Imagine the best WRX exhaust on a Subaru cruising on the highway. It is a beauty to behold for car lovers.
To begin with, the Subaru WRX is a high-value compact car that requires the best exhaust for the best performance and that distinct Subaru sounds.
Also, the exhaust is an important factor in determining the overall performance of a car. Besides being the duct or pipe for discharging the combustion waste smoke.
it also controls and regulates the noise from a car. Additionally, an exhaust improves both the fuel consumption and the general engine performance as well.
No doubt it is important to make a wise and informed decision when selecting the best exhaust for WRX. Before we dig deeper, let’s first examine the car Subaru WRX.
The car is proof of Subaru’s prowess in auto-mobile designs. Furthermore, it is a 4-wheel drive sport compact vehicle that was designed originally for rally events.
The Subaru WRX is a world rally champion that has won several events on the international stage.
Having such a machine in your possession will require that only the best parts should be used when the replacement comes to mind.
Now that you understand the kind of car you have, the question now is what is the best exhaust system brand for your Subaru WRX?
What is the best exhaust for Subaru WRX?
Borla and Invidia are the best exhaust for Subaru Impreza WRX. Although they are several other brands of exhaust systems that would make a good fit for the Subaru STI as well.
But Borla and Invidia stand out. The attributes and specifications of both Borla and Invidia surpass all other brands, thus making them and highly recommendable.
The sounds, performance, and even the ease of installation favor Borla and Invidia exhaust systems.
Why are Borla and Invidia the best exhausts for Subaru WRX?
Of all the exhaust systems highlighted in this article, Borla stood out for several reasons.
Firstly, the sound tone is unique, the ability to perfectly fit under the Subaru WRX, and is crafted from stainless steel of aircraft quality.
The Invidia exhaust on the other hand has an aggressive sound note but with reduced cabin noise and an efficient exhaust flow for increased engine performance.
Top 10 Best WRX Exhaust Review In 2022
01. BORLA 140595 S-Type- Best Exhaust for WRX
Highlighted Features
- Powerful and unique Borla sound
- A million-mile warranty
- CNC manufacture for accurate fit
- Multi-Core technology patent
- Straight-through technology patent
Borla exhaust has a remarkable powerful sound. It’s been compared as a sonic adrenaline rush.
It features an intoxicating concert of steel, gears, and also combustion that reverberates over the world’s speedways, deserts, and roads.
As a result, it has become the iconic soundtrack of high-performance motoring, having won more victory laps than any other brand.
As with all good vehicle designs, there’s a reason for the form.
The sound of an exhaust system, as any car fan knows, provides more than simply aural enjoyment. It serves as an interlink connecting the car and the driver as well.
Additionally, this exhaust creates a connection between humans and machines. The sound of the exhaust offers acoustic feedback of the rpm of an engine.
Thus, helping the driver make important decisions such as the timing of the gear selection and also throttle input for the rev-match shifting engines.
Engineers at Borla know this principle better than any other exhaust manufacturer.
The patented technology is combined with computer modeling, thorough prototyping, and powerful sound analysis technologies to create a unique product.
Furthermore, Borla spends countless hours fine-tuning exhaust systems to ensure that they accurately reflect the personality and performance of certain vehicle applications.
As a result, you’ll have a better driving experience.
In addition, the Borla exhaust note, with its unequaled clarity, can assist a driver in staying inside the power band during a challenging stretch by providing stimulating sensory feedback through sound.
Currently, Borla has a straight-through patent for this product thus minimizing the tendency of adulteration.
The exhaust helps the car to unleash the hidden horsepower by letting perfect air flow through the exhaust pipe while maintaining the alluring distinctive sound.
Interestingly, a million-mile warranty is placed on this product thus guaranteeing the quality. This is a show of trust and durability from the manufacturers.
Pros
- Fits perfectly with downpipe
- Excellent fit
- Unrivaled sound
- No adapter is needed when using a downpipe
Cons
- A bit of droning when cruising
02. Invidia (HS15STIG3T) Q300- Best Exhaust for Subaru WRX
Highlighted Features
- Quad tips are made of stainless steel that is rolled.
- Machine flanges made from CNC
- SUS304 High-quality steel construct
- Muffler design with the flat bottom shape
- TIG robot welding with double-walled tips
The muffler design with flat bottom gives it an aerodynamic performance of high speed. Although this change is an improvement from the older models.
The aerodynamic designs give it less resistance to airflow thus seamlessly reducing the drag on the car. Furthermore, inside the muffler, there is Advantex material which gives it a seamless design of piping.
Thus, producing a superb free-flowing exhaust with optimal back pressure, resulting in increased horsepower, torque, plus a deep sporty sound. The vehicle has more horsepower to play with.
Additionally, the piping has a polished SUS304 stainless-steel, bent-to-shape mandrel, and CNC machine manufactured flange.
It also has Titanium tips or a double wall polished stainless steel. The feature provides exceptional durability and aesthetics with a Robot TIG welding.
Meanwhile, if you want something a bit louder than a regular factory yet quiet at both idle and high speeds, this is the exhaust for you.
This will far surpass your expectations. One of the best features is that it is silent unless it is punched at which point it screams again with that deep traditional Subaru sound.
It’s just the right sound for you. It has a pleasant rumbling sound but is not excessively loud thus making it perfect for drag racers. It simply makes driving the automobile more enjoyable.
Moreover, the welds are stunning, and the finish is flawless. It is done with a Robot TIG thus creating excellent work. The hangers are exactly aligned hence less deformation.
On ramps, it should take you approximately an hour and a half to remove the old and replace it thus making it easy to swap.
Pros
- Quite a straightforward installation
- Great sound tone
- No droning
Cons
- Low clearance on steep driveways
03. DNA Motoring CBE-WRX02-OE- Best Subaru WRX Exhaust
Highlighted Features
- High-quality T-304 stainless steel manufacture
- Smooth toned deep and aggressive sound
- CNC Machine flange which is TIG welded
Exhaust system upgrades are a wonderful method to increase horsepower, release stored up torque, as well as improve on restricted original systems.
More also, a well-designed performance exhaust system with larger pipes, low-restriction mufflers, and tuned resonators may make a huge difference in your car.
Lower car exhaust backpressure, increased horsepower, torque, and a far better sound comes are a result of this.
Additionally, it features computerized mandrel bends for performance and toughness, made of high-quality T-304 stainless steel.
The gaskets and hardware are part of the total package thus making it easy to install this brand of exhaust system.
Furthermore, using an exhaust cat back system has several advantages, including greater horsepower and fuel efficiency, as well as an aggressive sound and a gorgeous appearance.
However, to properly appreciate these advantages, we must first comprehend the engine’s combustion cycle: Increased horsepower, torque, and miles per gallon with a more assertive, louder tone.
Meanwhile, the brand’s expert engineers do a lot of research and development in performing tests on car applications and fitments for their products.
Testing on the durability, strength, and also material longevity, is also carried out to ensure that when the product gets to the consumers, it is ready for use without concerns.
Pros
- Smooth flow of exhaust gas
- Corrosion and pressure-resistant
- Improved engine efficiency and output
- Attractive appearance
Cons
- Empty muffler with no packing
04. Invidia HS15STIGM4ST Exhaust System
Highlighted Features
- Bell mount of large 4-in stainless steel
- Single-piece design
- Super durable material
- Ultimate updated features
- Universal premium quality
The Invidia pipe is an alternative to existing power-boosting upgrades for a significant boost in performance.
A quick look at the Invidia pipe’s dyno chart reveals that it easily added several horse-power units to the factory exhaust system.
Additionally, each Invidia pipe comes with a 4-inch stainless-steel Bell mount that boosts power by removing surplus gas.
Thus, creating a one-piece design that doesn’t require the factory catalytic converter.
Furthermore, this exhaust system is incredible. The sound is amazing and will truly wake up your WRX or STI!
Also, on the 2021 STI, it sounds quite powerful and loud at full throttle producing a resonating sound that appeals to the drivers.
Moreover, this is the exhaust system for you if you’re seeking a deep, booming rumble.
Although many a few people complain that it’s quite noisy inside the cabin, what would a Subaru STI be without its trademark rumble?
The rumbling sound is a hallmark of the Subaru STI. Your Subie will appreciate you if you go for it!
Furthermore, each Invidia pipe can be bolted to any Invidia or standard exhaust for a simple installation. Thus, creating a simple and easy way of installation.
Pros
- No drone
- Hasslefree installation
- Power enhancement
Cons
- Excessive loud noise
05. SRS Axleback Exhaust System Compatible with Subaru
Highlighted Features
- Japanese style design
- Design with direct bolt-on installation
- Complete T-304 Stainless steel
SRS axle-back exhausts are made up of CNC machined flanges of T-304 stainless steel and mandrel bent for the greatest look possible and performance.
Also, it has a deep tone, and smooth, throaty clean sound of all of our exhaust systems are guaranteed. For the most part, SRS single exhaust models have 2.5-inch piping and a 4-inch tip.
Also, the tip of the exhaust is finished with a burnt blue giving a perfect look.
In addition, the SRS does not require welding, it comes with an excellent factory-fitted straight bolt-on design for simple installation.
However, this plug-and-play design is not compatible with SPT Exhaust.
Also, there are no modifications required for the downpipe or main pipe; the factory muffler is simply removed and bolted on.
Thus, making it easy to replace and install. As a result of this exhaust, you will not notice how much your motor tone has been muffled until you remove your stock cans.
Pros
- Amazing Japanese craftsmanship
- Superb sound quality
- Excellent fit with easy installation
- No downpipe needed
Cons
- Not compatible with SPT Exhaust
06. SRS Axle-back Quad Tip Exhaust System
Highlighted Features
- Complete T-304 stainless steel body
- Japanese crafted design
- Only compatible for 2011-2014 Subaru WRX STI 4DR SEDAN
- Mandrel shaped tubing
SRS Axle-back exhausts are made from T-304 grade stainless steel backed with machine-flanged CNC.
Which is mandrel-bent thus creating the finest possible appearance and as well as performance for Subaru.
Also, the stainless-steel body has a polished finish ensuring durability and longevity.
Additionally, all of the exhaust systems are guaranteed to sound deep, smooth, and throaty clean well.
Moreover, for the greater percentage of models, the SR’s single exhausts have 2.5-inch piping and a 4-inch tip with a burnt blue design.
Furthermore, the SRS does not require any welding, and they promise an excellent fit with straight bolt-on and simple installation.
Also, it has a really deep tone both inside and outside the car.
Pros
- Excellent sound tone
- DIY installation
- Stylish appearance
Cons
- Only compatible with 2011-2014 Subaru WRX STI 4DR SEDAN
- Will not fit the hatchback model
07. CNT V3 Axleback Exhaust with Muffler for 2015-2019 Subaru WRX
Highlighted Features
- Muffler fitted
- 4-inch tips of blue color
- Machined flanges
- Piping made of stainless steel
CNT Racing V3 back Axle comes with muffler exhaust for the STi and WRX models from 2015 to 2019.
Also, the mufflers have a blue tip of 4 inches with makes them unique.
Furthermore, this exhaust is the simplest way to increase performance and the amount of noise in your STi or WRX.
The free-flowing exhaust allows for more spent air to escape thus leaving the combustion chamber clean.
However, if you don’t want something loud and noisy, then this is a good choice to make from the list of best exhausts for WRX.
As the noise level is minimal thus making it an option for a silent Subaru. Additionally, it is easy to install so you need to have no fear of the hassle it will take to do that.
The 4-inch blue tips give this exhaust brand a great look that is appealing to the eyes.
Pros
- Simple installation
- Excellent sound tone
- Attractive look
Cons
- Droning at higher engine RPMs
08. Northeastern Resonator Pipe Muffler Exhaust System
Highlighted Features
- Fits directly
- Stainless steel construction
- Suitable for 2009-13 Forester and 08-11 Impreza 2.5L
This Northeastern exhaust comes with one resonator pipe and two rear mufflers for the right and left sides of the Subaru.
However, it is a perfect exhaust for mainly three models of Subaru. It fits well with the 2009-2013 Subaru Forester 2.5L naturally aspirated.
Additionally, it fits the 2008-2011 Subaru Impreza 2.5i including the premium, sport, and limited sedan as well.
The turbocharged Subaru Forester 2008-2013 also uses this brand of exhaust.
Furthermore, the Northeastern resonator exhaust is very easy to install since it is a direct fit for the Subaru models. It comes with gaskets and clamps which ease up the installation process.
Pros
- Comes with gaskets
- Easy installation
- Fit perfectly
Cons
- Slightly noisy when in use
- Incorrect donut flange gasket
09. Northeastern Stainless Steel Exhaust System Kit fits: 2002-2005 Subaru
Highlighted Features
- Made of Stainless steel 409 grade
- Direct fit
- Gaskets included
- Resonator pipe
- Rear Muffler Tailpipe
- Non-wrinkled pipes
The Northeastern Exhaust kit is a gamechanger in terms of horsepower. Also, the pipe design is constructed in a way to help the engine gain more horsepower.
Additionally, the pipes are non-wrinkled creating a better pathway for the spent gas to flow out easily.
The exhaust is non-restrictive to airflow allowing the combustion chamber to burn fuel efficiently.
Furthermore, durability is another added feature that this exhaust brings to the Subaru.
Northeastern made this exhaust with a high-grade 409 stainless steel which can outperform regular aluminum-steel alloys.
Also, this exhaust system is a perfect fit for a non-turbo Subaru Impreza 2.5L 2002-2005 model. It comes with a gasket thus making it very easy to install.
The rear muffler design of this exhaust creates low silent noise, very close to the ambient noise.
Pros
- Ease of installation
- Bent up to 90% so it fits well
- High flow
- Silent and quiet
Cons
- Touches the rear cross member
10. CNT V3 Axleback Exhaust with Muffler for 2015-2019 Subaru WRX
Highlighted Features
- Muffler enabled
- Silver tips of 4 inch
- Stainless steel manufacture
- Gaskets
The CNT Racing V3 back Axle with muffler exhaust is designed for WRX and STI models from 2015 forward and is also one of the best exhausts for Subaru WRX.
Additionally, this design is the simplest way to increase the amount of noise and performance in your WRX or STI.
Also, as one of the best STI exhausts, gaskets are included in the stainless-steel piping thus making it easy to install.
Furthermore, the Stainless blue stagger tips with a 4″ double wall muffler have a diameter of 4 inches, thus enabling increased performance and sound with ease of installation.
Furthermore, this brand of exhaust comes with ease of installation which reduces the toil and cost of installing it under your Subaru WRX.
Also, the sound from the exhaust greets the ears in a smooth cadence, not overly loud and not extremely quiet giving it the unique feel of the Subaru STI.
However, there is no need to fuss over how to deal with issues of whether this exhaust brand will fit in the holes made for it because they make a perfect fit.
Pros
- Great installation ease
- Excellent sound quality
- Perfect fit
Cons
- Droning sound at high rpm
User Buying Considerations
Many car owners are more concerned with what’s going on under the hood than with what’s going on beneath their vehicle.
While the engine is considered as the heart and soul of a vehicle, the exhaust system is perhaps one of the components that have a great effect on how well it performs in terms of mileage and power.
However, changing your factory exhaust system with an aftermarket one necessitates some great deal of thought.
Most stock exhaust systems have some restrictions, but manufacturers often allow improvement opportunities. They do this by cutting costs in materials to meet market demands.
As a result, aftermarket exhaust systems are often one of the most cost-effective changes to make to your car.
Here are a few of the factors to consider when changing from a factory exhaust to an off-the-shelf exhaust.
Price
Have a budget in mind and choose a product that comes within the range of what you’re willing to spend on a high-quality exhaust.
Additionally, there are many different exhausts on the market today, the price ranges from low to high. In most cases, the high-priced designs are well worth the hoopla.
However, this does not imply that you must take out a loan to obtain a high-performance exhaust.
There are exhaust designs that are both high-quality and dependable that are available at reasonable prices. In our review area, we’ve included a few of them.
Compatibility
It is important to always take your time to read through the complete product description.
After all, this is where you will find all of the important information regarding the product you’ve chosen. Particularly the Subaru model and year with which the exhaust is compatible.
Additionally, it is also recommended that you can also look out for intricate compatibility factors such as your sound preferences and elevation from the ground when installed.
Since some brand offers a good size fit all meanwhile others brand may require little modifications for a perfect fit.
Installation
There are a few steps to installing a new exhaust. However, you will have to remove the old exhaust from its compartment and replace it with a new one, for example.
To ensure that the new exhaust is effectively mounted, make sure the bolts and nuts are properly screwed into place.
Additionally, while some exhausts are simple to install, others may be more difficult. Choose a design that comes with an installation guide to walk you through the process.
Also, if you want an exhaust, though, you may need to engage a professional because you will not be able to install or attach it yourself.
Materials used for Construction
Whatever type of exhaust system you choose, be sure it’s composed of tough materials like aluminized or stainless steel.
Also, ensure the materials are compatible with your car to avoid corrosion as a result of dissimilar metals.
Furthermore, mild steel, which isn’t as strong and resistant as aluminum and stainless steel, is used in most factory exhaust systems.
Aluminised steel is a less expensive and lighter alternative to stainless steel, although it is not that robust or rust-resistant.
However, because of its modest weight, it can increase performance by lowering your vehicle’s overall weight.
Exhausts made of stainless steel, on the other hand, are extremely durable and will certainly outlast your vehicle.
Stainless steel exhausts are perfect for any application since they function well in all types of weather.
Furthermore, to maintain higher overall integrity, aftermarket exhaust system pieces are typically built from the same material.
This is also true of the attachments, such as the flange plate, nuts, and bolts.
Diameter of the Exhaust Pipes
One important thing to do is to examine the exhaust pipe diameter of the aftermarket products that are to be installed.
The pipe diameter must correspond to the horsepower and displacement of the engine.
Although larger diameter pipes appear to be more attractive, they will reduce exhaust velocity, resulting in a loss of power.
Furthermore, the dimensions listed on exhaust systems often refer to the outside diameter of the pipe in the realm of exhaust pipes.
Preferably, go for exhaust pipes that have been bent using mandrel bending rather than crush bending.
Crush bending, a process that involves placing a radius die and backing shoes inside the tube without a supporting mandrel, is used to make stock exhaust pipes.
The pipe’s diameter is impaired, and there is a small depression found on the inside part of the bend, although the bends are functional.
On the other hand, mandrel bending is a technique for manufacturing pipe which produces a smooth pipe, practically product free of kinks and wrinkles.
In addition, as the pipe is swept through the die and backing shoes, a mandrel placed inside the pipe supports the inner walls thus making it free of diameter and profile variations.
FAQs
01. Which exhaust provides the most benefits?
There hasn’t been a definitive test of every aftermarket exhaust system to confirm or contradict the best gain level.
To summarize, an exhaust with the biggest pipe diameter and a 100 percent baffle-less muffler would theoretically be superior to one with a lesser diameter and/or a baffled muffler.
02. Which exhaust produces the most pleasing sound?
This is a topic that is entirely up to the individual. It’s highly subjective, and it can get in the way of municipal noise restrictions.
That wonderful exhaust could be the source of some costly and time-consuming noise abatement charges.
The ScoobySport, Stromung, and Prodrive are arguably the three most popular-sounding exhausts.
Finding someone in your region who has the exhaust component(s) you’re interested in hearing in person is a wise approach.
Locals can be found through the NASIOC (North American Subaru Impreza Owners Club) Chapters or NASIOC Regional Areas.
03. What other differences do exhausts have?
The following are the other distinctions: Cat(s) with a high flow rate or a catless system.
The length of the exhaust pipe. Exhaust component lengths are exclusive to some manufacturers.
This implies you’ll need to use a custom piece and all of their exhaust piping, or at least a portion of it.
In addition, JDM exhausts come in a variety of lengths and require either full JDM piping or some JDM piping with a custom piece.
Furthermore, some manufacturer’s components may be substituted for two OEM components.
This is most frequent in the TBE’s downpipe section, where the “downpipe” is a downpipe+midpipe, and they are known as “long downpipes.”
Flanges and mating surfaces. Exhaust components feature either a flat flange or a flexing doughnut gasket.
Before you buy, double-check which type of exhaust you have, and which type your replacement exhaust has.
Some firms produce various adapters that connect diameter A to diameter B piping and/or a flat flange to a doughnut gasket, for example.
04. Which exhaust has the least in terms of back pressure?
Although it is uncertain, the theory implies three things which state that a larger pipe is preferred to smaller piping.
Also, baffle-less mufflers are often better than baffled mufflers. No cats or freer-flowing cats are often better than OEM flowing cats.
05. What is the best type of exhaust metal?
Stainless steel (304 and 321), titanium, and mild steel are all used to make exhausts. There is no conclusive proof that one substance is superior to the other.
Corrosion levels are usually higher in mild steel (coated or otherwise).
Conclusion
There is no single rule of thumb when it comes to selecting the best exhaust for 2015 WRX in this present age.
With myriads of exhausts and Subaru models in the market, it can be a pretty tasking job.
However, with the guide provided above one can be able to make a more informed decision concerning the best exhaust for Subaru WRX.
Oftentimes, the best thing to do in this case is to scout around for information about the exhaust brands as much as possible to make a well-informed choice at the end of the day.
Finally, always remember to factor in the weight and lifespan of the best WRX exhaust system.
Thus, preventing unnecessary additional weight and the need to replace the exhaust within a short time.
A guided decision will make you enjoy the roaring sounds, high performance, better fuel efficiency, and as well as beauty.