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Muscle cars roar in

New era of TA2 V8 racing set to excite Kiwi fans from later this month.
Posted on 15 October, 2025
Muscle cars roar in

A new chapter in motorsport is about to begin with the launch of a national TA2 series bringing one of the world’s fastest-growing racing categories to our shores.

Already a hit in Australia and the United States, TA2 delivers the power, noise and spectacle that fans love with big V8s, iconic American muscle-car styling and wheel-to-wheel racing.

Later this month, Kiwi fans will finally get their chance to experience this with an MSNZ national championship designed to provide an exciting new platform for drivers and teams.

“TA2 represents everything people love about motorsport,” says Paul Manuell, TA2 NZ director. “It’s fast, loud, affordable and incredibly competitive. We believe this series will capture the imagination of fans create a new generation of motorsport heroes.”

The TA2 category features modern, purpose-built vehicles powered by 6.2-litres and wrapped in bodywork that pays homage to legendary muscle cars, such as the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger.”

With controlled components to keep costs in check, the focus is firmly on driver skill and close racing ensuring every meeting is action-packed.

The launch of TA2 here will not only broaden the country’s motorsport landscape, but also create new opportunities for young drivers wanting to advance to professional-level racing. The category has proven to be a pathway overseas with drivers now featuring in Supercars, GT racing and international competition.

The inaugural TA2 NZ Championship kicks off on October 30 at Hampton Downs with events to follow locked in with the NextGen Premier Championship at Teretonga, Highlands and Manfeild. The final round is at the Supercars event at Taupo in April. 

The organisers say fans can expect a festival atmosphere at every round, combining the on-track spectacle with fan-friendly experiences, and chances to meet the drivers in the pits and paddock.

“This is a super-exciting championship built for the fans,” says Gary Lathrope, TA2 category manager. “TA2 brings back the sound, speed and style of racing people want to see. It’s been a long time in the making and we’re proud to be introducing it to New Zealand.” Check out ta2nz.co.nz to find out more.