With 111,673 units sold in 2019, the Tundra is, without doubt, one of the most successful pickups that Toyota has ever built. This success is largely due to the Tundra’s massive V8 engine.
And as you might expect, wherever there is a V8 engine there is a strong enthusiast base willing to improve its performance.
Throughout the course of this article, we will focus on one of the aspects with the greatest impact on both the power output and the personality of the mighty Toyota Tundra, the exhaust system.
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Comparison of the Best Exhaust Systems For Toyota Tundra
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What Makes an Exhaust System Great For a Toyota Tundra?
Upgrading Tundra’s exhaust system offers many benefits. Some more obvious and others more subtle.
Power Boost
Arguably, this is one of the most rewarding advantages of installing a quality aftermarket exhaust system. In the case of the Toyota Tundra. Pair the exhaust upgrade with a low-restriction induction system and you can easily boost your power gains. Add a supercharger kit and your Tundra could easily exceed 550 horsepower. Interested? To achieve such figures, the main requirement is to have a high-performance exhaust system capable of handling the increased flow of gases.
Improved Engine Sound
For Toyota Tundra owners, improving the exhaust sound is as important as increasing the engine’s power and torque. And for a good reason. Once you install a performance exhaust system, the distinctive roar emerging from the Tundra’s powerful V8 engine completely changes the personality of the truck.
General Perception
There is a lot of talk about how cars, in a way, reflect the personality of their owner. That theory is evident when choosing a quality exhaust system. Upgrading your Tundra’s exhaust system can yield different results. Do you want to get everyone’s attention? Perhaps you only want a discrete engine rumble at idle? It is up to you to decide which one makes you feel better.
How Do I Choose an Exhaust System?
With so many options available on the market, you may wonder, how can I choose the best exhaust system for my Toyota Tundra? What are the factors that make a top of the line product stand out among others? In this section, we will focus on answering those questions.
Exhaust System Material
When it comes to exhaust systems the type of material used for their manufacture is a decisive factor. Exhaust system conditions are highly corrosive (high heat, exposure to elements) and therefore you should try to choose exhausts made with materials that can withstand both high temperatures and corrosion. In that regard, exhausts made from 100% stainless steel (304, ideally) top the list of preferred materials.
CORSA Cat-Back Exhaust System 14916 is made of premium stainless steel.
Exhaust System Intended Usage
Will you be using your Tundra as a multi-purpose vehicle in the city? Are you passionate about Overlanding and off-road? Or maybe you are thinking about harnessing the power of your Tundra and having fun in competitions? How you intend to use your truck is also a deciding factor in choosing the exhaust system that best suits your needs.
Exhaust System Sound Calibration
We have already mentioned (and will continue to do so) how important the sound of the exhaust system is. Many manufacturers even classify their products according to the sound they produce. When deciding on the best exhaust system for your Toyota Tundra take the time to think about the noise level you are willing to handle.
A loud exhaust can be fun, but having to listen to it every day (at any speed) can be annoying. Our recommendation is not to focus solely on the sound the exhaust produces when accelerating from idle. Take into account the sound produced at cruising speed, as a noisy exhaust during a long drive can be really bothersome.
Review of the Best Toyota Tundra Exhaust Systems
Talking about the subjective aspects that make a great exhaust system is interesting. However, much more exciting is to start reviewing the best exhausts for your Toyota Tundra! Ready? Let’s get started.
Best Overall:CORSA Cat-Back Exhaust System 14916
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PROS
- Built using mandrel bent 3-inch diameter pipes
- Quality 304 stainless steel construction
- Bolt-on cat-back system, no modifications needed
- Non-restrictive design that maximizes horsepower gains
- Corsa patented reflective sound cancellation gets rid of the annoying low frequencies that cause droning and leave you with a crisp, clean sound
CONS
- The tone of the exhaust might be too “civilized” to some
- Pricey when compared to other exhaust systems on this list
What Recent Buyers Report
CORSA is one of the leading brands in the exhaust systems market. For this reason, we are not surprised by the great acceptance of this product. Most buyers praise how easy it is to install, but above all how quiet this exhaust system is when cruising. Interestingly, the civilized behavior of the CORSA exhaust is at the same time one of the biggest complaints from users that prefer a “louder” exhaust tone.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Managing the flow of gases that a V8 engine produces is not an easy task. Still, CORSA has proven itself up to the challenge with its Cat-Back system for the Toyota Tundra. In addition to its excellent material selection (304 stainless steel), we love its robust dual-walled construction that prevents tubes from warping over time. Another factor that makes this escapement stand out from the rest is its handcrafted tips, which are beautifully polished to enhance your Tundra’s appearance.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for an exhaust system that is easy to install, and that gives your Toyota Tundra a powerful yet civilized roar, then the CORSA Cat-Back Exhaust System 14916 is a good option to consider. However, if you prefer a more budget-friendly exhaust upgrade then we suggest you opt for the Toyota TRD or MagnaFlow cat-back systems reviewed below.
Runner-up:Borla Cat-Back Dual Exhaust System 140332
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PROS
- Built from premium T-304 authentic stainless steel
- Dual exhaust system with two 2.25-inch outlets each
- Built using cutting-edge CNC manufacturing processes to ensure a perfect fit
- BORLA’s distinctive Sound of Power respected by enthusiasts around the world
- Features Borla’s patented straight-through and multi-core technology to unleash the horsepower of your Tundra
CONS
- The split side exit design might not please everyone
- Similar to the CORSA exhaust, the sound may be too reserved for some
What Recent Buyers Report
The aspects that most buyers praise about this system are its high quality, its beautiful finish, and of course the sound that it gives to the engine. However, again this is a point of debate. While some buyers praise that the sound is neither too loud nor too soft, others find it too mild for their taste.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Borla exhausts are synonymous with quality and high performance. And the Borla Cat-Back Exhaust System 140332 is no exception.
What made us include this exhaust in the list is its exclusive straight-through and multi-core technology that gets the most out of your Tundra’s torque and power. Equally important is the fact that it is a “dual” exhaust system which reduces the restrictions associated with conventional systems. Overall, a system with a great balance of performance and aggressive style.
Bottom Line
If the CORSA exhaust didn’t convince you, then this system is probably what you’ve been looking for. The Borla Cat-Back Exhaust System 140332 offers an “adequate” sound level along with an aggressive dual exhaust design and a unique technology that increases the velocity of the exhaust gases, thus improving both the power and fuel efficiency of your beloved Tundra.
Best for the Money:Magnaflow Street Series Cat-Back 15306
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PROS
- Excellent value
- Stylish dual exhaust design with one side outlet
- Aggressive “Deep MagnaFlow” performance sound
- Dual 2.5-inch tubing diameter for increased horsepower
- Built with quality stainless steel and CNC precision robotic manufacturing for the utmost quality and durability
CONS
- Although it is marketed as an “aggressive” sounding exhaust, it actually offers a moderate sound
- Not 304-Stainless
What Recent Buyers Report
The most highlighted factor reported by the buyers of the MagnaFlow Exhaust 15306 is how good it looks on the Toyota Tundra. No wonder. MagnaFlow did an awesome job both with the performance and the style of this exhaust system. Following a similar trend to Borla, MagnaFlow opted for using a “dual-pipe” design, however, instead of splitting the exits, they chose to keep both exhaust tips on the same side. The result is awesome. A combination of sober style and performance.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Aside from its stylish look, what we have liked the most from the MagnaFlow Exhaust 15306 is the excellent value offered by this product. You get a dual-tip stainless steel exhaust system at a price considerably lower than Borla or CORSA systems. Moreover, you also benefit from a deep but not over-bearing exhaust note both at idle and cruising speeds.
Bottom Line
Overall, the MagnaFlow Exhaust 15306 is a solid choice for any Toyota Tundra owner looking for a premium exhaust system that doesn’t break the bank. However, as in the two previous reviews, we must note that this system is designed for daily driving pickups, meaning you will not get an extreme sound but a moderate roar each time you hit the gas pedal.
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Best Tundra TRD Exhaust:Toyota TRD Cat-Back PTR03-34101 & PTR03-34106
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PROS
- Independent dual-outlet design
- Produces a deep throaty exhaust note
- Bolt-on replacement, no welding or cutting required
- Built from premium stainless steel that exceeds Toyota OEM standards
- Designed using the less restrictive path to reduce exhaust gases backpressure and hence improving low-end and mid-range torque
CONS
- Requires both part numbers (PTR03-34101 & PTR03-34106) to complete the installation
- Comes without the necessary metal clamps, bolts, or gaskets
What Recent Buyers Report
Unsurprisingly, the vast majority of Tundra owners report being very happy with the TRD exhaust system. This is because TRD’s cat-back system has a sound that is not intrusive like other exhaust systems on the market. On the contrary, the TRD exhaust provides a fairly subdued sound, until the moment you hit the gas pedal to the ground. That’s when the fun begins as a powerful sound emerges from Tundra’s V8 engine.
Why it Stands Out to Us
While it is true that we would have liked the TRD team to include a more complete kit (with all the necessary hardware for installation) it is also true that the product they have developed is extraordinary.
Considering it’s a Toyota-designed exhaust, it outperforms the competition in many ways. It is not just about the sound (which is already an achievement) but the exceptional fitment, and zero drone. Definitely, this is a cat-back system that has all the merits not only to be on our list of favorites but to be seriously considered by the vast majority of Toyota enthusiasts.
Bottom Line
If you are passionate about Toyota vehicles and want to keep your Tundra 100% original then the TRD Cat-Back PTR03-34101 exhaust system and its corresponding TRD tailpipe kit PTR03-34106 will not disappoint. The combination of both parts will give your truck a crushing sound when accelerating, without having an exasperating sound at cruising speed.
Best Tundra Dual Exhaust:BORLA Cat-Back Exhaust System 140638
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PROS
- Dual rear exits with 4-inch exhaust tips
- Gives your Tundra a nice rumble sound
- Made using 100% quality T-304 stainless steel
- Its design favors the speed of the gases and therefore the torque and power of the engine
- Features Borla’s patented straight-through and multi-core technology to get the most out of your Tundra
CONS
- The straight rear exits may not please everyone, especially when loading/unloading
What Recent Buyers Report
Hands down, what most buyers love about this Borla cat-back exhaust system is its clean sound. Despite its low restriction design, Borla managed to keep the sound under control, giving the engine a nice rumbling sound at idle and a strong tone with no vibrations when accelerating. All in all, a good choice for daily driving.
Why it Stands Out to Us
You may be wondering what made us include a second Borla exhaust system on this list, especially when it is so similar to the first. The reason is simple, both are good looking systems, both are made with premium quality T-304 stainless steel, and both feature Borla’s proprietary straight-through and multi-core technology.
However, the BORLA Cat-Back Exhaust System 140638 set apart from its cousin the 140332 in the way it handles the gases in the final section of the exhaust. Instead of using side exhaust exits, this system uses two rear exits. Simply put, you can think of the BORLA Cat-Back Exhaust System 140638 as a rear-exit version of the 140332. Another factor that is important to highlight is aesthetics. We considered it important to include a system with a rear exit since this type of exhaust gives an even more sporty look to the Toyota Tundra.
Bottom Line
If what you need is a cat-back system that gives your Tundra a unique and more aggressive look, then the Borla 140638 might interest you. This particular exhaust system offers a “suitable” exhaust sound while driving in normal city traffic, along with a vigorous roar when hitting the pedal to the floor.
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Comparison Overview
One of the most common discussions among Tundra owners is whether the exhaust system is worth replacing, and if so, what is the best alternative. In this section, we will address those points.
OEM vs Aftermarket Exhaust
OEM exhaust systems are characterized by favoring fuel economy and emissions above all else. Then they take care that the exhaust has a “proper” (civilized) sound and it is only at the end that they take care of improving the truck’s power.
The objective of aftermarket exhaust systems is quite different. On one hand, some brands only produce “cheap” exhausts which quality leaves a lot to be desired. But on the other hand, renowned aftermarket brands such as those discussed in this guide, focus on improving the power output and sound of your Tundra by using high-quality materials and applied engineering to enhance the flow of exhaust gases.
Tundra TRD Exhaust vs Flowmaster
If OEM exhausts are focused on fuel economy, what happens when the manufacturer decides to create a performance line? That is the case with TRD (Toyota Racing Development). TRD-developed exhausts are intended to provide more power while maintaining acceptable sound levels. You can expect a slight rumble of the engine and a nice sound when accelerating.
On the other hand, Flowmaster exhausts are focused on bringing maximum power to your Tundra. Convenience is secondary. Expect a loud sound at cruising speed which can be annoying on long trips.
Axle Back vs Cat Back
Although not all enthusiasts agree on this point, the truth is that axle-back exhausts do not improve the flow of exhaust gases, they only modulate their sound. So if all you are looking for is a deeper sound, this type of system is surely for you. On the other hand, Cat-Back exhausts can significantly improve the flow of gases and therefore the power of your Tundra. As an added benefit, Cat-Back exhausts also add a distinctive note to your truck.
Conclusion
Throughout this guide, we have discussed the factors that make it worthwhile to install an exhaust system on your Toyota Tundra. Additionally, we have reviewed several systems that could meet the objective of improving both the sound and the power of your truck. Hopefully, this information will help you to brag about your engine power every time you hit the gas pedal on your mighty Toyota Tundra.
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People Also Ask
Without a doubt the subject of exhaust systems is fascinating. In the following section, we have compiled the most common questions regarding this topic.
Does TRD Exhaust Add Horsepower?
Yes – Depending on the year and engine of your Toyota Tundra you can expect up to 15 real-world horsepower increase. This figure can vary significantly depending on the type of induction system you have installed on your truck. This is because the performance of the exhaust system is closely related to the amount of air that can enter the engine.
Does a Loud Exhaust Use More Fuel?
No – A louder exhaust does not use more fuel. A part of the exhaust system, the muffler, is responsible for “modulating” the sound produced by the engine, but it does not have a direct influence on engine performance or gas mileage. This assumes that the muffler (or another component in the exhaust) is not creating a severe obstruction to the flow of gases. In that case, the performance and fuel consumption of the engine could be affected.
Magnaflow Street Series Cat-Back 15306
What is a Cat Back Exhaust?
Cat-Back exhaust is known as the group of exhaust components that start from the outlet of the catalytic converter to the tip of the exhaust. In the specific case of the Toyota Tundra, the Cat-Back includes the muffler, the final section of pipes, and the tip of the exhaust.
How to Measure Exhaust Pipe
The easiest way to measure the diameter of the exhaust pipe is by using a flexible measuring tape. Keep in mind when making the measurement that most manufacturers use as reference the outside diameter of the pipe (OD) and not the internal diameter (ID). To make the measurement, place the tip of the measuring tape touching the outer edge of the pipe and then passing it through the center of the pipe, measure the distance to the outer edge of the opposite side.
Is a Cat Back Exhaust Legal in California?
Yes – Cat-Back exhaust systems are still legal in California. According to the California Assembly Bill (A.B.) 1824 that went into effect on January 1, 2019 law enforcement officials can only issue a citation if the noise level of your exhaust system is above 95 decibels. For your reference, a jackhammer produces approximately 100 decibels of noise.That being said… we have many automotive enthusiast friends in California that note being cited for rather ‘tame’ exhaust notes.
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