Best Performance Cat-Back Exhaust Systems of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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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

Flowmaster American Thunder 409S Cat-Back System Cover #TOP 1
Flowmaster American Thunder 409S Cat-Back System
ftb score rating icon 9.9
MBRP S5200AL Exhaust System Cover #TOP 2
MBRP S5200AL Exhaust System
ftb score rating icon 9.8
MagnaFlow 19071 Performance Cat-Back Exhaust Cover #TOP 3
MagnaFlow 19071 Performance Cat-Back Exhaust
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Performance Cat-Back Exhaust Systems

#TOP 1

Flowmaster American Thunder 409S Cat-Back System

817674
No Color
No Size
Flowmaster American Thunder 409S Cat-Back System Cover
Flowmaster 817674 American Thunder Cat-back Exhaust 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.

What We Like
Durable stainless steel construction
Provides maximum off-roading clearance
Patented Laminar Flow Technology for moderate sound
#TOP 2

MBRP S5200AL Exhaust System

S5200AL
Aluminized Steel
MBRP S5200AL Exhaust System Cover
MBRP S5200AL 3" Cat Back, Single Side Exhaust System (Aluminized Steel)

The MBRP Cat Back Exhaust is a high-performance exhaust system featuring a sleek stainless steel tip that enhances the look of your vehicle. It produces a deep, smooth exhaust sound that adds a touch of luxury to your driving experience. With easy installation using basic tools, you can enjoy improved fuel efficiency by 1-2 miles per gallon. Additionally, this system boosts both torque and horsepower, giving your vehicle added power and responsiveness on the road.

What We Like
Stylish Stainless Steel Tip
Enhanced Fuel Efficiency
Increased Power and Torque
#TOP 3

MagnaFlow 19071 Performance Cat-Back Exhaust

MagnaFlow 19071 Performance Cat-Back Exhaust Cover
MagnaFlow 19071 Large Performance Cat-Back Exhaust Kit

The MagnaFlow Cat-Back Exhaust is designed to enhance your vehicle's performance with its large, durable muffler system. It comes in a single package measuring about 57 inches long, making it easier to handle and install. Weighing 53 pounds, the exhaust kit is sturdy yet manageable for most vehicle upgrades. This system fits well into your exhaust category needs, offering a reliable solution to improve your car's sound and efficiency. If you're looking for a solid upgrade, this MagnaFlow exhaust offers a balance of size and weight that suits your performance goals.

What We Like
Durable muffler design
Manageable package size
Single complete kit
Performance-focused
#TOP 4

MBRP S5326AL Cat Back Exhaust System

S5326AL
Aluminum
Aluminized Steel
MBRP S5326AL Cat Back Exhaust System Cover
MBRP S5326AL 2.5" Cat Back, Single Side Exhaust System (Aluminized Steel)

The MBRP S5326AL Cat Back Exhaust System is a high-quality performance exhaust system designed specifically for the 2005-2015 Toyota Tacoma 4.0L V6, Access Cab, and Crew Cab models. This system is made from durable aluminized steel, ensuring long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion. With its 2.5" diameter, it provides improved exhaust flow, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. The single side exit design adds a sporty look to your vehicle while also enhancing the exhaust sound. Easy to install, this cat back exhaust system is a great upgrade for Tacoma owners looking to improve their vehicle's performance and style.

What We Like
Durable aluminized steel
Improved exhaust flow
Enhanced exhaust sound
#TOP 5

MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 16829

16829
Silver
No Size
MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 16829 Cover
MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 16829 - Street Series, Stainless Steel 3in Main Piping, Dual Split Rear Exit, Polished Finish 3.5in Exhaust Tip - American Muscle Performance Exhaust Kit

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.

What We Like
Easy bolt-on installation
Enhanced power and sound without sacrificing interior noise levels
Stainless steel construction ensures longevity
#TOP 6

MBRP S5014AL Exhaust System

S5014AL
Aluminized Steel
MBRP S5014AL Exhaust System Cover
MBRP S5014AL 3" Cat Back, Single Side Exhaust System (Aluminized Steel)

Enhance your vehicle with the MBRP Exhaust System. Crafted with a mirror polished T304 stainless steel tip, it adds a touch of elegance. Experience a deep, smooth exhaust sound that will turn heads. Easily install it using basic tools for convenience. Enjoy potential fuel savings of 1-2 mpg, making your drives more cost-effective. Feel the increased torque and horsepower, boosting your vehicle's performance.

What We Like
Elegant design
Rich exhaust sound
Fuel economy improvement
Easy installation
Performance enhancement
#TOP 7

Flowmaster 817706 Outlaw Extreme Kit

817706
Black
No Size
Flowmaster 817706 Outlaw Extreme Kit Cover
Flowmaster 817706 Outlaw Extreme Cat-Back Exhaust Kit 3 Inch 409 Stainless Steel Black Dump Turn Down Compatible with 2009-2013 Chevy Silverado GMC Sierra 1500 5.3L 143.5 157.5 Inch Wheelbases

Experience extreme sound and performance with the Flowmaster Outlaw Extreme Kit. This performance cat-back exhaust system is made of durable stainless steel construction, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion. The race-proven Outlaw muffler technology delivers a deep and aggressive sound that perfectly matches the extreme lifestyles of car enthusiasts. Whether you're on the track or on the street, this kit will give your vehicle a distinct and powerful roar. Made in the USA, the Flowmaster Outlaw Extreme Kit is a top choice for those seeking unparalleled performance and an unforgettable auditory experience.

What We Like
Stainless Steel Construction
Extreme Sound
Race Proven Muffler Technology
#TOP 8

MagnaFlow Street Series Cat-Back Exhaust for 2010-2014 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor

15366
Black
Large
MagnaFlow Street Series Cat-Back Exhaust for 2010-2014 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor Cover
MagnaFlow Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 15366 - Street Series, Stainless Steel 3in Main Piping, Dual Same Side Behind Passenger Rear Tire Exit, Black Coated 4in Exhaust Tip - F-150 Exhaust Kit

The MagnaFlow Street Series Exhaust enhances your Ford F-150 SVT Raptor’s performance by improving exhaust flow with mandrel-bent pipes and larger mufflers, giving you a powerful yet comfortable sound without being too loud. This cat-back system replaces the parts after the catalytic converter, boosting your truck’s power while staying legal in all 50 states. Installation is easy thanks to precise 3D scanning technology, ensuring a perfect fit without modifications. The exhaust is built from black-coated stainless steel, offering a sleek look and strong resistance against corrosion, so it lasts as long as your vehicle.

What We Like
Balanced sound level
Improved engine power
Easy bolt-on fit
Durable black-coated steel
#TOP 9

MBRP S5338BLK 3" Cat Back Exhaust System

S5338BLK
Black Coated
MBRP S5338BLK 3" Cat Back Exhaust System Cover
MBRP S5338BLK 3" Cat Back Exhaust System (Single Side Exit Black)

This exhaust system features a sleek black finish and mandrel bent 3" tubing that allows for optimal airflow. The easy bolt-on installation ensures a hassle-free upgrade to your vehicle's performance. The single side exit design gives your vehicle a bold and aggressive look. As part of the exhaust cat-back systems category, this system is a reliable and high-quality choice for car enthusiasts.

What We Like
Easy bolt-on installation
Mandrel bent 3" tubing for optimal airflow
Sleek black finish
Single side exit design for a bold and aggressive look
#TOP 10

MBRP S5510AL Cat Back Exhaust System

S5510AL
Aluminized Steel
Aluminized Steel
MBRP S5510AL Cat Back Exhaust System Cover
MBRP S5510AL Aluminized Single Side Cat Back Exhaust System

The MBRP S5510AL Cat Back Exhaust System is a high-quality exhaust system designed to enhance your vehicle's performance. With its mirror polished T304 stainless steel tip, it not only adds a sleek and stylish look to your vehicle, but also delivers a rich and mellow exhaust note that will turn heads. This exhaust system is easy to install with common hand tools, making it convenient for any car enthusiast. In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the MBRP S5510AL Cat Back Exhaust System can also improve your fuel economy by 1-2 mpg, saving you money at the pump. Furthermore, it boosts torque and horsepower, providing you with an exhilarating driving experience. Upgrade your vehicle with the MBRP Exhaust System and enjoy the benefits it brings.

What We Like
Sleek and stylish design
Easy installation
Improved fuel economy
Increased torque
Buying Guide Image

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.

Editor's Notes

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 5,628 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 $533.92.

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 Flowmaster, MBRP, MagnaFlow Exhaust Products. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

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.