Africa’s premier motoring celebration, the Festival of Motoring powered by WesBank, is gearing up for its 8th edition at the legendary Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit from 29 to 31 August 2025. While the roar of engines and high-speed track thrills remain a cornerstone of this event, it’s much more than just a playground for petrolheads. Whether you’re into extreme horsepower, prefer getting dirty in the bush, or simply love all things four-wheeled, there’s something here for everyone.
This year’s Festival promises an even broader celebration of the motoring lifestyle, with a strong focus on 4×4 adventures, overlanding culture and the tools, toys, and tech that go with it. For fans of dirt tracks, rooftop tents and self-sufficient travel, the event offers a dedicated 4×4 Adventure Zone designed to show what modern off-roaders are truly capable of. Hosted at the Kyalami skidpan, the zone includes rugged obstacle courses and challenging driving scenarios from big-name brands like Subaru and Isuzu, giving visitors the chance to test vehicles in a terrain-focused environment.
More than 100 automotive lifestyle exhibitors will be on hand, offering a range of gear and gadgets tailored to those who like their adventures with a bit of mud. Think rooftop camping setups, recovery kits, dual-battery systems, off-grid trailers, and everything in between – perfect for overlanding enthusiasts planning their next big trip.
For those keen to get behind the wheel themselves, the Self-Handling Track returns with free sessions allowing you to test your own driving chops in a controlled environment. Whether you’re navigating the tight corners of a custom course or feeling your way around a hill start, this is where confidence and capability come together.
Of course, it wouldn’t be the Festival of Motoring without a healthy dose of speed. For thrill seekers, there will be driving sessions from the likes of the BMW Motorsport Club Series and the famed Simola Hill Climb, bookable separately from mid-May at exclusive festival rates. Motorsport lovers can also catch live action from the Sunbet ZX10 Masters Cup Superbikes, with two official rounds held during the event, and crowd-pleasing demonstration laps by Formula One-style vehicles.
New for 2025 is the Vilaca Racing Ultimate Car and Driver Challenge, a dynamic time-attack event where driver skill meets machine capability over three days of fast-paced competition.
Brands confirmed to participate in this year’s event include some of South Africa’s favourite SUV, bakkie and 4×4 names – Toyota, Isuzu, GWM, Haval, Mahindra, Chery, and more – alongside the likes of VW, Suzuki, Subaru, LDV and BAIC. This means a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the full spread of vehicles on offer, from weekend trail tamers to fully kitted expedition rigs. Tickets are on sale now at www.howler.co.za, with early bird discounts available until the end of April. Prices are R295 for adults and R82 for children aged 4 to 12. Free shuttle services will be running from the Mall of Africa courtesy of SANI Car Rental, with internal shuttles provided by Volkswagen, Isuzu and Haval to get you around the grounds, including direct rides to the 4×4 village.
