Best Performance Cat-Back Exhaust Systems of 2025
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Performance cat-back exhaust systems are a popular upgrade for car enthusiasts looking to improve their engine's performance and sound. These systems replace the factory exhaust system from the catalytic converter back, allowing for increased exhaust flow and a more aggressive exhaust note. Performance cat-back exhaust systems are typically made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or titanium, and are designed to fit specific makes and models of vehicles. They can improve horsepower and torque, as well as fuel efficiency in some cases. Overall, a performance cat-back exhaust system is a great way to enhance the driving experience and add some personality to a car.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Performance Cat-Back Exhaust Systems
MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 16829
The MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 16829 - Street Series, Stainless Steel 3in Main Piping, Dual Split Rear Exit, Polished Finish 3.5in Exhaust Tip is designed to enhance power and exterior sound of your vehicle without sacrificing comfortable interior noise levels. Its fast-flowing mandrel bent pipes with larger mufflers reduce exhaust restriction and enable MagnaFlow performance tone. Stainless steel construction ensures longevity, and 3D scanning technology makes installation easy. Specifically designed for 1983-1992 Chevrolet Camaro and 1983-1992 Pontiac Firebird.
Borla Cat-Back Exhaust for Jetta GLI
The Borla Exhaust System enhances your 2012-2018 Volkswagen Jetta GLI with premium features. Made from T-304 stainless steel, it promises durability and resistance to rust, ensuring a long-lasting performance. The bolt-on installation makes it easy for you to set up, saving time and eliminating the need for professional help. With an all-welded construction, this system provides a stronger build that can withstand the rigors of driving. Plus, you’ll enjoy the classic BORLA sound, which adds a sporty touch to your vehicle’s performance.
Gibson Stainless Dual Split Rear Performance Cat-Back Exhaust
The Gibson Stainless Dual Split Rear Performance Cat-Back Exhaust System offers 2.25-inch stainless mandrel bent tubing, a baffled and chambered design with no internal packing, and a powerful deep tone. The exhaust system also includes a 4.0 inch, polished, T304 stainless, rolled, slash-cut tip that clamps on with an exit straight out the back.
MBRP S5259AL Exhaust System
The MBRP S5259AL Exhaust System is a high-quality performance upgrade for your vehicle. Made of 16 gauge aluminized steel, it offers great durability and a long lifespan. The system features welded on hangers and includes a 4" tip, providing a perfect fit for your vehicle. The Installer Series design offers a value price, without compromising on the quality of the components.
BORLA Performance Exhaust for Lancer Ralliart
The BORLA Exhaust System is designed for your 2009-2017 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, featuring high-quality T-304 stainless steel construction. This material ensures durability and resistance to corrosion, giving you a long-lasting performance upgrade. With a bolt-on installation, you can easily set it up without extensive modifications, saving you time and effort. The all-welded construction enhances strength and reliability, ensuring that your exhaust system can withstand rigorous use. Plus, you’ll enjoy the classic BORLA sound, which adds a sporty touch to your driving experience.
Gibson 65670 Cat-Back Exhaust System
The Gibson Cat-Back Exhaust offers a range of impressive features designed to enhance your vehicle's performance. With its 2.25-inch stainless steel tubing, this system ensures optimal exhaust flow, which can improve engine efficiency and power. The uniquely designed Gibson muffler provides a powerful and deep tone without the hassle of internal packing, giving you a robust sound. The polished, rolled, slash-cut tip not only looks great but also enhances the exhaust's aesthetics. Plus, with the exhaust exiting behind the rear tire, you can enjoy a clean look while benefiting from improved performance.
Flowmaster American Thunder 409S Cat-Back System
The Flowmaster American Thunder 409S Cat-Back System is made of stainless steel, which increases durability and longevity, while providing maximum off-roading clearance. The patented Laminar Flow Technology improves exhaust flow, resulting in a moderate sound. Additionally, the product comes with a lifetime limited warranty.
Borla Cat-Back Exhaust for Sequoia
The Borla Exhaust System is designed for the 2008-2022 Toyota Sequoia, featuring high-quality T-304 stainless steel for durability and a stylish look. Its bolt-on installation means you can easily upgrade your vehicle without complex modifications. The all-welded construction ensures a strong and reliable system that withstands the test of time. Plus, made in the USA, it delivers that classic Borla sound, enhancing your driving experience with a powerful and aggressive tone. With this exhaust, you can enjoy improved performance and a distinctive auditory presence on the road.
Borla Cat-Back Exhaust System for Mustang
The Borla Cat-Back Exhaust is designed specifically for the 2005-2009 Ford Mustang GT and Shelby GT500. Made from high-quality T-304 stainless steel, it ensures durability and resistance against rust, giving you peace of mind for years to come. The bolt-on installation makes it easy for you to upgrade your vehicle without the need for professional help. With its all-welded construction, you can expect a strong and reliable system that enhances performance. Plus, the no-drone guarantee means you can enjoy an aggressive sound without annoying vibrations inside your cabin.
MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 16788
The MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 16788 - Street Series is designed to enhance the power and exterior sound of the 2006-2010 Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis, without sacrificing comfortable interior noise levels. The fast-flowing mandrel bent pipes with larger or more straight-through mufflers reduce exhaust restriction and enable that MagnaFlow performance tone without garnering racecar levels of attention. It is a bolt-on installation with highly corrosion-resistant, stainless steel construction incorporating CNC precision robotic manufacturing for quality fitment and longevity. This exhaust system is 50-state legal and designed to optimize power based on the factory calibration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do cat-back exhaust systems improve performance?
Yes, cat-back exhaust systems are designed to improve both the performance and aesthetic of your vehicle. By enhancing the airflow and reducing resistance, a cat-back exhaust system can improve overall performance.
2. How much HP does a performance cat-back exhaust add?
A performance cat-back exhaust system can add up to 5 horsepower to your vehicle. Along with the horsepower increase, it also enhances the overall performance of your vehicle.
3. What does a cat-back performance exhaust system do?
A cat-back performance exhaust system improves airflow, reducing the workload on the engine and resulting in lower fuel consumption. This leads to improved vehicle miles per gallon (MPG) or fuel economy on both freeways and city roads.
4. Does a cat-back exhaust need a tune?
No, a cat-back exhaust system does not require an updated tune. It does not affect the aspiration of the engine, and the new parts are clear from any sensors or meters that the Engine Control Unit (ECU) may need to run the vehicle.
5. Can having a cat-back exhaust be bad for the engine?
Having a cat-back exhaust system can actually benefit the engine. It allows for better airflow and improved breathing, resulting in enhanced engine performance. However, it's important to choose the right size for optimal performance and avoid going too large, which can lead to a loss in torque, RPM, and horsepower.
6. Which is louder, cat-back or axle-back?
A cat-back exhaust system provides deep, exhilarating exhaust notes similar to those of an axle-back system. However, due to improved airflow, a cat-back exhaust system can be even louder and more aggressive.
7. Is a performance exhaust worth it?
Yes, a performance exhaust system is worth it as it improves the efficiency of your vehicle's exhaust system. By allowing the engine to breathe better and draw in more air with each cycle, it increases engine power and overall performance.
8. Does a cat-back exhaust make it louder?
A cat-back exhaust system can increase the volume and produce a more aggressive sound compared to stock parts. It is a popular choice for those seeking both increased sound and performance.
During our performance cat-back exhaust system research, we found 24 performance cat-back exhaust system products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 3,419 customer reviews through our big data system to write the performance cat-back exhaust systems list. We found that most customers choose performance cat-back exhaust systems with an average price of $887.34.
The performance cat-back exhaust systems are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of performance cat-back exhaust systems, including MagnaFlow, Borla, GIBSON, MBRP, Flowmaster. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.