Tue, 04/07/2026 - 13:03

By SEMA News Editors

 

ARP

Head Stud Kit for '27-'31 Ford Model A 4-Cylinder Engines

A photo of ARP's head stud kit of 27-31 Ford Model A.

 

ARP has introduced a new head stud kit (PN 151-4002) for '27-'31 Ford 201-cid Model A 4-cylinder engines. The kit includes 8740 chrome moly studs, parallel ground washers and forged, hardened, CNC-machined and polished stainless steel acorn nuts. All studs for vintage applications are manufactured in-house at ARP's California facilities.
 

arp-bolts.com

 

LEER

NexCap and NexCap Lo Modular Truck Caps

A pickup truck equipped with the LEER NexCap modular truck cap.

 

LEER has expanded its offerings with new customizable products, the NexCap and NexCap Lo Modular Truck Caps. With a low-profile design, each support up to 660 lbs. of static weight, including gear, bikes, kayaks, ladders and other equipment. The optional NexCap SideLocker provides side-access storage for frequently used items and gear and is designed to integrate seamlessly with the NexCap truck caps. The available NexStor drawer system and sliding deck features two drawers and two 50/50 slides that convert into a pop-out table, and enables truck owners to conveniently store items, the company said.

leer.com

 

 

American Powertrain

TKX Five-Speed and Magnum Six-Speed 2WD Conversion Kits

American Powertrain 2WD conversion kits.

 

American Powertrain is now offering a TKX Five-Speed and MAGNUM Six-Speed Pro Fit Transmission Conversion Kit, for any '99-'06 new body style GMT800 truck. A turnkey solution with minimal tuning required, both the five-speed and six-speed options preserve the look and feel of the truck's stock interior, the company said, and are engineered with a mid-mount shift location and a specially designed UnderDash Hydraulics bolt-on truck pedal.
 

americanpowertrain.com

 

DENSO

First Time Fit Product Line

DENSO First Time Fit products.

 

DENSO Products and Services Americas Inc., a subsidiary of automotive supplier DENSO Corp., has expanded its First Time Fit product lines of cabin air filters, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) sensors and light-duty A/C compressors. The new part numbers cover millions of cars, SUVs and pickup trucks on the road today, according to the company.
 

densoautoparts.com

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 13:02

By SEMA News Editors

An image of a powersport UTV in the SEMA Cruise.

 

With attendee registration for the 2026 SEMA Show opening next month, anticipation is building for the most influential gatherings in the automotive aftermarket.

 

"SEMA is a must-attend event and on so many gearheads' bucket lists for a very good reason. When you arrive, you'll see hundreds of builds that you just cannot even intake all of the information. And then there are so many people; it's like the industry is full of opportunities for important relationships," said Emily Reeves, creator and enthusiast.

 

Set for November 3-6 in Las Vegas, the SEMA Show delivers an attendee experience unlike any other, bringing together thousands of world-class vehicle displays alongside even more of the newest automotive aftermarket products from both emerging and established exhibitors. The SEMA Show floor serves as the ultimate destination to discover the latest product innovations and vehicle trends shaping the specialty-equipment market.

 

"SEMA to me is filled with versatility and dynamic builds and people and products. It's wild to walk the Show floor and really look at all the innovation and the passion that each of these [brands] has with their products. And then you look at the builds the people put hours of blood, sweat and tears into, and you can't help but have respect for it," Reeves said.

 

Beyond product discovery, the SEMA Show is designed to drive business growth. With the opportunity to engage with SEMA's 2,300-plus exhibitors, attend sessions and explore emerging trends, attendees gain valuable tools and strategies to elevate operations and maximize return on investment.

 

The 2026 event will also feature education sessions led by top industry experts, covering a wide range of topics designed to help professionals sharpen skills, gain insights and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Complementing the education program are live demonstrations, interactive features and specialty sections that highlight cutting-edge advancements across the aftermarket.

 

Attendees will be able to register for 90-plus educations sessions during the online registration process. After registration is approved, attendees can also add education sessions in the Registration Resource Center.

 

How to Register for the 2026 SEMA Show

 

Approved attendees will be able to secure a SEMA Show badge at the lowest available rate ($50) when registration opens on May 4. Pricing will increase (to $75) after the initial deadline of June 26. In short, the sooner an attendee registers for the SEMA Show, the more they save.

 

What You Can Do Now to Save on Your 2026 SEMA Show

 

Hotel reservations are open through SEMA's only official housing partner, onPeak. Bookings made in the official SEMA Show block are eligible for hotel loyalty and member programs and are guaranteed to be the lowest possible prices available. That's right: organizers will price-match if you happen to find a lower rate, so there's no downside to booking within the official SEMA Show hotel block at semashow.com/hotel.

Red button with text Book Here.

Read more about hotels.

 

Mark Your Calendar: SEMA Fest 2026 Is Happening

 

SEMA Fest, which has featured headliners Imagine Dragons, Cage the Elephant, Sublime and Queens of the Stone Age, will return to Las Vegas on Friday, November 6 with motorsports, music and car culture.

 

Tickets go on sale May 4 and will be available for purchase through the registration portal for qualified attendees securing a SEMA Show badge. Tickets will also be available for non-industry members on SEMAFest.com.

 

Visit SEMAFest.com to sign up for updates.

 

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 12:16

By Ashley Reyes

Graphic urging members to join a SEMA Council and Network committee.

 

Are you ready to move from the sidelines to the driver's seat? SEMA is officially accepting applications for Council & Network Select Committee volunteers through April 17 at www.sema.org/volunteer.
 

SEMA council and network select committee volunteers are the advocates for progress behind the association, helping to guide the success and direction of SEMA's nine specific market segments and professional communities. As SEMA prepares to enter a new fiscal year, the association seeks passionate industry professionals to donate their time and expertise to help develop valuable programs and resources valuable to members.  

SEMA Councils and Networks Select Committee volunteer.


 

Why You Should Answer the Call:
 

Volunteering isn't just about giving back--it's a strategic move for your professional growth.
 

  • Influence industry growth: Take a seat at the table to prioritize the issues and opportunities that matter most to your segment's future.
  • Grow industry knowledge: Gain "big picture" industry knowledge beyond your daily job description and use that knowledge to make an impact within the industry.  
  • Expand your network: Collaborate with the brightest, most innovative minds in the industry--turning peers into mentors and friends.
  • Hands-On leadership: Sharpen high-level skills in strategic planning, project management, collaboration and public speaking.
  • Accelerate your career: Open doors to speaking opportunities, advisory roles and strategic partnerships.


If you're ready to step into a leadership role within your segment, influence programs that have real impact, and turn your insight into meaningful action, you are invited and encouraged to apply for a Select Committee seat by April 17 at www.sema.org/volunteer.
 

Is This You?
 

The ideal candidate will be able to commit five to 10 volunteer hours a month, have strong strategic planning skills, significant aftermarket knowledge and a passion for giving back to the industry.
 

Find Your Community
 

SEMA's nine councils and networks represent the diverse heartbeat of our industry. Where do you fit?
 

  • Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) 
  • Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) 
  • Future Leaders Network (FLN) 
  • Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) 
  • Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) 
  • Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) 
  • SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) 
  • Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) 
  • Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) 
Tue, 04/07/2026 - 11:43

By the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)

People in the SBN SEMA Show booth at the 2025 SEMA Show.

 

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is proud to announce the return of its dynamic, expanded booth at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas.
 

The booth will again be an immersive space dedicated to visibility, connection and hands-on engagement for women in the automotive aftermarket.
 

After last year's tremendous success, SBN is now inviting companies, brands and women-owned businesses to apply to become booth partners for 2026 and help deliver another unforgettable experience.
 

Spanning 20x30 sq. ft., the SBN booth serves as a high‑traffic hub designed to showcase innovation, deliver education and celebrate the contributions of women across every segment of the automotive industry. Attendees can expect a full week of interactive programming, hands-on workshops, live demonstrations, creator-focused content and meaningful networking.
 

An Impactful Opportunity


Last year's booth partners shared overwhelmingly positive feedback about how the experience elevated their brands, expanded their reach and allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the industry's biggest platform.
 

"This experience helped our business in a powerful way through visibility and authentic connection," said Jeni Bukolt of HAVEN Creative Agency. "It allowed us to show up not just as an agency, but as leaders committed to empowering women in the aftermarket."
 

"The SBN team was incredibly supportive and welcoming, especially as this was our first-ever SEMA exhibit. The energy of the women who showed up, engaged and participated was unforgettable," Bukolt added.

People in the SBN Booth at the 2025 SEMA Show.

 

For small and emerging businesses that focus on advancing women, the SBN booth provides a great entry way into the SEMA Show. Erica Sietsma of AutoFluencer shared her experience as a booth partner: "As a small team staffing our own booth, the entire time would have been tough. Being part of the SBN booth made the time fly by, kept our spirits up and gave us a dedicated space where people could find us. This was hands down our best SEMA. We didn't feel isolated or alone; it felt integrated and impactful."

Why Become a 2026 SBN Booth Partner?
 

Partner companies benefit from:
 

  • High visibility within a major SEMA Show hall
  • Shared traffic and energy generated by multiple activations
  • Hands-on engagement opportunities with attendees
  • Support from the SBN volunteer and leadership team
  • A collaborative environment that elevates all partners
  • A chance to give back while growing your own brand presence


Last year's booth offered everything from technical workshops and creative intensives to live interviews and professional development sessions--formats that made the space a magnet for attendees seeking community and hands-on interaction.
 

Interested in Being Part of the 2026 Experience?
 

SBN is looking for companies that want to:
 

  • Host demonstrations, workshops or creative activations
  • Support or highlight women in the industry
  • Show up as leaders, educators, innovators or creators
  • Engage with the SEMA community in a meaningful, high‑energy environment


If your organization would benefit from increased visibility, collaborative activation space, and the support of a vibrant network of industry women, we encourage you to apply to be part of the 2026 SBN booth.
 

This November, join us at the SBN booth, whether as a partner or attendee, and help us create a space where women connect, grow, lead and get inspired.
 

Apply or learn more 2026 booth partnership opportunities or apply
 

To learn more about SBN, visit www.sema.org/sbn.  

Tue, 04/07/2026 - 09:49

By Ashley Reyes

HRIA South City Rods graphic.

 

The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) named South City Rod and Custom as the council's newest spotlight member.  

Get to know their story in the SEMA News interview with South City Rod and Custom's owner, Bill Ganahl, below.
 

SEMA News: When was your company founded?

Bill Ganahl: I started as a very small shop in 2007. We went full-time and moved to Hayward, California, in 2013.
 

SN: Tell us about your business now in 2026 and what you're focused on?

BG: We just doubled our space and are opening a service side of the business where we do service work, small jobs/repair, full detailing services and concierge storage. This is all in addition to the full builds that we will continue to do.
 

SN: What are your thoughts on the popularity of the hot rod industry around the world?

BG: While the years and styles of the cars that are being built are continually changing, the market for custom cars has never been bigger. People are building more today than ever, and the price and quality of the builds has skyrocketed over the past two decades. In my almost 25 years in business, I have never once been worried about having work to do. In fact, our problem is finding qualified employees to keep up with all the demand!
 

SN: What is something most people don't know about your shop?          

BG: Many of us here are multi-generational hot rodders. Donny who has worked here for over a decade, his dad was a hot rodder and drag race photographer, and my dad was a prolific journalist in the industry, editor of Hot Rod, Street Rodder, Rod & Custom and the Rodder's Journal. We are die-hard hot rodders here, with cars in our DNA.
 

SN: Do you have advice for other hot rod businesses to be successful?  

BG: Be patient and do quality work even if it doesn't pay off right away. Your reputation will grow slowly, and anyone who does good work with integrity will rise above the rest over time. I have been doing this for decades now and it's taken a very long time to gain a reputation as a good high-end shop, but it all pays off with time and dedication.
 

Fill out a HRIA member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the hot rod industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on HRIA's social media, SEMA News and future HRIA-member updates. 

Mon, 04/06/2026 - 10:58

By Ashley Reyes

Graphic for the SEMA and TORA/ORBA Government affairs webinar that shows a Jeep off-roading in the desert.

 

Last year, SEMA announced its acquisition of the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA), an organization dedicated to representing businesses and professionals in the off-road and powersports industries–including motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides and snowmobiles. The move strengthened SEMA's commitment to protecting motorized access to public lands and supporting the businesses that serve the enthusiast community.
 

To help members understand what this acquisition means specifically for the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) community, TORA and SEMA's Government Affairs team will host an informational webinar on Tuesday, April 14 at 10 a.m. PDT/1 p.m. EDT via Zoom.
 

TORA works closely with SEMA's Government Affairs team to provide industry expertise and help shape policies that impact the truck and off-road industry. The session will outline how the acquisition of ORBA enhances responsible land use advocacy efforts, expands resources available to members and reinforces the association's ability to defend the industry at the federal, state and local levels.
 

Register to ensure you're informed, engaged and prepared as SEMA and TORA continue strengthening advocacy efforts on behalf of the industry.

 

Register eNews button.

 

Thu, 04/02/2026 - 22:19

By SEMA News Editors

Aerial view image of the Las Vegas Strip.

 

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with several airlines to offer exclusive discounts for attendees heading to the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, in Las Vegas.

With these deals from exclusive SEMA Show partners--detailed below--attendees can take advantage of airfare savings while planning their trip to the industry's premier automotive aftermarket event.

 

Airline Discount Codes for 2026 SEMA Show Attendees

All codes are valid for travel dates October 27 through November 9, 2026.

Can't view the table? Scroll to the bottom of it for the text-only details.

AIRLINE DISCOUNT CODE PHONE WEBSITE
Alaska Airlines 7% off published fares CMO943 800-445-4435 (fee applies to phone reservations) Click here to visit alaskaair.com.
United Airlines 2%, 5%, or 7% discounts* ZS5W757550 800-426-1122** Click here to book on the United website.
Delta Air Lines 3%, 5%, or 8% discounts* NY4K4 1-800-328-1111*** Click here to book on the Delta Air Lines website.

 

 

Alaska Airlines
7% off published fares 
October 27 - November 9, 2026 
CMO943
1-800-445-4435 (fee applies to phone reservations)
alaskaair.com

 

United Airlines
2%, 5%, or 7% discounts*
October 27 - November 9, 2026
ZS5W757550
(800) 426-1122**
Click here to book on the United website.

 

Delta Air Lines
3%, 5%, or 8% discounts*
October 27 - November 9, 2026
NY4K4
(800) 328-1111***
Click here to book on the Delta Air Lines website.

 

Don't forget to book your hotel through the SEMA Show's official provider, onPeak, to secure the best rates, flexible booking options and rewards points. Skipping the official block could mean leaving money--and perks like MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy rewards points--on the table, so lock in your room early to make the most of your 2026 SEMA Show experience. Book here or click the button below:

A red button with the text "BOOK HERE."

 

*Depending on fare class, applicable in most regions.
 

**United Airlines' Meetings Reservation Desk from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday (closed for major U.S. holidays) at 800-426-1122 for booking assistance. Booking fees are waived for United Meetings reservations. International customers may contact their local United® Reservation Desk.
 

***You may also call Delta Meeting Network® at 800-328-1111, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code NY4K4. Please note there is no service fee for reservations booked and ticketed via the Delta Airlines' reservation 800 number.

 

Thu, 04/02/2026 - 14:14

By SEMA News Editors

 

IHRA Acquires Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School

A graphic featuring the IHRA logo.

 

The IHRA has acquired Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School, the organization announced.

 

For more than four decades, Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School has delivered instruction to drag racers around the world. Its alumni include national event-winning drivers in both Professional and Sportsman categories, with more than 25,000 graduates having completed the school's renowned programs.

 

The school will continue to operate with the same staff, curriculum, equipment and instructors, including Frank Hawley, under IHRA ownership.

 

"When I met [IHRA Owner] Darryl Cuttell, I was very impressed with his ambitious vision to grow the popularity of motorsports around the world," said Hawley. "Darryl is working to coalesce motorsports entertainment with other traditional forms of entertainment at IHRA facilities. Our industry has been looking for leadership like this, and we are ready to join in the mission. My entire life has been devoted to the sport of drag racing, and I can't think of a better way to continue the legacy of our school than under the ownership of the IHRA."

 

"Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School is one of the most important institutions our sport has ever known," said Cuttell. "This is not about changing what works—it's about protecting a legacy, investing in education and safety, and ensuring that racers at every level have access to the very best training in the world. IHRA is honored to carry this responsibility forward."

 

"Education is the foundation of safe, competitive, and sustainable racing," said IHRA President Leah Martin. "Frank Hawley's Drag Racing School represents the gold standard in driver development. By bringing the school into the IHRA family, we are reinforcing our commitment to racers --giving them the tools, training, and pathways they need to grow from grassroots competition to the highest levels of the sport."

 

Additional details regarding future programs and expanded offerings will be announced in the coming months.

 

National Hot Rod Reunion Name Returns to Beech Bend Event

An image of the National Hot Rod Reunion logo overtop a dragstrip.


NHRA's historic event at Beech Bend Raceway will head back to its roots, returning to the National Hot Rod Reunion name for its race on June 18-20, and further, celebrating the rich history and heritage of the event during NHRA's 75th Anniversary season.

 

Along with the name change, NHRA also announced that Broc Porter will spearhead running the event for the first time, expanding the relationship between the Wally Parks NHRA Motorsports Museum and Porter's Beech Bend Raceway. Porter and his wife, Rebecca, operate the track that has been in the family since 1984.

 

"This is an opportunity to build this race back to what it was when it first arrived in the early 2000s," Porter said. "This race helped put Beech Bend on the national map and has been a great event for us for many years. We want to see it continue and grow back into a prominent event that honors the legacy of both Beech Bend and NHRA Drag Racing."

 

The National Hot Rod Reunion marks the sixth event of the season in the NHRA Hot Rod Heritage Racing Series, which celebrates the thrilling action of nostalgia drag racing in a variety of classes. Proceeds from the event will benefit the NHRA Motorsports Museum in Pomona.

 

Porter is receiving guidance from Blake Bowser, who has spearheaded a resurgence at the NHRA's California Hot Rod Reunion featuring Nitro Revival while continuing to grow the legendary Good Vibrations March Meet.

 

The annual trip to Beech Bend Raceway has long been a popular stop for fans and race teams, and this year will be especially memorable, returning to the National Hot Rod Reunion name during NHRA's milestone year.

 

The National Hot Rod Reunion features three days of nostalgia racing, hot rods, show cars and a swap meet at a historic facility steeped in drag racing history.

 

The event also includes a show and shine car show and popular Cacklefests throughout the weekend, plus much more. On the track, fans will be thrilled by some of the best nostalgia racing in the country, with nostalgia Top Fuel dragsters offering a memorable dose of nitro-burning action at more than 240 mph.

 

Drivers will be competing for event wins, with eliminations on Sunday culminating a weekend that will feature a full lineup of nostalgia competitions, exhibitions, fan experiences, tributes and a festival-like atmosphere that pays tribute to the legends and pioneers of NHRA Drag Racing.

 

"This is great for the long-term outlook of this event," said Jason Galvin, NHRA Sportsman Manager. "Broc and Rebecca operate a world-class facility. It's located in the hot-rodding hotbed of America and, obviously, the 75th anniversary tie-in sets this up to be a booming resurgence for the Hot Rod Reunion brand and a great weekend for the NHRA Museum as well."

 

Graphic courtesy of NHRA 

 

Formula DRIFT Signs Exclusive Broadcast Deal With RACER Network

Image of the RACER Network seen on digital devices.

 

Formula DRIFT and motorsports media platform RACER have expanded their relationship with a new media distribution agreement that includes new live programming on RACER Network, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, channelization of FD coverage across the RACER digital suite, the addition of PROSPEC livestreaming and a robust athlete incentive program.

 

The multi-year agreement will see all Formula DRIFT live competitions, including PRO and PROSPEC Championship classes, available worldwide exclusively on RACER and FD platforms. Seeding, Qualifying and early round competition will be available for free on the RACER+ app and on RACER's FAST channel, which reaches 400 million devices in North America, including Samsung, Roku, Amazon and more.

 

As an added value to the fans, FD and RACER have collaborated on a new pre-race show tentatively called RACER GridWalk. It will feature intimate driver interviews live from the Hot Pit during final practice before Top 32 Competition. This programming will kick off the cable TV broadcasts on RACER Network and be live on the RACER+ app, as well as via the RACER+ player on the FD website. The highlight of each FD weekend, the PRO Championship Top 16 Competition heats, will be available free exclusively on RACER Network--which reaches more than 25 million households--on the RACER+ App, and via the RACER+ player on the FD website.

 

"This is the first time the popular live stream from FD has done a deal of this kind," said Ryan Sage, president of Formula DRIFT. "We've constructed a unique and monumental deal with RACER; Not only can we leverage our existing audience to show the value of our product, but RACER is adding a massive layer of distribution and support on top of our efforts. So, it's only fitting that we harness our collective power and efforts to bring the Top 16 to RACER Network properties, exclusively, for the first time."

 

Got racing industry news? Releasing a new product? Contact editors@performanceracing.com. Read more racing industry news on performanceracing.com/industry-news. 

Thu, 04/02/2026 - 14:03

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

 

Retouched: The BMW M5 Receives a Facelift

 

An image of the BMW M5 sedan.

 

Originally spied with a decidedly Neue Klasse frontend, the '28 model-year BMW M5 facelift has reverted to a more conventional aesthetic, with only a hint of Neue Klasse design remaining. Pictured in both sedan and Touring configurations, the mid-cycle refresh debuts slimmer headlight clusters and kidney grilles.

 

An image of the BMW M5 sedan.

 

Emphasizing width, the new frontend also integrates a revised lower fascia with multiple vertical air intake elements. Both prototypes shown here also feature quad exhaust tips peeking through a resculpted bumper. New taillights are expected as well, and similar to the front units, the signature lighting emphasizes width.

 

Given the extensive interior camouflage, the Bavarian automaker is likely adapting the iX3’s infotainment system and Panoramic Vision setup for internal combustion models. Panoramic Vision is a projection system that uses the full width of the lower windshield to create a digital display space for both the driver and front passenger.

 

BMW Operating System X with Panoramic Vision is also expected to eliminate the iDrive controller in favor of a voice- and touch-first interface, along with more advanced steering wheel controls. The interior redesign should also include a larger, better-integrated central touchscreen, along with an optional 3D head-up display. An optional passenger display is also rumored.

 

An image of the BMW M5 Touring.

 

Beyond the tech-heavy updates, the interior is expected to feature more premium materials and trim. Preliminary information suggests that production of the M5 Touring will continue through mid-2032 with V8 power. For the first model year of the facelift, new exterior colors are also reportedly planned.

 

S68 is BMW's codename for the 4.4-L engine powering the M5 Sedan and M5 Touring, an engine that recently lost a small amount of output in preparation for Euro 7 emissions regulations. The S68 used in U.S.-market vehicles has not lost any power. In Europe, however, BMW M has introduced updated electric drive and battery software to compensate for the reduced internal combustion output. The G90 sedan and G99 Touring produce a combined 717 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque in current form, with BMW claiming a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds. When properly equipped, both models can reach a top speed of 189 mph.

 

An image of the BMW M5 Touring.

 

Minor Facelift Outside, Modern Tech Under the Metal: The '26 Audi Q4 Facelift

 

An image of the Audi Q4.

 

The Audi Q4 facelift has been a long time coming, and photographers have finally captured this premium electric SUV completely uncamouflaged. While the exterior updates are noticeable, they are not the only changes.

 

Look closely: while the shape of the headlights remains the same, the internal design has been updated. Decals attempt to conceal the details, but the units now feature parallel horizontal LED daytime running light bars. Positioned below them are the low- and high-beam headlights.

 

Audi's designers have also covered the grille, which is expected to feature a new mesh pattern similar to that of the Q6 e-tron. The front bumper has also been revised with a cleaner design, retaining the license plate in the center and incorporating a new honeycomb mesh in the lower air intake.

 

At the rear, the Q4 will receive updated taillight graphics and a revised bumper design. The Q4 already features an advanced cockpit, so unless there is a surprise, it is not expected to adopt a large, curved digital display.

 

Despite the addition of new comfort and safety features, increased battery capacity and more powerful onboard chargers to reduce charging times, the facelifted 2026 Audi Q4 is expected to further challenge Tesla’s Model X. With relatively minor exterior updates, Audi is focusing on a comprehensive package of improvements that will also extend to the sportier Q4 Sportback. Both variants are expected to arrive at dealerships in mid-2026.

 

An image of an Audi Q4.

 

Thu, 04/02/2026 - 13:06

By SEMA News Editors

 

A graphic image of the event logo.

 

SEMA and PRI will support the reception at the Road Racing Drivers Club (RRDC) Evening with Derek Bell MBE presented by Firestone on April 16, at the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach. This is the RRDC's 16th banquet honoring auto racing's most influential leaders. 

"We are pleased to have... SEMA/PRI returning this year to sponsor the reception at the RRDC Evening with Derek Bell MBE presented by Firestone," said RRDC President Bobby Rahal. "Their support will help benefit the RRDC's longtime initiatives, and we are grateful for their support."

Yaamava' Resort and Casino at San Manuel is also supporting the event.

This year's gala will be held at the Westin Long Beach Hotel at 333 E. Ocean Blvd., in advance of the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, the fifth race of the 2026 NTT INDYCAR SERIES season. It will honor Derek Bell MBE, whose racing career is one of the most successful, diverse and wide-ranging of any British racing driver. Bell is best-known for winning the Le Mans 24 Hours five times, the Daytona 24 Hours three times and the World Sports Car Championship twice.

Proceeds of the dinner will benefit The Mark Donohue Foundation, which supports the RRDC's SAFEisFAST initiative. Tickets may be purchased on the RRDC web site rrdc.org/events. The event is open to the public. This event is expected to sell out, so early reservations are recommended.

The RRDC was formed in 1952 as a way to give champion drivers a say in their sport, particularly in the areas of safety, and has evolved to serve the future of road racing by mentoring new drivers on both amateur and professional levels. The Club's membership includes leading industry professionals, race officials and motorsports journalists, in addition to prominent racing names.

In 2011, the RRDC launched a free online training seminar--SAFEisFAST.com--featuring RRDC members and other industry experts in high-quality videos covering subjects from physical and mental preparation to driving techniques, driver safety to car setup and sponsorship. The videos are updated regularly. Each week, a professional from the world of motor racing answers readers' questions on the site in a feature called 'Ask a Pro.'