Most car enthusiasts who modify vehicles or seek performance enhancements have encountered the concept of downpipes.
What do downpipes represent and in what ways do they improve vehicle power and efficiency?
Our guide will explain what downpipes are and their advantages while demonstrating how high-performance downpipes from ASM Performance improve vehicle performance.
What is a Downpipe?
A downpipe serves as a vital part of the exhaust system in turbocharged vehicles. The downpipe serves as the conduit between the turbocharger’s exhaust outlet and the remainder of the exhaust system thereby permitting engine exhaust gases to exit through this path.
Key Functions of a Downpipe:
- The downpipe channels exhaust gases from the turbocharger to both the catalytic converter and the vehicle’s exhaust system.
- Decreasing backpressure allows for faster turbo spool and enhances engine performance.
- Optimizing exhaust flow results in changes to both horsepower and torque output.
Most factory OEM downpipes incorporate restrictive designs and small diameters because they need to meet strict emissions regulations.
ASM Downpipe vs OEM Downpipe
How Does a Downpipe Improve Performance?
One of the top bolt-on changes for boosting turbocharged car performance is upgrading the downpipe.
Here’s how it enhances performance:
1. Increased Horsepower & Torque
The standard factory downpipes commonly face performance limitations because they have narrow diameters combined with restrictive catalytic converters. An aftermarket high-flow downpipe from ASM Performance expedites exhaust gas evacuation reducing turbo lag and boosting power output.
Typical Gains:
– Aftermarket downpipes can boost output by 10 to 30+ WHP based on the specific tuning and additional modifications used.
– Improved throttle response
2. Better Turbo Spool & Reduced Lag
The increased diameter of the downpipe reduces exhaust gas turbulence which enables the turbo to reach operating speed more rapidly. Drivers will experience quicker acceleration along with improved responsiveness during operation.
3. Improved Exhaust Flow & Sound
The use of a performance downpipe improves exhaust flow which results in a deeper and more aggressive car sound especially when combined with an aftermarket exhaust system.
4. More Efficient Engine Operation
An engine with less backpressure expends less energy to expel exhaust gases which can result in enhanced fuel efficiency and prolonged engine life.
Types of Downpipes: Catted vs. Catless
Two main types of downpipes exist which you will find during your search.
Most regions permit catted downpipes to meet emissions requirements while catless downpipes typically fail to comply with street legality standards.
A catted downpipe yields moderate power gains of approximately 10-20 WHP while a catless downpipe produces high power gains of 20-30+ WHP.
Find out the difference between a catted downpipe vs catless downpipe here:
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Do You Need a Tune After Installing a Downpipe?
Yes, after installing a downpipe most modern turbocharged vehicles need a tune to adapt to the changes in oxygen sensor readings and airflow.
The majority of contemporary turbocharged vehicles like VW/Audi models as well as BMW and Subaru require tuning after downpipe installation.
Here’s why:
– The vehicle’s computer will likely turn on the check engine light (CEL) because the oxygen sensor readings become different when airflow changes.
– A performance tune enables the engine to adapt to enhanced exhaust flow and achieve maximum power output.
Pro Tip: To achieve optimal performance results combine your downpipe with a Stage 2 ECU tune.
Why Choose ASM Performance Downpipes?
At ASM Tuning, we engineer downpipes for maximum flow, durability, and performance.
Here’s why ours stand out:
- High-Quality Materials – Made from T304 stainless steel for corrosion resistance.
- Precision Welding – Ensures no leaks and long-term reliability.
- Optimized Diameter – Designed to minimize turbulence and maximize exhaust flow.
- Direct Fitment – No modifications needed—bolt-on installation.
- Available in Catted & Catless Options – Choose what fits your needs.
- All our downpipes come equipped with a heat shield for extreme temperature performance.
Final Thoughts: Is a Downpipe Worth It?
Yes, a downpipe upgrade delivers significant power gains and better throttle response along with an aggressive exhaust sound while remaining one of the most cost-effective modifications.
Your vehicle will show immediate performance gains whether you choose to install a downpipe with a catalytic converter or without one.
Achieve optimal performance by combining your downpipe with both a high-quality exhaust system and a tuning solution.
ASM Tuning offers top-tier downpipes specifically engineered for performance-driven enthusiasts.
Explore our Downpipes