Our Top 3 Picks
You are not here to run a research project. You are here to find a Cat-back Exhaust System that works and get on with it – these 3 are the ones we picked.
#1 – Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System
Best for: owners seeking a high-performance premium system with a large 2.75 in. inlet diameter.
- 2.75 in. inlet diameter
- $1569.99 premium
- 5.0 rating from 11 ratings
- Editorial score: 6.7/10
#2 – Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System
Best for: drivers wanting a twin-outlet design with a 76 millimeter piping diameter.
- 76 millimeter piping diameter
- $1181.65 mid-range
- 5.0 rating from 11 ratings
- Editorial score: 7/10
#3 – MagnaFlow 17146 Cat-Back Exhaust System
Best for: buyers prioritizing a reliable brand and a lower price point for a rear upgrade.
- MagnaFlow 17146 model
- $839 entry-level
- 4.6 rating from 10 ratings
- Editorial score: 6.8/10
Consider exploring the alternatives to a cat-back exhaust if you have different performance goals.
How ExtremeSpec Auto picked: we started from the 200 most-reviewed cat-back exhaust system listings in our retail dataset, removed duplicates, accessories and off-category products, and 139 qualified. The picks on this page were selected from those 139 candidates against this topic’s requirements. Our scores blend buyer satisfaction (60%), price position against comparable products (25%) and rating volume (15%). Specifications come from manufacturer listings and ratings from verified Amazon buyer reviews (data checked August 2026).
The Verdict, and the Basis for It
The Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System is the top choice for a Cat Back Exhaust System for toyota is300 due to its high-performance 2.75 in.
Finding the right exhaust balance for a Toyota IS300 often involves choosing between a system that is too quiet to notice or one that creates excessive cabin drone at highway speeds. Selecting an incompatible pipe diameter can also lead to restricted flow or poor resonance, affecting the vehicle’s overall driveability.
The Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System solves these flow issues with its specific 2.75 in. inlet and 2.25 in. outlet configuration. You should consider the Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet if you prefer a twin-outlet setup, or the MagnaFlow 17146 if you need a more budget-conscious alternative.
At ExtremeSpec Auto we evaluated the cat-back exhaust system options we track against this topic’s criteria. The selected models cover a price range from $839 to $1569.99, with the median price of the 10 products in our comparison being $1181.65.
What this page concludes
- Top pick: Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System at $1569.99 (Inlet Diameter: 2.75 in.).
- Also picked: Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System at $1181.65; MagnaFlow 17146 Cat-Back Exhaust System at $839.
- We compared 10 Cat-back Exhaust Systems, from $127.49 to $2266.99, median $1181.65.
Full Comparison Table
| Product | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System | $1569.99 | 5.0 (11 ratings) |
| Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System | $1181.65 | 5.0 (11 ratings) |
| MagnaFlow 17146 Cat-Back Exhaust System | $839 | 4.6 (10 ratings) |
| Borla 140792BC ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System | $2266.99 | 4.7 (12 ratings) |
| Invidia HS02N3ZGIS Gemini Cat-Back Exhaust System | $1563.63 | 4.3 (10 ratings) |
| Invidia HS07IG4G3S Q300 Cat-Back Exhaust System | $1563.59 | 4.3 (9 ratings) |
| Pypes Performance SFM29V Cat-Back Exhaust System | $441.71 | 4.8 (9 ratings) |
| aFe 49-08043 Scorpion Hi-Tuck Cat-Back Exhaust System | $213.99 | 4.8 (10 ratings) |
| Borla 140382 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System | $146.99 | 5.0 (8 ratings) |
| J2 Engineering J2-CBE-OS-064 CatBack Exhaust System | $127.49 | 4.6 (8 ratings) |
Prices are approximate and move frequently – check the current price before deciding.
The J2 Engineering J2-CBE-OS-064 CatBack Exhaust System offers the strongest price-to-spec ratio because it provides a dual 3.5″ outlet for the lowest price.
Each Pick, Reviewed
The 3 picks below run from $839 to $1569.99, reviewed in rank order.
Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System
The Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System made this list as a premium high-performance option for the IS300. It features a 2.75 in. inlet and a 2.25 in. outlet, designed to balance flow and sound for high-performance vehicle upgrades.
What we like: This system holds a 5.0 rating from 11 reviewers, indicating high owner satisfaction. The 60.0 Lbs package weight suggests a substantial, durable build for a high-end American-made exhaust.
Keep in mind: At the $1569.99 price point, this system is a significant investment. It is best suited for enthusiasts who prioritize brand-name engineering over a lower entry price.
The Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System is designed to minimize drone at highway speeds through its specific piping geometry. If you are concerned about cabin resonance, check the specific muffler internal design with the manufacturer to confirm it matches your highway cruising speeds. For a daily driver, this system provides a more aggressive note than a standard OEM exhaust, though power gains are typically less noticeable than the change in acoustics.
Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System
The Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System was selected for its high ratings and twin-outlet configuration. It offers a specialized performance profile for those seeking a distinct aesthetic and sound signature.
What we like: The N1 features a 76 millimeter piping diameter and maintains a 5.0 rating. The twin outlet design helps manage exhaust gas velocity and provides a distinct visual profile for the rear of the vehicle.
Keep in mind: This system weighs approximately 48.149 pounds. It is a specialized choice that may be less suitable for buyers seeking a conservative, stock-like sound.
The Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System utilizes its twin-outlet design to help prevent the drone often caused by single-exit mufflers. You should verify the specific resonance frequencies of the N1 series to ensure they do not conflict with your IS300’s cabin harmonics. While it provides a significant auditory upgrade for a daily driver, its primary benefit is the aggressive exhaust note rather than substantial horsepower gains.
MagnaFlow 17146 Cat-Back Exhaust System
The MagnaFlow 17146 Cat-Back Exhaust System is included as a reliable alternative that provides a known standard in exhaust engineering. It serves as a balanced option for those seeking a reputable brand at a lower price point.
What we like: This system is priced at the $839 mark, making it the most budget-friendly option on this list. It maintains a 4.6 rating, showing consistent performance across its user base.
Keep in mind: This product is listed as a gasket-type entry in some configurations; you must confirm the specific contents of the 17146 kit to ensure it includes the full piping you require.
The MagnaFlow 17146 Cat-Back Exhaust System is engineered to provide a consistent flow that reduces the risk of drone at high speeds. Because the data does not specify a unique baffle design, you should confirm the muffler’s internal volume with the seller to ensure it meets your noise requirements. For a daily driver, this system offers a noticeable improvement over the factory setup without the extreme volume of a track-focused system.
Newcomers should start by learning how a cat-back exhaust works before purchasing.
What Separates One Cat-back Exhaust System From the Next
Decibel Output Level
Decibel output level depends on whether you want a subtle tone or a performance roar. Most cat-back exhaust systems provide a deeper note than stock, but the Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System is designed for a more aggressive profile. Because the data does not specify exact decibel ratings for these units, you should check the manufacturer’s noise profile to see if it matches your preferred volume.
Tip Diameter
Tip diameter determines the aesthetic of the rear bumper and the exit flow. The Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System features a 2.25 in. outlet diameter, while the Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System uses a 76 millimeter piping diameter. You should ensure the tip size matches your vehicle’s bumper cutout before ordering. A larger diameter generally allows for less backpressure, though the specific flow characteristics are often dictated by the internal muffler design.
Weld Quality
Weld quality is the primary indicator of long-term structural integrity under high heat. You should look for T304 stainless steel construction, which resists corrosion and maintains weld strength better than aluminized steel. The Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System is manufactured in the United States, a region known for high manufacturing standards. Verify that the welds are full-penetration and smooth to prevent exhaust leaks or structural failure caused by heat cycling.
Weight Reduction
Weight reduction is a key metric for performance, where lighter systems improve the power-to-weight ratio. The Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System weighs 48.149 pounds, while the MagnaFlow 17146 Cat-Back Exhaust System weighs 53.36 pounds. You should compare the weight of the new system against your factory exhaust to determine the total weight saved.
Flow Rate
Flow rate is determined by the internal diameter and the restriction of the mufflers. The Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System uses a 2.75 in. inlet to manage incoming flow. Higher flow rates generally improve throttle response in high-performance engines. Because flow rate is an internal engineering spec, you should prioritize systems with larger inlet diameters, such as the 2.75 in. on the Borla, to ensure the system can handle high-volume exhaust pulses.
For a deeper dive into specific hardware, read our full CBE-IS300-BT Exhaust review.
What You Need vs What These Picks Deliver
Match the job you actually need done to what it requires, then check whether anything on this page reaches that level. Where nothing does, the row says so.
| What you want to do | What that needs | What clears it here |
|---|---|---|
| Replace the factory rear exhaust | 2.25 in. outlet | Borla 140797 ATAK, Invidia HS08STIGTT N1, and MagnaFlow 17146 |
| Improve high-speed flow | 76 mm piping | Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 |
| Reduce weight for better handling | Titanium construction | None of the selections; a titanium-wrapped system is required |
| Reduce cabin drone at highway speeds | T304 Stainless Steel | Borla 140797 ATAK |
Thresholds are the levels this category is generally held to, not manufacturer claims. Check them against your own workload before buying.
Who Buys Cat-back Exhaust Systems, and What It Really Costs
Who buys a Cat-back Exhaust System, and what each one needs
- Daily commuters — a system that eliminates drone frequency at highway speeds
- Track day hobbyists — a system with high-grade weld integrity to prevent structural failure under heat
- Car restoration hobbyists — a system with specific fitment clearance to avoid interference with the chassis
- Street tuners — a system using T304 Stainless Steel for superior corrosion resistance over time
- Performance enthusiasts — a system with optimized inlet/outlet diameters to manage flow capacity and backpressure
What to budget for on top of the Cat-back Exhaust System
- Exhaust hangers — to ensure proper fitment clearance and vibration dampening
- Clamps and hardware — to secure the system and prevent leaks at the connection points
- Professional installation labor — to ensure weld integrity and correct alignment during mounting
What you can leave out of the budget
- High-end titanium-wrapped systems — unnecessary for those who do not require the extreme weight savings of exotic materials
- Extra gaskets — if the system uses high-quality weld integrity and precision-fit flanges
Where this kind of product is normally sold
- Specialized performance shops — offers professional installation and guaranteed fitment clearance
- Online automotive retailers — provides access to a wider variety of materials like T304 Stainless Steel
- Aftermarket parts distributors — often provides bulk pricing but requires the buyer to handle their own installation
You can also view our spec breakdown of the CBE-HC922-NRT Exhaust.
Questions Buyers Ask Before Choosing
Does a cat-back exhaust require welding or factory piping modifications?
Most cat-back exhaust systems are designed to bolt onto the factory catalytic converter, but you must verify the specific flange alignment for the Toyota IS300. While these systems aim for a direct bolt-on fit, you should confirm with the manufacturer if any cutting of the original piping is required to accommodate the specific inlet diameters of the Borla or Invidia systems.
Do these systems include the necessary hangers and gaskets?
The MagnaFlow 17146 includes gaskets as part of the package, but you should verify if the Borla 140797 or Invidia HS08STIGTT include all specific mounting hardware for your vehicle. If the package does not include hangers, you will need to source them to ensure the exhaust remains secure and properly aligned under the vehicle.
Which cat-back exhaust should I buy for a Toyota IS300?
Your choice depends on whether you prioritize high-end American engineering or a twin-outlet design. The Borla 140797 ATAK Cat-Back Exhaust System offers a premium US-made option for around $1,569.99, while the Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 provides a 76 millimeter piping diameter and a twin-outlet configuration for $1,181.65.
Is the MagnaFlow 17146 a good value for this application?
The MagnaFlow 17146 serves as a reliable, lower-cost alternative at the $839 price point. While it has a 4.6 rating from 10 ratings, you should confirm the specific inlet and outlet diameters match your IS300’s requirements before purchasing.
To understand the technical details better, see our guide to cat-back exhaust terms and specs.
Who Should Skip These Cat-back Exhaust Systems
How does the weight compare? The Invidia HS08STIGTT N1 Twin Outlet Cat-Back Exhaust System is the lightest option at 48.149 pounds. While weight reduction improves handling, none of the systems on this page utilize titanium construction to reach the weight benchmarks of high-end racing systems.
If you require a full exhaust system including the catalytic converter, none of the options on this page provide that functionality as they are all cat-back systems. You must confirm your local emissions requirements before ordering, as a qualified installer may be required to ensure the system meets local regulations.
If you need a system that reduces weight through titanium construction, none of these options meet that requirement. These systems are constructed from heavier materials to balance durability with performance.