An RS3 Downpipe is the best-known bolt-on for the 2.5 TFSI, and that’s no coincidence. The five-cylinder engine in the Audi RS3 8.5V (facelift, 400 pk) and 8Y, the TTRS 8S and the RSQ3 F3 responds extremely well to increased flow, and it is precisely the factory Downpipe with catalytic converter that is the biggest restriction in the entire exhaust system. But a Downpipe on its own isn’t the whole story: if you’re serious about power, you’ll combine it with an Air Intake and a larger Intercooler. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all three bolt-on upgrades and the correct order in which to fit them.
Why the Downpipe is the first hardware upgrade
The OEM Downpipe restricts the turbo immediately after the turbine housing. Greater back pressure means slower flushing, higher exhaust gas temperatures and less scope for the tuner to run boost safely. The ENDURA V2 4-inch Downpipe solves this with a full 4-inch diameter from the turbo, fitting DAZA, DNWA and DNWC engines, both OPF and non-OPF. Please note: this is for the 8.5V facelift and newer models; this Downpipe does not fit the pre-facelift 8V. The result: faster response, more peak power when combined with a Stage 2 remap, and that raw five-cylinder sound for which the 2.5 TFSI is famous. To be fair, it’s important to note that a decat Downpipe is intended for track and show use only, and not for use on public roads.
Air Intake: the five-cylinder needs air
On the Intake side, it’s the same story. The standard airbox is designed for quiet everyday driving, not for a 2.5 TFSI running at increased boost. The ENDURA Air Intake 5-inch Extreme gives the engine a much larger Intake passage, reduces resistance to the turbo and keeps Intake air temperatures (IAT) more stable under load. An added bonus: a rich induction sound at full throttle, without the drone driving you mad inside the car.
ENDURA Air Intake 5" Extreme RS3 / TTRS / RSQ3
View productIntercooler: consistent power delivery instead of heat soak
At Stage 2, the turbo pumps significantly more air, and the standard Intercooler quickly becomes saturated. The result is heat soak: after two or three hard runs, the Intake temperatures rise and the software reduces power output. A larger competition Intercooler keeps the IAT low even during repeated full-throttle runs, ensuring your power remains constant rather than just on the first run. For the 2.5 TFSI, we recommend the Wagner Tuning Competition kits: the EVO3 for the RS3 8V and TTRS 8S, and the Competition kit for the RS3 8Y.
The correct order: how to build it up
Stage 1 is purely software-based and works perfectly on standard hardware. If you want to go further, this is the logical route. Start with the Downpipe plus a Stage 2 remap, as this offers the greatest gain per euro. Immediately after that, fit the intercooler, as this maintains the gains from Stage 2 under load. The Air Intake completes the package with better response, lower IAT and a great sound. If you want to complete the exhaust system, combine the Downpipe with the ENDURA Midpipe for maximum flow towards the rear silencer. All ENDURA parts are supplied with fitting kit and are plug-and-play on the platforms mentioned.
Not sure which version suits your model year? Send us a message with your registration number or engine code and we’ll sort it out for you.
Ready for Stage 2 on your 2.5 TFSI?
Downpipes, intakes and intercoolers for the RS3, TTRS and RSQ3 are available from stock. Order today for fast delivery across Europe.
ENDURA V2 Downpipe ENDURA 5" Intake