The addition of an aftermarket exhaust system to your Volkswagen MK7 GTI can radically transform your car. The seventh-generation performance VW hatchback sounds decent enough, but many enthusiasts and tuners still aren’t satisfied. And can’t really blame them, can we? A hot hatch that can compete with other hatchbacks like the Ford Focus or Ford Fiesta needs to sound good – no questions asked.
To make your car sound a whole lot better, you can employ the help of aftermarket MK7 GTI exhaust systems. These performance modifications can add more flavor and tastefulness to the sound your car produces. Regardless of what sound level you want, may it be loud and overly aggressive or rich and deep, we’re sure that there’s one waiting for you. The only question now is what’s the best one that would serve your taste.
Come check out the list we’ve made below. In this list, you’ll see what we think are the best MK7 GTI exhaust systems available in the market today. They may vary in price, materials, design, and sound level, but all of them can bring you the best value for your money.
#1 Borla S-Type Cat-Back Exhaust System
- Manufacturer: Borla
- Part Number: 140750
- Sound Level: Moderate
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
Borla offers some of the best-sounding exhausts in the market today. Many people know them for their ATAK exhaust, probably one of the best ones when it comes to sound quality. Some enthusiasts don’t like it though, because it’s too loud for their tastes. So for hot hatch lovers who want to keep things in moderation, we give you the S-Type Cat-Back Exhaust System.
This MK7 GTI Borla exhaust was crafted from T-304 stainless steel for some extra degree of corrosion resistance. It offers an increased tubing diameter of 3.0” to help the burnt gases quickly exit the combustion chamber. Attached to the ends are two 4.0”” exhaust tips. These components come with a polished finish to make the entirety of the exhaust simple yet classy.
The S-Type sports a moderate yet satisfactory tone, unlike its ATAK exhaust counterpart. It can be silent when you’re on idle, but you’ll hear the beast within a roar once you go full throttle. Expect it to sound deep and sporty, like a proper sports hatchback. Once you drive it, however, there may be a little bit of drone, but it’s not that persistent. The drone is manageable enough to the point that it’s negligible.
#2 AWE Tuning Track Edition Exhaust
- Manufacturer: AWE Tuning
- Part Number: 3020-32022
- Sound Level: Moderate
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
The AWE Tuning Track Edition Exhaust is one of the most popular exhaust systems in the community. Many enthusiasts love it because of how awesome it sounds, even if it’s attached to a stock downpipe. The sound you’d hear is nice, throaty, and not annoying. For its price, the value you’d get from it is no doubt worth the money.
So what makes this exhaust system so desirable? There are some good reasons why you need to consider getting this exhaust system. For starters, AWE Tuning claims that you can gain as much as 21hp and 24lb-ft of torque without even a tune. They made their claim based on the result of their dyno tests made from their in-house MK7 GTI. Installation is relatively easy too, even with basic hand tools.
This exhaust system is undoubtedly for enthusiasts who want to crank it up to 11. Keep in mind that the AWE Tuning Track Edition Exhaust uses the same engineering techniques used to create the Touring Edition.
#3 CORSA Performance Sport Sound Level Cat-Back Exhaust
- Manufacturer: Corsa Performance
- Part Number: 14834BLK
- Sound Level: Aggressive
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2015-2018)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2018)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2018)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
Seasoned enthusiasts would know that the Corsa Performance is one of the best providers of performance exhaust systems out there. Their exhaust, particularly the Sports Sound Level, is simply one of the best exhausts for the MK7 GTI. The kind of sound it produces is just too eargasmic to ignore, and the quality of its build is something you shouldn’t miss.
The Corsa Performance Sport Sound Level Cat-Back Exhaust is made for enthusiasts who want their cars to sound slightly louder than usual. Its pipes are more prominent in diameter, and it outflows the stock exhaust by about 76%. This exhaust also slashes a couple or more pounds to make itself much lighter than the stock. At the end of this aftermarket exhaust is a terrific-looking black exhaust tip that adds style points to your car whenever you look at it from the rear.
The prevailing reason why enthusiasts opt for the Sports Sound Level Cat-Back is its lack of drone. Such an annoying sound can ruin the fun of driving, and it can drive you mad if you try to tolerate it for a long time. But thanks to Corsa Performance’s RSC Technology, the drone is eliminated, giving you a much more enjoyable ride without any annoying sound to grind your gears.
#4 XForce Varex Valved Exhaust System Kit
- Manufacturer: XForce
- Part Number: ES-VW08-VMK-CBS
- Sound Level: Moderate
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2015-2018)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2018)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2018)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
XForce is an Australian manufacturer that employs a specific innovation that makes their exhaust system simply phenomenal. Their MK7 GTI exhaust systems, particularly the Varex Exhaust System Kit, can add more flavor and character to your already fantastic hot hatch. Because of the technology integrated into this exhaust system, driving can certainly be more fun and enjoyable.
So what’s with the XForce Varex Valved Exhaust System Kit? To put it simply, it’s “built differently” from the rest of the exhausts mentioned on this list because of the use of Varex Technology. XForce Varex mufflers use sophisticated electronic butterfly valves to direct the flow of exhaust gases within the muffler.
When the valves are open, the exhaust flows to the path with the least resistance. By doing so, the muffler acts more like a straight-through muffler that emits a richly deep, throaty, and race exhaust sound. But when the valves are closed, the exhaust gas has no choice but to go through the chambered parts of the muffler. This will then result in a classic, mellow, and street-friendly exhaust note.
This level of uniqueness is ideal for enthusiasts who have a knack for personalizing both the power and sound levels of their hatchbacks.
#5 aFe MACH Force-XP Cat-Back Exhaust System
- Manufacturer: aFe Power
- Part Number: 49-36418-C
- Sound Level: Moderate
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2018)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2018)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
Another brand to look out for when it comes to aftermarket MK7 GTI exhaust systems is aFe Power. The aftermarket exhaust systems they offer actually provide some decent horsepower and torque gains. They sound really lovely too, not to mention how they look terrific once installed. Their exhaust systems, particularly the MACH Force-XP, are simply a substantial modification that deserves attention.
The MACH Force-XP is a cat-back exhaust system that can give you dyno-proven performance gains of about 15 hp and 19l b-ft of torque. wIt features 3.0”” to 2.25”” stainless steel pipes to ensure that the exhaust gas flow is much better than stock. The use of a 304 stainless steel muffler ensures that the exhaust note this system creates is smooth and satisfactory.
A part of this exhaust system that deserves more attention is its tips. Attached to the tailpipes are two 4.0”” stainless steel exhaust tips encircled with carbon fiber where the aFe Power logo sticks. The combination of carbon fiber on stainless steel exhaust tips (with aFe Power logo) can make the rear end of your car a sight for sore eyes.
#6 MagnaFlow Touring Series Exhaust System
- Manufacturer: Magnaflow
- Part Number: 19435
- Sound Level: Moderate
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2018-2021)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Rabbit Edition (2019)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2018-2021)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2018-2021)
Magnaflow exhausts are usually the common alternative some enthusiasts opt for when they want something cheaper but effective. Because of the build quality and smooth satisfactory sound quality that Magnaflow’s exhausts exhibit, it’s no surprise that enthusiasts flock to them. They offer the Touring Series Exhaust System for the Volkswagen MK7 GTI , a kit that combines a solid build quality and pleasant moderate sound that Magnaflow is known for.
The Magnaflow Touring Series Exhaust System features highly corrosion-resistant pipings made from stainless steel. These pipings provide a smoother pathway for the exhaust gases to flow into, which the stock exhaust can’t do. These mandrel-bent pipes are more prominent and connect to a straight-through muffler, enabling a touring level sound output that doesn’t garner unwarranted attention.
Perhaps the selling point of this MK7 GTI exhaust system is how well it sounds. The term “Touring” is a common exhaust nomenclature that means moderate. Magnaflow engineered this kit to emit a smooth, rich, and deep exhaust note ideal for daily driving. A wide-open power accompanies the sound quality of this exhaust system, a deadly combo for enthusiasts who want to do chill drives while sounding awesome.
#7 APR Cat-Back Exhaust
- Manufacturer: APR
- Part Number: CBK0001
- Sound Level: Moderate
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
APR exhausts are just one of the favorite exhausts of the MK7 GTI community. If you’ve looked into the forum, you’ll see how many positive remarks enthusiasts have about APR. Features such as free-flowing pipings, fantastic sound, stunning style, and aesthetic appeal are just some of the common reasons people who own an MK7 GTI would gravitate to an APR Cat-Back Exhaust.
The APR Cat-Back Exhaust System consists of parts like T-304 stainless steel pipes, which are welded beautifully using TIG welding. A straight-through muffler adorned with a satin finish is configurable, without the presence of raspiness or drone. The kit even comes with excellent OE-style clamps that are strong enough to hold the exhaust system in place. Finally, some removable 4.0”” satin-finished exhaust tips add a level of classy race-inspired touch to the rear end of your car.
Perhaps the biggest reason so many enthusiasts love this exhaust system is its reconfigurability. It may sound a bit moderate on its own, but once you remove the front mufflers and equip it with an APR downpipe, you’ll see how terrific this exhaust system will sound. Another reason to pick up this exhaust system is its low-profile design.
If you’ve done some suspension upgrades on your car, then this cat-back is no doubt a great addition.
#8 Remus Racing Catback Exhaust System (Front Silencer Delete)
- Manufacturer: Remus
- Part Number: 955513-1500
- Sound Level: Aggressive/Loud
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
All of the MK7 GTI exhaust systems we’ve mentioned so far only produce moderate sound output, so it’s about time we bring in the big guns. If you’ve got the budget to splurge on and you want something loud and aggressive, then you should check out the Remus Racing Cat-Back Exhaust System. It looks good, sounds great, and is undoubtedly one of the best when it comes to performance gains.
The Remus Racing Cat-Back Exhaust System can bring in three things. First is style and build quality. Its classy shot-blasted surface adds a lot of style points to your hatchback. The second is the sound. Instead of a front silencer, you’d get a racing tube, which frees up the loud and aggressive beast that’s been hiding under your car.
The third is cutting-edge technology. Remus engineers made this exhaust system work in perfect harmony with your stock catalytic converter. It also significantly reduces the present back pressure on your car and optimizes the flow of the existing gases to favor power and torque.
This kit includes a racking tube, a connection tube, a sport exhaust (w/o tailpipes), two integrated electrical valves, actuators, and remote control module, and a 3.0”” pipe.
#9 Invidia Q300 Titanium Tip Cat-Back Exhaust System
- Manufacturer: Invidia
- Part Number: HS13GF7G3T
- Sound Level: Moderate
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
Upgrading into a performance exhaust system doesn’t mean you’d have to break the bank. There are still some relatively affordable exhaust systems out there that can still bring you the best value for your money, just like the Invidia Q300 Cat-Back Exhaust System. The sound quality it produces is just slightly louder than stock, which is perfect if you want to drive daily incivility without receiving a noise complaint ticket.
The Invidia Q300 Cat-Back Exhaust System uses a 3.0” mandrel-bent SUS304 stainless steel piping, ensuring the exhaust gases get expelled from the system as smoothly as possible. This piping is durable and provides an elegant and stylish polish that will definitely look great on your car.
What’s more, this MK7 GTI exhaust system comes with titanium tips. The two exhaust tips might look boring at first, but once you drive it around for some time, you’ll see a blue tinge that just simply looks terrific.
So far, there aren’t any negative comments about this exhaust system, so it’s safe to say it’s not your average run-of-the-mill aftermarket exhaust system.
#10 Akrapovic Titanium Evolution Race Exhaust
- Manufacturer: Akrapović
- Part Number: S-VW/T/2
- Sound Level: Aggressive
- Vehicle Fitment:
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Autobahn (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI S (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI SE (2015-2017)
- Volkswagen MK7 GTI Sport (2017)
If you have a palate for the finer things in life and you really want the best exhaust system for your Volkswagen MK7 GTI, then come take a look at our last entry: the Akrapović Titanium Evolution Race Exhaust. Akrapović are notorious for their light, powerful, and wildly aggressive titanium exhaust systems. This exhaust system may be costly, but we’re sure that it’s well worth your money.
The Akrapović Titanium Evolution Race Exhaust is a premium aftermarket performance modification that adds a lot of value to your car, quite literally. Akrapović’s use of titanium ensures that this exhaust system is lighter and much more durable than all of the exhaust systems on this list. Aside from durability and weight reduction, it also provides a substantial amount of performance gains: 11.7 hp and 11.8 lb-ft of torque, to be exact.
Sound-wise, this exhaust system sounds terrific. Its appearance is to die for, too. The only complaint many MK7 GTI owners have, though, is that it’s too expensive. If only Akrapović made a stainless steel version of this exhaust that harbors the same eargasmic sound, then everyone would be happy. Perfection does come at a pretty steep price, quite literally.