.

“Racing is woven into the very DNA of Mercedes-Benz, and the Simola Hillclimb stands as the premier stage to showcase our latest performance benchmarks. For us, this event is more than a race; it is a celebration of pure automotive passion where we ‘lay it all on the line.’ It provides a unique opportunity to let ‘140 Years of Innovation’ speak for itself, allowing fans to get up close and share in the high-performance heritage that defines our brand,” says Justin Jacobs, Specialist: Media and PR Management, Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

“2026 is a milestone year, marking 140 years since Carl Benz filed the patent for the first motorised carriage. To celebrate this legacy, we are bringing a formidable lineup to the 16th edition of the Simola Hillclimb,” Jacobs says.

The mighty Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance, which secured the King of the Hill title in the Road Car and Supercar category on its local debut last year, will once again headline the brand’s participation. Clint Weston, head instructor of the AMG Experience Centre, will be back in action as he aims for back-to-back titles. Additionally, Courtney Nichole, an AMG Experience lead instructor, will be piloting a mystery vehicle that is sure to command attention at the start line.

To keep the adrenaline high, a variety of the latest AMG models will perform thrill runs up the Simola Hill, including the C 63 SE Performance, the latest E 53 and the very special CLA 45 Final Edition. Mercedes-Benz has enlisted the expert hands of Sean Nurse (AutoTrader.co.za) and Mark Jones (The Citizen Motoring) for the driving duties. Both are veteran journalists with extensive experience taking on the Simola Hill, ensuring the cars are pushed to their limits and delivering an exhilarating ride for the guests.

Furthermore, in honour of the illustrious brand’s 140 Years of Innovation, it will host a curated display of classic Mercedes-Benz models at the Fan Fest in Hedge Street, Knysna, on Thursday 30 April and Friday 1 May. “This exhibition bridges the gap between our historic milestones and our electrified future, making the 2026 Simola Hillclimb an event to remember,” Jacobs says.

The 16th edition of the Simola Hillclimb takes place from 30 April to 3 May 2026.

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