BMW’s firebreathing M Series’ have been the flagships of the 3 and 4 Series lineups for almost 4 decades, and they’ve carved out one of the most respected high performance reputations in all of automotivedom. It’s the fifth generation M3s and M4s however, the N55-powered F8Xs, that are destined to be remembered as their most ferocious iteration; and aftermarket manufacturers haven’t been remiss in recognizing that these future classics are chocked full of present-day potential.
Exhaust swaps are one of the most compelling aftermarket mods that you can make, and F8Xs are among the most receptive exhaust recipients around. The factory outputs on these turbocharged inline-6s are effortlessly capable of exceeding 320kW, and high flow exhaust systems are the easy path to unleashing even more of their power.
XFORCE exhausts are the perfect match for M Series power
Let’s be honest: unlike the well-behaved executive-class performance coupes and sedans that have hit the market over the last decade, F8Xs are anything but gentlemanly. They’re guttural machines that can turn on the power with the speed of a charging flanker, which is why dyno tuned high performance exhaust systems from NSW’s XFORCE are the leading choice for getting that power to the ground. The differences between aftermarket exhausts can be as staggering as the range of F8X power package options; but with an upgraded XFORCE system, you can be sure that your M3 or M4 is outfitted with the best match for the N55’s instantaneous power curve, and proudly producing an audible note that’s befitting of the F8X’s ferocity.
100% Aussie manufactured XFORCE catback performance exhaust systems are designed for F8X owners who relish the experience of driving one of the highest compression turbo powerplants ever built by BMW, and they’re engineered specifically to:
- Scavenge as much unwanted heat and exhaust gas away from the engine as possible;
- Increase exhaust velocity throughout the entire system; and,
- Reduce power-robbing backpressure to an absolute minimum.
Make no mistake: XFORCE aftermarket exhaust systems are the perfect complement to the F8X’s legendary neck-snapping throttle response; and depending on the engine package that an M3 or M4 is equipped with, an XFORCE system can instantly increase the F8X’s power output by as much as 20kW, and torque by more than 20Nm. These are impressive power and performance gains without any other mods, and they can produce even bigger results when combined only with ECU tuning.
Street legal exhaust systems that are built to perform
XFORCE performance exhausts are constructed from dual length 304 stainless steel tubing, and feature a range of premium quality build attributes that include:
- 2.5“ inlet / outlet, or 2.5“ inlet / 3.0“ outlet configurations;
- Mandrel bent radiuses throughout the entire system;
- A twin hot dog resonator centre section;
- Flush welded joints and flanges; and,
- A brushed or polished surface finish.
These corrosion resistant performance exhaust systems even boast a moderate weight advantage over BMW’s standard, and special order M-Performance exhaust systems: a difference that’s instantly recognizable if you’re using your F8X for competition. You can even order an F8X performance exhaust online in either a mid pipe configuration or together with one of XFORCE’s patented Varex™ mufflers, allowing you to custom tune your F8X’s exhaust system to meet every on, and off road contingency.
Fine tune your BMW’s exhaust flow with a Varex™ muffler
XFORCE’s Varex sport mufflers represent one of the biggest innovations in modern performance exhaust system engineering. These butterfly valve equipped, remote-controllable mufflers combine the street legal sound absorbing qualities of the F8X’s factory muffler with the ultra high flow characteristics of a pure racing exhaust muffler, giving drivers the ability to regulate both their exhaust flow and sound with just the press of a button.
Varex mufflers make it possible to tune your exhaust’s performance according to the type of driving you’re doing, and feature 3-mode operation that includes:
- Street Mode. In this mode, the Varex’s butterfly valve directs exhaust gas and sound waves through the muffler just as it would with a factory muffler.
- In Between Mode. This mode allows the valve to open partially, allowing a noticeable increase in exhaust gas flow as well as a more aggressive sound.
- Race Mode. In race mode, the valve opens fully, allowing exhaust gases and sound waves to flow through the muffler with virtually no restrictions.
F8X owners also have the ability to control a Varex either by its handheld remote, via Bluetooth connectivity with a smart device, or through the optional M3 / M4 Smartbox controller. Automatic Bluetooth and Smartbox controls even make it possible to set up the Varex to open and close according to engine RPM, throttle position, or vehicle speed, giving driver’s complete control over the F8X’s performance and exhaust note without ever taking hands off the wheel.
The final word
At the end of the day, while BMW has used the M Series designation on practically off of its cars, the power, weight, and agility of the F8X M3s and M4s have arguably earned them the honour of being the most potent M Series sportscars ever built. They’re incredibly responsive to upgrades that allow them to breathe better though, and free flowing exhaust systems are at the top of the list.
XFORCE high performance exhaust systems are engineered especially for the high revving power curve of the F8X’s turbocharged N55. They make the most capable exhaust system for the 3 and 4 Series’ most capable engine, and they’re the most cost effective investment you can make in F8X performance.
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