Ever wonder what makes your Subaru WRX’s engine roar with more power? It’s like giving your car a super-breath! Many WRX owners dream of that extra horsepower and a cooler engine sound. But when it comes to picking a cold air intake, it can feel like a maze. There are so many brands and types, and it’s tough to know which one is truly the best for your ride.
You want a better performance for your WRX, but you’re worried about picking the wrong part. Maybe you’ve heard stories of intakes that don’t fit right or don’t actually do much. It’s a common problem, and we get it. You want to spend your money wisely and get the most bang for your buck.
That’s exactly why we’re here! In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about cold air intakes for your WRX. We’ll help you understand what they do, what to look for, and how to choose the perfect one. Get ready to unlock your WRX’s true potential and make your driving experience even more exciting!
Our Top 5 Cold Air Intake For Wrx Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Cold Air Intake For Wrx Detailed Reviews
1. ANWENCHAPEY Cold Air Intake System Induction Kit Compatible With Subaru Impreza WRX STI 2002-2007 2.5L 2.0L
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your Subaru Impreza WRX STI from 2002-2007 with the ANWENCHAPEY Cold Air Intake System Induction Kit. This kit is designed to give your engine more power and a better sound. It fits both 2.5L and 2.0L engines, making it a great choice for many WRX STI owners.
What We Like:
- Fits your Subaru Impreza WRX STI from 2002-2007 (2.5L and 2.0L engines).
- Made from strong, shiny aluminum that helps keep your engine cool.
- Includes a filter you can wash and use again, saving you money over time.
- Can make your car faster, adding 7-10% more horsepower and 6-8% more torque.
- Makes your car’s acceleration feel quicker and the gas pedal more responsive.
- Installs easily without needing to cut or change any parts of your car.
What Could Be Improved:
- This product is specific to certain Subaru models and years, so it won’t fit other cars.
- While the power gains are noticeable, some enthusiasts might seek even larger increases.
The ANWENCHAPEY Cold Air Intake is a solid upgrade for your WRX STI. It offers a good balance of performance, durability, and ease of installation.
2. Mishimoto – MMAI-WRX-15BP Subaru WRX Performance Air Intake
Rating: 9.1/10
Ready to give your 2015+ Subaru WRX a serious power boost? The Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP Performance Air Intake is here to do just that. This polished intake system is designed to help your WRX breathe easier, leading to noticeable improvements in horsepower and torque. It’s a great way to upgrade your car’s performance without making huge changes.
What We Like:
- It works with the 2015 and newer Subaru WRX models.
- It gives you up to 33 more horsepower and 30 more torque when your car is on its original tune.
- With a more aggressive tune, you can get up to 70 more horsepower and 70 more torque!
- It uses your car’s original air duct, which makes installation easier.
- You can install it in less than an hour.
- It comes with a Mishimoto Lifetime Warranty for peace of mind.
- It has a CARB EO #: D-759-3, meaning it meets strict emissions standards in California.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s designed for easy installation, some users might find the instructions a bit complex if they’re not familiar with car parts.
- The most significant power gains are achieved with a more aggressive tune, which requires additional modifications and expertise.
Overall, the Mishimoto Performance Air Intake is a fantastic upgrade for your Subaru WRX. It offers impressive power gains and is backed by a solid warranty.
3. Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK Performance Cold Air Intake Kit
Rating: 9.4/10
Ready to give your 2022+ Subaru WRX a serious boost? The Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK Performance Cold Air Intake Kit is here to help. This kit is designed to fit your WRX perfectly, making installation a breeze. It’s engineered to let your engine breathe easier, unlocking more power and a thrilling sound. You’ll feel the difference when you hit the gas!
What We Like:
- It’s a direct fit for your 2022+ Subaru WRX, so it’s easy to install.
- You get real power gains of up to 13.3 HP and 16.6 lb-ft without needing to change your car’s computer tune.
- It’s dyno-tested to make sure your engine runs safely.
- It makes a cool, aggressive sound when you accelerate.
- Mishimoto offers a Lifetime Warranty, so you can trust its quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it adds power, some enthusiasts might want even bigger gains.
- The aggressive intake tone might be a bit much for drivers who prefer a quieter ride.
This Mishimoto cold air intake is a fantastic upgrade for your WRX. It delivers noticeable performance improvements and an exciting new sound, all backed by a solid warranty.
4. R&L Racing Black Cold Air Intake Kit + Filter 08-14 For Subaru Impreza WRX/STI 2.5L Turbo
Rating: 9.2/10
Give your Subaru Impreza WRX/STI the upgrade it deserves with the R&L Racing Black Cold Air Intake Kit + Filter. This brand-new kit is designed to help your engine breathe better, leading to more power and a quicker response when you hit the gas.
What We Like:
- Boosts engine performance by letting in more cold air.
- Improves throttle response for a zippier feel.
- Increases horsepower for a more exciting drive.
- Sleek black finish looks great under the hood.
- Easy to install with basic tools.
- Comes with a 60-day factory warranty for peace of mind.
- No extra parts are needed, making installation straightforward.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “explosive horsepower” claim might be a bit exaggerated for some drivers.
- While easy to install, some users might prefer more detailed instructions.
This R&L Racing Cold Air Intake Kit is a solid choice for WRX/STI owners looking for an affordable performance boost. It’s an easy way to get more out of your engine.
5. K&N Cold Air Intake System: High-Flow Air-Filter
Rating: 8.9/10
Unleash the full potential of your 2022-2023 Subaru WRX with the K&N Cold Air Intake System (69-8012TC). This system is designed to give your engine more power and a better sound. It’s built by K&N, a trusted name in automotive performance.
What We Like:
- Guaranteed Horsepower and Torque Boost: K&N’s design lets more cool, oxygen-filled air into your engine. This means your car will go faster and feel more powerful.
- Dyno Tested Results: K&N tests their intakes on a special machine called a dynamometer. They include these test results with the system so you know exactly how much power you’re getting.
- Exciting Engine Sound: When you step on the gas, your WRX will sound like it should – a deep growl. When you’re cruising, it’s quiet again.
- Better Towing and Driving: This intake improves how quickly your car responds when you press the gas. It also helps with going uphill and when towing. It’s great for daily driving and highway trips.
- Top-Notch Engine Protection: K&N guarantees this intake won’t void your car’s warranty. It also comes with a lifetime warranty, so K&N will protect it for as long as you own your WRX.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation Complexity: While not overly difficult, some users might find the installation process takes a bit of time and careful attention to detail.
- Initial Cost: As a premium performance part, the upfront cost is higher than standard air filters.
The K&N Cold Air Intake System is a fantastic upgrade for your Subaru WRX. It delivers noticeable power gains and a thrilling engine note, all while protecting your engine.
Upgrade Your WRX: The Ultimate Cold Air Intake Buying Guide
So, you want to give your Subaru WRX a little more pep? A cold air intake can be a great way to do it. This guide will help you pick the right one.
Why a Cold Air Intake for Your WRX?
Your WRX’s engine needs air to make power. A cold air intake helps your engine breathe better. It pulls in cooler air from outside your engine bay. Cooler air is denser, meaning it has more oxygen. More oxygen helps your engine burn fuel more efficiently and produce more horsepower.
Key Features to Look For
1. Intake Tube Design
Look for a smooth, mandrel-bent intake tube. This shape helps air flow without getting bumpy. Some tubes are made from plastic, while others are metal.
2. Air Filter Type
There are two main types of filters: oiled and dry.
- Oiled filters catch dirt with a sticky oil. They often offer great filtration. You need to clean and re-oil them regularly.
- Dry filters use a special material to trap dirt. They are easier to clean. Just wash them with soap and water.
3. Heat Shielding
A good heat shield blocks hot air from the engine. This is super important for keeping the air cool. Some intakes have built-in shields, while others require you to buy one separately.
4. Mounting and Fitment
Make sure the intake is made specifically for your WRX model and year. A good fit means it will install easily and work correctly.
Important Materials
Intake Tube Materials
Common materials for intake tubes are aluminum and plastic.
- Aluminum is strong and can look really cool. It can sometimes get hot if not properly shielded.
- Plastic is lighter and usually does a better job of keeping heat out.
Filter Media
Filters are usually made of cotton gauze (for oiled) or synthetic materials (for dry). Both can work well. The quality of the weave matters for how well it filters.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What Makes a Quality Intake
A well-designed intake has a smooth tube, effective heat shielding, and a high-quality filter. It should also fit your WRX perfectly. Brands that have good reviews and offer solid warranties usually make quality products.
What Can Hurt Quality
Cheap materials can break or not perform well. A poorly designed tube can restrict airflow. If an intake doesn’t have good heat shielding, it might actually pull in hot air, which hurts performance. Improper fitment can cause leaks or make installation a nightmare.
User Experience and Use Cases
What to Expect After Installation
Many WRX owners report hearing a more aggressive engine sound, especially under acceleration. You might also feel a small boost in horsepower and throttle response. Some drivers notice a slight improvement in fuel economy, but this depends on how you drive.
When to Use a Cold Air Intake
A cold air intake is great for drivers who want a bit more performance and a sportier engine sound. It’s a popular modification for WRX owners who enjoy spirited driving or plan to do other engine upgrades. It’s usually one of the first mods people do.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will a cold air intake void my WRX’s warranty?
A: It depends on the dealership and the specific issue. Some dealerships might say yes if the intake causes a problem. It’s always a good idea to check with your dealership.
Q: How much horsepower will I gain?
A: Gains vary. You might see anywhere from 5 to 15 horsepower. It also depends on your WRX model and other mods you have.
Q: Do I need to tune my WRX after installing a cold air intake?
A: For most WRX models, a tune is recommended to get the most out of a cold air intake. It helps the engine computer adjust for the new airflow.
Q: How often do I need to clean the air filter?
A: For oiled filters, check them every 10,000-15,000 miles. Dry filters might last longer between cleanings. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Can I install a cold air intake myself?
A: Yes, many intakes are designed for DIY installation. If you’re comfortable with basic tools, you can likely do it. Watch some video tutorials first.
Q: Will a cold air intake affect my gas mileage?
A: It can. If you drive more aggressively because of the new sound and power, your mileage might go down. If you drive normally, you might see a slight improvement.
Q: What’s the difference between a cold air intake and a short ram intake?
A: A cold air intake pulls air from outside the engine bay, usually lower down. A short ram intake pulls air from closer to the engine, often using a heat shield.
Q: Are there specific brands that are better for WRX?
A: Many brands make good intakes for WRX. Popular ones include Cobb, Injen, and K&N. Look for brands with good reviews for your specific WRX year.
Q: Will a cold air intake make my WRX louder?
A: Yes, most cold air intakes will make your WRX engine sound more aggressive, especially when you accelerate.
Q: Do I need to change anything else on my WRX for a cold air intake to work best?
A: While not always required, a tune is highly recommended for optimal performance and to ensure the engine runs correctly with the new airflow.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!