Like the standard A7, the RS7 Sportback is a midsize luxury entry that comes equipped with five doors, four seats for passengers and a rear hatch for cargo duties. While it’s already known what the standard A7 will look like following its debut last year, the upcoming RS7 Sportback can be expected to get all the traditional performance styling cues.

Kicking things off will be a select number of updates to the front bumper, with wider intakes, sharp headlight housings and a more pronounced aero setup. Standard appointment will include LEDs for the forward illumination, while laser headlight elements should be optional. The RS7 will also come with a black honeycomb mesh insert for the front grille, as opposed to the horizontal bars seen on the standard A7 model.

Moving to the sides, there will be massively flared-out fenders. These will be even more pronounced than those seen on the standard A7. The profile view will also reveal the RS7’s coupe-like roofline and more aggressive side skirts. Large wheels will take up residence in the corners, measuring between 20 and 21 in. in diameter.

Under the hood, the ’19 RS7 Sportback is rumored to be equipped with an all-new twin-turbo 4.0L V8 gas burner. It’s a stout powerplant, no doubt about it, and it’s believed that Volkswagen will use it in the new Bentley Continental GT as well.

Mounted in the RS7, peak output could come to as much as 650 hp, besting the first-generation model by a considerable margin.

As a reference, the current RS7 gets 560 hp in standard trim and 605 hp with the performance package, hitting 0–60 in 3.7 seconds in standard form and 3.6 seconds in the performance trim.

The boost to 650 hp in the RS7 is exciting, but even more exiting is the rumor that the next model might go hybrid with an even-faster e-tron version. Pulling technology from the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the RS7 e-tron could pump out as much 700 hp, making for Audi’s first-ever high-performance hybrid plug-in model. Making that happen will be 150 hp from a lithium-ion battery and electric motor combo, plus 550 hp from the internal-combustion engine.

Per usual, quattro AWD will come as standard, which is pretty much a necessity when making this much muscle. Routing it all will be an eight-speed S-tronic automatic transmission, also equipped as standard.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Like the standard A7, the RS7 Sportback is a midsize luxury entry that comes equipped with five doors, four seats for passengers and a rear hatch for cargo duties. While it’s already known what the standard A7 will look like following its debut last year, the upcoming RS7 Sportback can be expected to get all the traditional performance styling cues.

Kicking things off will be a select number of updates to the front bumper, with wider intakes, sharp headlight housings and a more pronounced aero setup. Standard appointment will include LEDs for the forward illumination, while laser headlight elements should be optional. The RS7 will also come with a black honeycomb mesh insert for the front grille, as opposed to the horizontal bars seen on the standard A7 model.

Moving to the sides, there will be massively flared-out fenders. These will be even more pronounced than those seen on the standard A7. The profile view will also reveal the RS7’s coupe-like roofline and more aggressive side skirts. Large wheels will take up residence in the corners, measuring between 20 and 21 in. in diameter.

Under the hood, the ’19 RS7 Sportback is rumored to be equipped with an all-new twin-turbo 4.0L V8 gas burner. It’s a stout powerplant, no doubt about it, and it’s believed that Volkswagen will use it in the new Bentley Continental GT as well.

Mounted in the RS7, peak output could come to as much as 650 hp, besting the first-generation model by a considerable margin.

As a reference, the current RS7 gets 560 hp in standard trim and 605 hp with the performance package, hitting 0–60 in 3.7 seconds in standard form and 3.6 seconds in the performance trim.

The boost to 650 hp in the RS7 is exciting, but even more exiting is the rumor that the next model might go hybrid with an even-faster e-tron version. Pulling technology from the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the RS7 e-tron could pump out as much 700 hp, making for Audi’s first-ever high-performance hybrid plug-in model. Making that happen will be 150 hp from a lithium-ion battery and electric motor combo, plus 550 hp from the internal-combustion engine.

Per usual, quattro AWD will come as standard, which is pretty much a necessity when making this much muscle. Routing it all will be an eight-speed S-tronic automatic transmission, also equipped as standard.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Like the standard A7, the RS7 Sportback is a midsize luxury entry that comes equipped with five doors, four seats for passengers and a rear hatch for cargo duties. While it’s already known what the standard A7 will look like following its debut last year, the upcoming RS7 Sportback can be expected to get all the traditional performance styling cues.

Kicking things off will be a select number of updates to the front bumper, with wider intakes, sharp headlight housings and a more pronounced aero setup. Standard appointment will include LEDs for the forward illumination, while laser headlight elements should be optional. The RS7 will also come with a black honeycomb mesh insert for the front grille, as opposed to the horizontal bars seen on the standard A7 model.

Moving to the sides, there will be massively flared-out fenders. These will be even more pronounced than those seen on the standard A7. The profile view will also reveal the RS7’s coupe-like roofline and more aggressive side skirts. Large wheels will take up residence in the corners, measuring between 20 and 21 in. in diameter.

Under the hood, the ’19 RS7 Sportback is rumored to be equipped with an all-new twin-turbo 4.0L V8 gas burner. It’s a stout powerplant, no doubt about it, and it’s believed that Volkswagen will use it in the new Bentley Continental GT as well.

Mounted in the RS7, peak output could come to as much as 650 hp, besting the first-generation model by a considerable margin.

As a reference, the current RS7 gets 560 hp in standard trim and 605 hp with the performance package, hitting 0–60 in 3.7 seconds in standard form and 3.6 seconds in the performance trim.

The boost to 650 hp in the RS7 is exciting, but even more exiting is the rumor that the next model might go hybrid with an even-faster e-tron version. Pulling technology from the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the RS7 e-tron could pump out as much 700 hp, making for Audi’s first-ever high-performance hybrid plug-in model. Making that happen will be 150 hp from a lithium-ion battery and electric motor combo, plus 550 hp from the internal-combustion engine.

Per usual, quattro AWD will come as standard, which is pretty much a necessity when making this much muscle. Routing it all will be an eight-speed S-tronic automatic transmission, also equipped as standard.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Like the standard A7, the RS7 Sportback is a midsize luxury entry that comes equipped with five doors, four seats for passengers and a rear hatch for cargo duties. While it’s already known what the standard A7 will look like following its debut last year, the upcoming RS7 Sportback can be expected to get all the traditional performance styling cues.

Kicking things off will be a select number of updates to the front bumper, with wider intakes, sharp headlight housings and a more pronounced aero setup. Standard appointment will include LEDs for the forward illumination, while laser headlight elements should be optional. The RS7 will also come with a black honeycomb mesh insert for the front grille, as opposed to the horizontal bars seen on the standard A7 model.

Moving to the sides, there will be massively flared-out fenders. These will be even more pronounced than those seen on the standard A7. The profile view will also reveal the RS7’s coupe-like roofline and more aggressive side skirts. Large wheels will take up residence in the corners, measuring between 20 and 21 in. in diameter.

Under the hood, the ’19 RS7 Sportback is rumored to be equipped with an all-new twin-turbo 4.0L V8 gas burner. It’s a stout powerplant, no doubt about it, and it’s believed that Volkswagen will use it in the new Bentley Continental GT as well.

Mounted in the RS7, peak output could come to as much as 650 hp, besting the first-generation model by a considerable margin.

As a reference, the current RS7 gets 560 hp in standard trim and 605 hp with the performance package, hitting 0–60 in 3.7 seconds in standard form and 3.6 seconds in the performance trim.

The boost to 650 hp in the RS7 is exciting, but even more exiting is the rumor that the next model might go hybrid with an even-faster e-tron version. Pulling technology from the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the RS7 e-tron could pump out as much 700 hp, making for Audi’s first-ever high-performance hybrid plug-in model. Making that happen will be 150 hp from a lithium-ion battery and electric motor combo, plus 550 hp from the internal-combustion engine.

Per usual, quattro AWD will come as standard, which is pretty much a necessity when making this much muscle. Routing it all will be an eight-speed S-tronic automatic transmission, also equipped as standard.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Like the standard A7, the RS7 Sportback is a midsize luxury entry that comes equipped with five doors, four seats for passengers and a rear hatch for cargo duties. While it’s already known what the standard A7 will look like following its debut last year, the upcoming RS7 Sportback can be expected to get all the traditional performance styling cues.

Kicking things off will be a select number of updates to the front bumper, with wider intakes, sharp headlight housings and a more pronounced aero setup. Standard appointment will include LEDs for the forward illumination, while laser headlight elements should be optional. The RS7 will also come with a black honeycomb mesh insert for the front grille, as opposed to the horizontal bars seen on the standard A7 model.

Moving to the sides, there will be massively flared-out fenders. These will be even more pronounced than those seen on the standard A7. The profile view will also reveal the RS7’s coupe-like roofline and more aggressive side skirts. Large wheels will take up residence in the corners, measuring between 20 and 21 in. in diameter.

Under the hood, the ’19 RS7 Sportback is rumored to be equipped with an all-new twin-turbo 4.0L V8 gas burner. It’s a stout powerplant, no doubt about it, and it’s believed that Volkswagen will use it in the new Bentley Continental GT as well.

Mounted in the RS7, peak output could come to as much as 650 hp, besting the first-generation model by a considerable margin.

As a reference, the current RS7 gets 560 hp in standard trim and 605 hp with the performance package, hitting 0–60 in 3.7 seconds in standard form and 3.6 seconds in the performance trim.

The boost to 650 hp in the RS7 is exciting, but even more exiting is the rumor that the next model might go hybrid with an even-faster e-tron version. Pulling technology from the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, the RS7 e-tron could pump out as much 700 hp, making for Audi’s first-ever high-performance hybrid plug-in model. Making that happen will be 150 hp from a lithium-ion battery and electric motor combo, plus 550 hp from the internal-combustion engine.

Per usual, quattro AWD will come as standard, which is pretty much a necessity when making this much muscle. Routing it all will be an eight-speed S-tronic automatic transmission, also equipped as standard.

Photo credit: Brian Williams, SpiedBilde

Nurse Who Saved Lives During California Wildfires Gets Gift From Toyota

Allyn Pierce drove his Toyota Tundra through the fire to get to a hospital and help take care of and evacuate patients.

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/11/12/us/wildfires-california-escape.html

By Lindsay Bianco

Aftermarket families in need are asked to complete the simple application on the AACF website.

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has launched phase one of urgent response to aftermarket families affected by the California wildfires. The New York Times reported that California is fighting approximately 17 large fires simultaneously, including the largest in the state’s recorded history. The blaze has claimed 59 lives and destroyed nearly 9,000 homes.

“Applications for help have been increasing in the wake of the unprecedented wild fires in California, so we initiated our crisis-response plans last week,” said AACF President Lynn Parker. “Hundreds of aftermarket employees live and work in the fire areas throughout California.”

AACF Executive Director Joel Ayres added, “We are working with our Awareness Partners: SEMA, the Auto Care Association, MEMA and others to try to reach aftermarket families in need as quickly as possible.”

Aftermarket families in need are asked to complete the simple application on the AACF website. And for those wanting to contribute, donations can be made online or by calling 772-286-5500.

By Lindsay Bianco

Aftermarket families in need are asked to complete the simple application on the AACF website.

The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF) has launched phase one of urgent response to aftermarket families affected by the California wildfires. The New York Times reported that California is fighting approximately 17 large fires simultaneously, including the largest in the state’s recorded history. The blaze has claimed 59 lives and destroyed nearly 9,000 homes.

“Applications for help have been increasing in the wake of the unprecedented wild fires in California, so we initiated our crisis-response plans last week,” said AACF President Lynn Parker. “Hundreds of aftermarket employees live and work in the fire areas throughout California.”

AACF Executive Director Joel Ayres added, “We are working with our Awareness Partners: SEMA, the Auto Care Association, MEMA and others to try to reach aftermarket families in need as quickly as possible.”

Aftermarket families in need are asked to complete the simple application on the AACF website. And for those wanting to contribute, donations can be made online or by calling 772-286-5500.

By SEMA Editors

Journalists who cover the automotive aftermarket industry are invited to join the new Facebook Group dubbed “SEMA Media Professionals.” Launched by SEMA, the group will provide all editorial representatives, including editors, reporters, freelance journalists and photojournalists, a platform to network, share professional advice, suggest story ideas and keep up with industry news.

“We’re excited to bring a new platform that will help the media connect and communicate with one another,” said Juan Torres, SEMA media relations specialist. “This is about sharing questions, concerns, news and challenges in the industry, not just about SEMA. It will be a valuable resource for all things related to media in the industry.”

To join SEMA Media Professionals, editors can request access to the closed group by simply clicking the “Join” button and answering a couple of questions to verify that they work in an editorial capacity.

For questions or more information, write to Juan Torres.

Compiled by SEMA Editors

Best in the Desert has added a brand-new class—PRO R1S—for 2019.

Best In the Desert Announces Updates to UTV Race Class and Races for 2019

Best In the Desert has released news about the 2019 UTV segment of its race program for the 2019 season, including the addition of a brand-new class—PRO R1S—which will create a place for the single-seat UTVs to compete. The RS1 number designation will be R900. Also, the UTV Rally Sportsman Class will become a class of its own. The Rally Class will have a three-race series, Parker “250,” UTV World Championships and Laughlin Desert Classic Night Race. The Sportsman UTV Class will now have its own number (S900), and Pro Unlimited UTV is now open to all 2900 numbers. Pro Turbo will now be T800–999.

IHRA Adds Sportsman Class to Summit SuperSeries

Officials from the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) have announced the addition of a Sportsman class to the IHRA Summit SuperSeries program, beginning in 2019. The Sportsman class is open to 12.00 and slower in the ¼-mile and 7.50 and slower in the ⅛-mile. The use of trans brakes, two steps and delay boxes are prohibited in this class. Sportsman racers who win Summit SuperSeries track championships or Summit Team Finals events will be invited to compete at the Summit SuperSeries World Finals October 17–19, 2019, at Memphis International Raceway for their chance to win the first-ever Sportsman National Champions and a $5,000 payout. 

Formula DRIFT Announces 2019 Schedules, New Korean Championship

Formula DRIFT President Jim Liaw has revealed the Formula DRIFT 2019 season schedules during its annual press conference at the 2018 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The PRO and PRO2 categories will visit several tracks and road courses in 2019, including Long Beach, Orlando, Atlanta, Dallas and more. Additionally, the 2019 schedule for Formula DRIFT Japan has been announced, featuring five events over a six-month period. Also announced during the press conference was a brand-new 2019 Formula DRIFT Korea Championship. During its inaugural season, four rounds will take place at Pocheon Raceway, one hour north of Seoul. Dates for the four rounds have yet to be finalized.

Formula DRIFT 2019 Provisional Schedule:

• Long Beach, California, April 5–6
• Long Beach, California, Super Drift Challenge Invitational, April 12–13
• Orlando, Florida, April 25–27
• Atlanta, Georgia, May 9–11
• Wall, New Jersey, June 7–8
• Monroe, Washington, July 19–20
• St. Louis, Missouri, August 8–10
• Dallas, Texas, September 12–14
• Irwindale, California, October 18–19

Formula DRIFT Japan 2019 Provisional Schedule:

• Suzuka Twin Circuit, May 18–19
• Ebisu Circuit, June 22–23
• Fuji International Speedway, July 26–27
• Okuibuki Motor Park, August 24–25
• Okayama International Circuit, October 5–6

NHRA Unveils 2019 Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Schedule

National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) officials have released the 2019 Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series schedule, which returns to action for an 18th year next season. The 2019 season kicks off at Orlando Speed World Dragway, in Orlando, Florida, February 1–2. The schedule also includes a new location, as the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series heads to Tucson Raceway in Tucson, Arizona, March 1–3, also returning to Atlanta Dragway, April 12–13. During the year, the series will feature doubleheader events at Texas Motorplex, Mission Raceway, Heartland Motorsports Park and Sonoma Raceway. The series will also feature two stops at Woodburn Dragstrip in Woodburn, Oregon, and The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway, where the 2019 season will finish, October 31–November 3. The upcoming 2019 schedule includes 44 divisional events with a minimum of six in each of the seven divisions. There will also be 25 regional events featuring the 260-mph Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car classes during the 2019 campaign. To view the entire  NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series for 2019, including the Northeast, Southeast, North Central, South Central, West Central, Northwest, and Pacific Divisions, visit the NHRA website.

NHRA Revises 2019 Mello Yello Series Schedule

National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) officials have announced that three dates on its 2019 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series schedule have been changed. The final three events of the season will now take place as follows:

• October 17–20: AAA Texas NHRA FallNationals, Dallas

• October 31–November 3: NHRA Nevada Nationals, Las Vegas

• November 14–17: Auto Club NHRA Finals, Pomona, California

The schedule refinement moves the AAA Texas NHRA FallNationals to take place after the NHRA Carolina Nationals in order to streamline travel across the country during the Countdown to the Championship, NHRA’s version of the playoffs. The Countdown still begins in Reading, Pennsylvania, and then travels to St. Louis. The final four events will then progress east to west, stopping in Charlotte, North Carolina; Dallas; Las Vegas; and Pomona, California. These revisions also accommodate the dates of the 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, which traditionally occurs immediately following the NHRA Nevada Nationals. Having the two events in close proximity to each other allows the entire racing community to attend both events. In related news, NHRA has announced that in 2019, the Pro Stock category will compete in 18 events in the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series. The class previously featured 24 races in years past.

For more racing news, visit Performance Racing Industry’s (PRI) eNewsletter.