The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is one of the most popular Mitsubishi cars and a sought-after vehicle. Besides being powerful, this sports car has a distinctive and attractive appearance and is highly modifiable, making it the perfect car for gearheads all over the world.
One of the most popular modifications for the Evo X (the tenth and final generation of the vehicle) is an exhaust system mod. Even though the Evolution X comes with a great stock exhaust, customizing the system allows owners to customize the car and to increase its overall performance.
Fitting an aftermarket exhaust system on your Evolution will considerably change its sound and might give it an engine performance boost, as well as decrease its fuel consumption.
Evo X Exhaust Systems — Comparison Table
| Image | Product | |
|---|---|---|
Best exhaust for Evo X  | Borla 140285
| Check Price |
Deep Rumble Exhaust System  | Invidia HS09MEXG3T
| Check Price |
The cheap and loud option  | Manzo CBS-MI07
| Check Price |
Best sounding exhaust system  | CORSA 14858BLK
| Check Price |
Loud exhaust system  | Extreme Turbo Systems 100-10-EXH-007
| Check Price |
In this article, we will detail the best exhaust systems for the Evo X and which one to buy for your Evolution.
Review of Top-Rated Exhaust Systems for Mitsubishi Evo X
- Borla 140285
(Best Evo X Exhaust) - Invidia HS09MEXG3T
(Best Evo X Catback Exhaust) - Extreme Turbo Systems 100-10-EXH-007
(Loudest Evo X Exhaust) - Manzo CBS-MI07
(Best Stainless Steel Evo X Exhaust) - MAPerformance MAP EVOX-CBE-X
(Best Evo X Single Exit Exhaust) - ETS-08-16
(Best Evo X Single Exhaust) - CORSA 14858BLK
(Loud Evo X Exhaust)
1. Borla 140285 – Best Exhaust for Evo X
The Borla 140285 cat-back exhaust system claims to increase the performance of the Evolution X. Despite not providing actual numbers, a slight performance increase is to be expected when installing an aftermarket exhaust system.
That being said, this is not the exhaust to get if you’re looking for a performance boost. Most aftermarket systems increase engine airflow (which leads to extra engine performance) and will elevate the vehicle’s performance.
- Piping Diameter: 2.75", 2.25"
Although some Borla exhausts considerably improve efficiency, this is not the case with the Borla 140285. What the Borla 140285 excels at is sound and sound quality.
Besides not being pricey (as a matter of fact, this Borla exhaust could fall into the budget price range), the Borla 140285 produces a deep, distinctive growl that will surely make passersby stare at your Evolution X.
The sound is aggressive but not too loud, and there is no noticeable drone. When pushed to high RPMs the exhaust gets louder, but it never becomes obnoxious. At cruising speeds, it produces a deep sound, barely noticeable from inside the cabin.
Despite its price, the Borla 140285 is not a budget exhaust. It’s up there with the best of them and a serious contender if you’re mainly looking for sound improvements on your Evo X.
Pros:
- Produces a deep and pleasurable growl
- Not overly expensive
Specs:
- T-304 stainless steel
- 2.75” pipe diameter with 5” tips
2. Invidia HS09MEXG3T – Best Evo X Catback Exhaust
The Invidia HS09MEXG3T Q300 is another system that above all focuses on improving the Evo X sound, and it does so while giving the vehicle a noticeable performance boost.
The aerodynamics and the design of this exhaust greatly increase engine airflow and allow for an extra kick in function at the higher RPM range. It isn’t, however, a performance-focused exhaust system.
It is more expensive than the Borla 140285 while behaving similarly. Maybe it boosts efficiency a bit more, but it costs more too. If the price to performance ratio is not enough to decide between this or a similar exhaust system, then do it by how it sounds.
- Mitsubishi Evo 2008-Up
- Piping diameter: 76 millimeter
- Tip size: 110 millimeter
The Invidia Q300 produces a subdued sound. Your neighbors won’t be bothered by the deep rumble this exhaust produces. As a matter of fact, they might thank you for not choosing a system that manages to change the vehicle tone while allowing everyone to keep their sanity.
The more negative side of this exhaust system might be its installation. Although it doesn’t happen with every Invidia, there might be some fitting issues between the aftermarket exhaust and the stock parts. Nothing a little elbow grease won’t fix, but be warned.
Pros:
- Slightly boosts engine performance
- A deep rumble that’s not very loud
Specs:
- SUS304 Stainless steel
- 3” pipe diameter with 4.3” tips
3. Manzo CBS-MI07 – Best Stainless Steel Evo X Exhaust
This Manzo exhaust is only advisable if you’re on a budget. Although better than the stock exhaust, this system doesn’t offer much in terms of performance or sound.
Sure, it allows for more airflow and it does change the tone of the vehicle, we’re not entirely sure it’s worth it. On the plus side, it is cheaper than most aftermarket exhaust systems. Then again, you get what you pay for.
- Stainless steel cat-back exhaust system
- TIG/MIG welded construction
- Adds average 6-12 HP depending on modifications
- Direct bolt-on fitment, no modifications necessary for installation
- Installation hardwares included
Your Evo X will be significantly louder with this Manzo USA exhaust, but you’ll have to live with the constant and equally loud drone. Don’t buy this system if you plan on having conversations inside your car.
It’s a cheap exhaust system and it shows. Still, buy it if it’s your only means of upgrading from the stock exhaust — and if you usually drive solo or don’t mind not hearing what the passengers are saying.
Pros:
- Cheap
- Very loud
Specs:
- T-304 Stainless steel
- 3” pipe diameter and 4” tips
4. ETS 08-16 – Best Evo X Single Exhaust
The ETS-08-16 Exhaust is the budget option. It’s about the same as the V3 Dual Muffler exhaust system, but worse in every aspect. Its main advantage is its price, which is understandable when you realize this is an outdated system.
Although the V3 is not a bad exhaust, it’s probably not the one to push your Evo X to the next level. It’s an adequate exhaust system at an acceptable price. The same can be said about ETS-08-16. It’s sufficient.
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It is better than the stock exhaust both in sound and performance, but it’s not great at either of these aspects. If you can find a good deal on this system, then, by all means buy it. Otherwise, don’t bother.
Pros:
- Awesome sound
Specs:
- Light Weight Titanium Construction
- 3.0″ Single Exit
5. CORSA 14858BLK – Loud Evo X Exhaust
Let’s not beat around the bush: it’s difficult to have a better sounding exhaust than a Corsa. There’s a reason why Corsa is one of the most respected exhaust brands — and why you’ll pay a premium price.
First of all, most Corsa exhausts largely increase engine performance. The 14858 is no exception. With this exhaust system, you can expect more horsepower and torque at the higher end. There’s also improved fuel economy due to the design.
- Dual walled design protects against heat distortion
- Adorned with high definition, precision laser engraved CORSA logo
- CORSA Performance tip kits are designed to fit directly to CORSA exhaust systems
- Premium Stainless Steel Construction
- Clamp-On Tip Design
Albeit the best thing about Corsa exhausts is their patented technology that completely removes drone and other unwanted frequencies that might resonate. And bear in mind this is not a quiet exhaust. The Corsa 14858 is loud and aggressive, but you might forget about that since you won’t hear it inside the car.
Sound-wise, there’s little doubt this is one of the best aftermarket exhaust systems for the Evolution X (if you’re not looking for an obnoxious exhaust, that is). But then again, it comes at a premium price.
Pros:
- Great sound
- No drone
Specs:
- T-304 stainless steel
- 3” pipe diameter and 4.5” tips
6. MAPerformance MAP EVOX-CBE-X – Best Evo X Single Exit Exhaust
This USA-made exhaust is supposed to dramatically increase the performance of the Evo X, however, we didn’t find that to be the case. There is a performance increase, but not a meaningful one — or at least not one that matches MAPerformance’s claims.
This single exit exhaust system has no muffler. It is a straight pipe that manages to keep an acceptable volume. That doesn’t mean it’s quiet — not at all. The MAPerformance Single Exit Extreme gets loud, but not overly so. Maybe at higher RPMs you’ll start pushing the definition of acceptable, but it’s bearable at cruising speeds.
- Made right here in the USA
- 3" single exit exhaust kit
- Made from high quality 304 Stainless Steel
- Fits all 08+ Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X GSR / MR
- The MAP Extreme includes No Muffler, just 4" tip.
Admittedly, the straight piping should result in a better performance increase than the one we’ve seen, but we’re not displeased with this exhaust if you take into account its price. It’s a great budget option if you can’t splurge on an exhaust system and don’t mind having a loud one.
Pros:
- Slight performance increase
- Loud
Specs:
- T-304 stainless steel
- 3” pipe diameter with 3” tips
7. Extreme Turbo Systems 100-10-EXH-007 – Loudest Evo X Exhaust
This Extreme Turbo Systems exhaust looks and sounds great. You have to love the sound of your car and hearing it constantly, because the ETS 08-16 V3 Dual Muffler Exhaust System is not quiet.
The ETS V3 comes in three versions: quiet, normal and extreme. Those terms are relative to the sound the system produces. However, we found their names aren’t accurate. There’s nothing tranquil about the quiet version and the normal one is considerably louder.
It’s fair to say the Extreme version is for those who want it loud and don’t mind drone, but perhaps that’s a bit much. The normal version is plenty loud and sure to make a few heads turn as you’re blazing down the road in your Evolution.
If you’re worried about clearance, then know that the mid-pipe tucks into the vehicle and allows for better clearance than most exhausts for the Evolution X.
Pros:
- Very loud
- Great clearance
Specs:
- T-304 stainless steel
- 3.0” pipe diameter and 4.5” tips
Conclusion
Choosing and buying an exhaust system for the Evo X is not easy. Despite everything, it is a personal matter. There is no single best exhaust for any vehicle. You have to choose between power and sound while ensuring that you don’t spend too much money.
However, if things get too daunting, there’s no shame in getting professional help. In our opinion, the Borla 140285 Cat-Back Exhaust System – EVO X ’08 2.0L TURBO AT/MT AWD 4DR is the best aftermarket system for the Evo X.
This exhaust combines excellent sound and a bit of power at an affordable price. This premium exhaust system almost costs as much as a lesser budget option.
Our second pick goes to the better sounding system from all exhausts on this list, the CORSA 14858BLK Cat-Back Exhaust System. This is not a cheap exhaust, but quality comes at a price. If this system was cheaper it would be our top pick, no questions asked. It’s the go-to exhaust for people who love having a great sounding vehicle with no drone.
Most exhausts on this list are great options; they’re resistant and offer various qualities and prices. Choosing an exhaust for your Evo X is difficult. We hope that we’ve made it easier.
Evo X Exhaust FAQ
Does the Evo X have an exhaust diagram?
Yes. There are several Evo X diagrams online. They’re something like this.
What parts does the Evo X exhaust system have (evo x downpipe, evo x exhaust manifold)?
The Evolution X has the same parts you would find on any other exhaust system: the exhaust manifold, the catalytic converter, and the muffler. There are several pipes connecting all together in the Evo X, such as the downpipe.
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