Best Exhaust System (Review) 2020 – Top 10 Picks and Complete Guide

An efficient exhaust system always enhances the performance of an automobile. With so many options available, it is never easy to find the best exhaust system. This confusion can lead a person to purchase the wrong one for their vehicle.

In order to help you avoid confusion and invest in an exhaust system that not only performs efficiently but is a treat to your ears as well, we are presenting you with the comprehensive review of 10 best exhaust systems of the present time.

Best Exhaust System Choice in 2020

Our best choice for the year 2019 is Invidia (HS12SSTGTT) N1 Single Layer Cat-Back Exhaust System with Titanium Tip. This exhaust system crafted with high-quality stainless steel is a unique combination of power, loudness, and affordable price. Its tip layered with titanium helps in withstanding the heat and because of this, it ranks quite high in the list of performance exhaust systems.

Once installed in your vehicle, it immediately shows improvement in efficiency and sound. Not only this, it improves the performance of your vehicle as well. If you are the owner of a Scion FR-S or Subaru BR-Z, enhance its sporty look with this exhaust system from Invidia.

Comparison Table of Best Exhaust System

Our 10 Picks of Best Exhaust System

An exhaust system is one of the most responsible parts of a vehicle as its major job is to move dangerous gases out of your vehicle. So, getting the right one for your vehicle is always critical. Our below-mentioned picks are an effort to help you find and purchase the best exhaust system.

1. Invidia (HS12SSTGTT) N1 Exhaust System – High on Performance and Looks

The exhaust system at the first position in our list is Invidia (HS12SSTGTT) N1 Single Layer Cat-Back Exhaust System with Titanium Tip. This exhaust system crafted with high-quality stainless steel is a unique combination of power, loudness, and affordable price. Its tip layered with titanium helps in withstanding the heat and because of this, it ranks quite high on the list of performance exhaust systems.

In order to reduce the backpressure and maximize the exhaust flow, each Invidia exhaust system contains mandrel-bent steel piping. This exhaust system comes with minimum bends because it helps in reducing the level of turbulence at the time of acceleration. This way the engine of your vehicle puffs out the exhaust gases with very few restrictions.

Once installed in your vehicle, it immediately shows improvement in efficiency and sound. Not only this, it improves the performance of your vehicle as well. Invidia has engineered this exhaust system to produce strong power gains and a surge in the horsepower as well as torque. If you are the owner of a Scion FR-S or Subaru BR-Z, enhance its sporty look with this exhaust system from Invidia.

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Bottom Line
Invidia, in the form of N1 Single Layer Cat-Back Exhaust System, is offering a great balance of performance and price for all motorsport lovers. If you want to squeeze out little more performance along with superb sound from your vehicle, go for it. This is the best exhaust system.

1. MagnaFlow 15155 Exhaust System – Made to perform excellently for years

MagnaFlow is considered a leader amongst all exhaust system brands. All their products are manufactured in the United States, so you don’t need to worry about quality. The straight-through design of every MagnaFlow muffler, which reduces the exhaust back power, is the major feature of MagnaFlow exhaust systems. When the RPMs are higher, you get extra power.

In the automobile world, a common practice is to use stainless steel for crafting important parts. This exhaust system is completely made from tough stainless steel that does not allow it to rust or corrode. This implies your MagnaFlow exhaust is made to serve you for a longer span of time. When it comes to functioning, this system helps in consistently maintaining ideal temperature and reduces vibrations as well as harsh noises. And, all this is possible because of its necessary mufflers.

After installing this exhaust system in your vehicle, you will notice a slight improvement in its performance because the efficiency of the motor increases marginally when this is fitted. A great thing with MagnaFlow exhaust systems is that most of them come with a lifetime warranty. Yes, this one too.

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Bottom Line
If you are looking for a high-performing exhaust system that produces excellent sound, end your search here because MagnaFlow 15155 helps in easy and quick evacuation of fumes from your vehicle’s engine. This exhaust system works perfectly not only in small cars but in SUVs and heavy-duty trucks as well. In short, it performs as per your expectations.

2. MagnaFlow 15160 Exhaust Kit – A black powder coated gem for your vehicle.

The second place in our list is also secured by a MagnaFlow exhaust system and its model no. is 15160. MagnaFlow is not a new name in the world of exhaust systems. Power, performance, and sound are the things people usually focus on while investing in the best exhaust system. Fortunately, most exhaust systems from MagnaFlow excel in them.

This large exhaust system delivers deep sound and powerful performance when required. Black powder coating gives it a smart sleek look and extra protection. It can bear heat up to 1,000o F and more than 1,000 hours of salt fog. Also, it doesn’t corrode and remain protected from humidity. Most MagnaFlow exhaust systems serve you for years, this is not an exception.

It has many features which help in performing excellently but the one that makes it different from others is the bolt-on installation. It is designed to effortlessly fit your vehicle. Installing it becomes really easy with clear instructions and imagery provided with this exhaust system. Moreover, it comes with a lifetime warranty (like many other MagnaFlow products). With it, you are never at the losing side.

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Bottom Line
If you are the owner of a Jeep or some other similar vehicle, MagnaFlow 15160 exhaust system will give it a new life. With double exhaust tips and black finish, this is a true upgrade to the exhaust system currently installed in your vehicle. However, if you are looking for an exhaust system that produces aggressive sound, try some other model. Note that this is made to make your vehicle sound nicer, not louder.

3. MBRP S6004PLM Down Pipe Off-Road Exhaust – Focus on Performance

The next on our list is MBRP S6004PLM exhaust system which is considered as one of the best exhaust sound producing single vent exhaust system. It is made to fit almost any truck and the best thing is that it doesn’t put extra load on your vehicle because this exhaust system is made up of high-quality aluminized steel. Further, this construction prevents it from corroding and helps in maintaining the attractive silver color and exclusive mirror sheen.

Most exhaust systems in the market rely upon mufflers to produce a good sound but it doesn’t. Yes, it comes without mufflers. It won’t be wrong to categorize this model as the loudest exhaust system in the market. The unavailability of mufflers not only make it unique but increases its performance as well. Whether it is about air inflow or outflow of toxic burnt gases, it does the job perfectly. However, this enhances the fuel economy by 1 to 2 mpg.

Though its piping system (single sided) is designed to minimize the noise emerging from this exhaust system, it helps more in decreasing the energy consumption rate of your vehicle which further helps in increasing your savings. When it comes to the installation of this exhaust system, you will require some usual hand tools to finish the job.

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Bottom Line
If the performance and life of an exhaust system matter the most to you, go for this exhaust system because it helps in reducing or eliminating any damages to the engine and keeping the lubricants fresh. It implies the focus of this exhaust system from MBRP is always on increasing the performance and engine life.

4. MBRP S6212PLM Turbo Back Exhaust System – Value for money performance exhaust system

In your quest to find the best exhaust system, we want to introduce you to MBRP S6212PLM which is at the fourth position in our list. The exhaust systems from MBRP are famous for performance and this is not an exception. With S6212PLM, extra horsepower up to 18HP and extra torque up to 28 ft./lb. is always a possibility.

It not only helps in increasing the pulling power but also improves the throttle response of your truck. An engine works efficiently when it gets a lot of cool and clean air and this happens when the hot air moves out easily. With no mufflers, mandrel bent tubing, and minimum angle bents, this increases the efficiency of your vehicle’s engine.

The installation of this exhaust system is quite easy. Having a no weld design and the availability of bolt-on hangers makes it quite easy to install. MBRP S6212PLM takes just 1-2 hours to fit your vehicle. Moreover, you don’t need to buy clamps or other parts from the market, they come with it. The most amazing thing is that it doesn’t consider the configuration or model of your truck, it fits all.

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Bottom Line
When you purchase an exhaust system, the expectations are always high. MBRP S6212PLM is an exhaust system that not only performs well but also increases the efficiency of your vehicle’s engine. Above all, it is a master in producing the expected sound when required. So, if you value performance, go for MBRP exhaust systems such as S6212PLM.

5. BORLA 140595 S-Type Exhaust System – Crafted to complete your vehicle

Borla exhaust is quite a common name but 140595 S-Type Cat-back exhaust system is not on our list just because of popularity, the credit goes to its qualities/features. When you fit this exhaust system in your Subaru WRX or another compatible vehicle, you get excellent sound and any thoughts of installing other kinds of exhaust system vanish from your mind.

T-304 stainless steel, aerospace-grade, is used to craft it which not only makes it durable but also prevents it from rust and corrosion. Once purchased, it serves you for years. With mandrel bent tubing the air flows freely from it and makes sure that extra back-pressure, blockages, and kinks never trouble you.

It completes your vehicle and makes it outshine the crowd. Coming to the installation of a Borla exhaust system, it is hassle-free. You just need to tighten the metallic O-rings to fit this in your car. Note that all relevant clamps, hardware, and connectors required for its easy installation are included in the package. The most amazing thing with this Borla exhaust system is that its installation is legal in all the 50 states.

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Bottom Line
If you own a Subaru WRX, don’t think much and just install it in your car. Borla exhaust system makes your car more aggressive and helps it to produce great sound. If you want to invest in an exhaust system that is a combination of power, performance, efficiency, and great sound, we suggest going for it.

6. Borla 11795 Rear Section Exhaust System – The durable performer

The next one in our list is also a Borla exhaust system and it is specially made to fit Corolla S/ XRS. Since Borla is a common name in the world of exhaust systems, we will start directly with the features. If your expectations from an exhaust system include throaty sound, increased efficiency of your vehicle’s engine, and satisfaction for a long time, it won’t disappoint you.

It is seen that factory-fitted system of a Corolla S/ XRS doesn’t produce a growling/ sportier/ impressive sound but when you replace that with a Borla 11795, you get the kind of sound your vehicle deserves. Moreover, it increases the resale value of your car. Like all other Borla exhaust systems, this one is also made from T-304 (aerospace grade) stainless steel.

Installing it is quite easy and once it is installed on your vehicle, you can immediately witness the improved sound and motor efficiency. If you observe technically, you’ll see a little improvement in the performance also. This happens because it further simplifies the inflow and outflow of air which helps the motor run more effectively than before.

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Bottom Line
Borla 11795 is a perfect fit for your Corolla S/ XRS. When you choose it over the factory-fitted exhaust system, you not only experience great sound but increased efficiency of the engine as well. The surprising thing is that you get all this for many years. Most exhaust systems are difficult to install but for this, you require only a wrench and bolts.

7. MBRP S4200409 Outlet Exhaust System – Aggressive Sound and Great Performance

When it comes to finding the best exhaust system, MBRP exhaust systems can’t be avoided. That’s why we have included MBRP S4200409 in our list. MBRP exhaust systems are famous for making your rides easy, this one is not an exception.

It’s time to get rid of your power-consuming OEM exhaust system and look forward to a better and efficient exhaust system from MBRP. The presence of mandrel bent tubing helps in reducing backpressure, turbulence, and restrictions. So, you can expect swift inflow as well as outflow. The sound it produces is great but quite loud, so you can classify it as the loudest exhaust system.

It is made up of 16-gauge aluminized steel and reflects chrome steel finish. This simply means it won’t corrode or rust and as a result, will last long. Installing it is quite easy, just weld the hangers as per your choice and get ready for a new experience. After installing this exhaust system, get ready for noteworthy gains in efficiency, torque, and horsepower.

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Bottom Line
If you are a sports enthusiast and looking for an exhaust system that produces aggressive rumble sound without much noise, MBRP S4200409 is for you. This exhaust system allows swift inflow and outflow of air and harmful gases/ toxins. As it is fabricated with 16-gauge aluminized steel, you can expect this exhaust system to serve you for years.

8. Flowmaster 817674 American Thunder 409S – The Trustworthy

This exhaust system justifies its name, Flowmaster. It maintains the easy inflow of air to the engine and swift outflow of hot gases and toxins. This is going to disappoint everyone searching for the loudest exhaust system. However, it can still be categorized as the best exhaust system because of its built and efficiency.

The company has made it from 409 stainless steel and given a polished finish. It means you don’t need to worry about corrosion, rust, and its life. This model comes with large pipes allowing your vehicle’s motor to easily remove fumes and you know that when the heat is swiftly evacuated, the efficiency of an engine increases.

One of the most attractive things of this exhaust system is the lifetime warranty from the manufacturer. Installing this exhaust system is a bit difficult in comparison to other exhaust systems in the market. In order to make it perfectly fit your vehicle, you should trim it from some important places. It is better to take help of some professional.

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Bottom Line
Made in America to win the trust of people. Yes, if you own a Jeep Wrangler or any other similar vehicle, this will perfectly fit them. However, if you are searching for the loudest exhaust system, this is not the one. The company has made it to perform, so don’t expect any kind of aggressive sound from it.

9. DynoMax 39528 Stainless Steel Exhaust – The Power Booster

DynoMax 39528 is designed specially to enhance your vehicle’s power potential. It is equipped with the fiberglass matting technology which absorbs the surplus interior resonance and at the same time, it maintains a rich performance tone. Made up of 409 stainless steel, this exhaust system features a mandrel-bent tubing for smooth inflow and outflow. In order to make it look attractive and increase its life, the company has given it a chrome finish.

You can call DynoMax 39528 as the best exhaust system because it easily transforms the whole OEM exhaust system of your vehicle. It’s sound, which is on a louder side, is one of the most liked features. This is possible because of super turbo mufflers present in it. These mufflers also help in increasing the efficiency of your vehicle’s engine.

The most amazing thing with DynoMax is that it comes with a limited lifetime warranty and an exclusive Performance and Sound Guarantee of 90 days. This is what increased our trust in this brand. The price of this exhaust system makes it quite affordable.

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Bottom Line
DynoMax 39528 is a powerful and affordable exhaust system that comes with many great features. It is a rare combination of features and performance. If you are the owner of a Jeep Wrangler launched anytime between 2007 – 2018 and want to change its exhaust system, remember the best exhaust system for your vehicle is DynoMax 39528.

10. Performance Exhaust Muffler System Kit – A perfect fit for your Chevrolet Silverado 1500

The tenth position in our list is secured by Performance Exhaust System which is designed specifically for Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and similar vehicles. With a stainless-steel body, this exhaust system has efficient mufflers which improve the exhaust flow. Moreover, when this exhaust system is installed in your car, expect a better fuel economy all the time.

This exhaust system evades the fear of corrosion and rust, promising durability and usage for a long time. It contains mandrel bent tubes that reduce reduction so that the outflow speed increases. This is a complete welded system and once installed, the Performance exhaust system makes your vehicle look even more stylish. If you have installed it in Silverado 1500 or other similar models and someday, you feel the need to repair it, you can easily unscrew and again screw it after the repair.

Coming to the sound, it produces throaty, rich, and deep sound. This is possible because the efficient mufflers which ensure high performance and great sound. The design of this exhaust system assists in the exhaust system’s easy lubrication.

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Bottom Line
Though it has all qualities of the best exhaust system, the only disappointing thing we found is its limited compatibility. If you own a Silverado 1500, this is the best exhaust system for it because it is designed to easily install on this car. Other models are also supported by this Performance 3.00” Cat-Back exhaust system but for them, we recommend professional installation.

Read Also: Best Exhaust System Review

Buying Guide: Things to consider when buying an exhaust system

There are many exhaust systems in the market and each one is tagged as the best exhaust system by different experts or different websites. In such a situation, how to find one best suitable for your vehicle becomes the biggest concern.

In order to help you avoid incompatible exhaust systems and end up with the perfect one, below are a few things you should consider while buying an exhaust system.

Types of Exhaust Systems

Before investing in an exhaust system, it is very important to understand the types of exhaust systems. These are the following three types of exhaust systems:

1. Cat-Back

This kind of exhaust system is usually featured with a special kind of muffler and is designed with either a long or short pipe, depending upon your vehicle’s model. A cat-back exhaust system is often considered advantageous because, despite the competitive price, it performs excellently. This is also the reason a cat-back system is liked equally by experts as well as beginners.

2. Axel-Back

Talking about the looks, this exhaust system looks no different from a conventional factory-fitted system. But, this doesn’t mean it functions in a similar manner. When it comes to efficiency, we can’t say this type of exhaust systems are the most efficient ones in the market and liked somewhat because of the deep sound produced by them. However, they are priced lower and this attracts customers the most.

3. Header-Back

These exhaust systems are usually a single piece having the header collector as the starting point and tailpipes as the endpoint. This kind of exhaust system is a complete system as it replaces almost all components of your vehicle’s factory fitted system. They are most loved because of the simple design and easy installation.

The Material

The next thing you should consider is the material used to make the exhaust system as it gives you an idea about its life. Most exhaust systems are made of two types of materials – stainless steel and mild steel.

An exhaust system made of stainless steel promises durability and prevention from rust and corrosion. It looks far better than its other counterpart. Also, stainless steel being an expensive material adds value to it.

On the other hand, an exhaust system made from mild steel is much affordable and attracts masses. But, people buying such an exhaust system can’t remain satisfied and happy for a long time as it soon starts attracting rust and corroding.

The Configuration

You will find exhaust systems with a single or double exhaust. Out of the two, systems with a single exhaust are most preferred because they produce deeper sound, have only one exhaust pipe, and also single modular.

You can expect but don’t get excellent performance by systems with dual exhaust, they mostly enhance the looks of your vehicle. However, double exhaust systems are usually the first choice of car enthusiasts. The way it changes the looks of their car overpowers the negligible improvement in performance.

The Built

Another thing you should consider while purchasing the best exhaust system for your vehicle is its built. The exhaust system you get from the car manufacturer is very different from the aftermarket exhaust systems. The factory-fitted exhaust systems usually have pipes with a small diameter which somehow restricts the proper inflow and outflow.

Another difference you’ll find is the sound produced, the aftermarket exhaust systems produce a rich and deeper sound. Besides this, bends also play an important role in the performance of an exhaust system. You’ll find the aftermarket exhaust systems feature two different kinds of bends:

1. Mandrel Bends

Mandrel bends offer superior performance because they vibrate less and are durable. Here, an adaptable rod is fixed inside the main pipe for absorbing vibrations and providing more rigidity. Exhaust systems with a mandrel bend are considered superior performer.

2. Crush Bends

The exhaust systems with crush bends are usually cheaper because the technique used in bending the exhaust pipe is the same used in bending the original one produced in the factory. The bending doesn’t take time and doesn’t cost much so the final price of exhaust systems with crush bends is also less. In comparison to the mandrel bends, crush bends vibrate more. So, we can say these are a low performer.

Besides these primary factors, Brand, Style, and Budget are the secondary factors you should consider while purchasing an exhaust system.

Frequently Asked Questions

While purchasing an exhaust system for your vehicle, a lot of questions emerge in your mind and they keep disturbing until you get their answers. Also, the answers to those questions help in ending your search for the best exhaust system. Below 10 such most frequently asked questions are answered:

1. What are the common components of an Exhaust System?
Whether the exhaust system is OEM or aftermarket, the following are its main components:

• Catalytic Converter
• Exhaust Manifold(s)
• Muffler(s)
• Exhaust pipe
• Tailpipe(s)
• Exhaust tip(s)

2. What is the primary difference between a cat back system and muffler back system?
In a cat back system, the catalytic converter setup remains untouched because of legal issues. Only the muffler, connector pipe, and tailpipe are changed Whereas in a muffler back system, only the tailpipe and muffler are changed.

3. While changing an exhaust system, should one change the whole exhaust system?
There is no need to change the whole exhaust system. You can replace or change the part you wish to.

4. Which brand’s exhaust system is best?
The requirements of every customer are different and numerous exhaust systems are available in the market. Without understanding the customer’s requirements, budget, and without knowing the make and model of the vehicle, it is very difficult to suggest one.

5. How much should I spend to install an average exhaust system in my vehicle?
It completely depends upon your budget but we think for installing an average exhaust system, one should broadly spend between $250 – $350.

6. Can I expect a gain in the horsepower?
Yes, you can expect a gain in the horsepower because the aftermarket exhaust systems have broad pipes which simplifies the inflow and outflow processes, thus increasing the efficiency.

7. Why some exhaust systems cost more?
The cost of an exhaust system depends upon a number of factors. If it is made up of high-quality stainless steel, has a broad pipe, features good quality mufflers, and offers longer support and warranty, it will cost more.

8. Do all aftermarket exhaust systems produce great sound?
Most aftermarket exhaust systems produce different and deep sound but not every such system produces great sound. However, sound output plays an important role in deciding the cost of an exhaust system.

9. Do aftermarket exhaust systems void OE warranty?
No. If the mufflers and rear sections of your aftermarket exhaust system are categorized legal in all 50 states, OE warranty remains intact. For more details, contact your dealer or the exhaust system manufacturer.

10. Can my stainless-steel exhaust system keep shining always?
Yes, a shine like new is very much possible. There are some high-end polish/ cleaners available in the market which are safe and easily removes the dull oxide layers.

Wrapping Up

An exhaust system is one of the most important components of a vehicle. Every vehicle comes with a factory-fitted exhaust system but it fails to impress every owner and they start searching for an aftermarket exhaust system for their vehicle that not only improves the performance of your vehicle but also increases its resale value. It is better to do your own research to find the best exhaust system but if you remain busy, you can always rely upon our review of 10 best exhaust systems.