The Toyota Tacoma has been America’s best-selling mid-size pickup for 16 years in a row, and has been outselling the nearest two competitors by more than two-to-one just last year. How did the Japanese automaker achieve this feat? Well, the Toyota Tacoma did not get there by following others. Instead, it set the groundwork for its overwhelming success by offering a wide range of models to appeal to just about any pickup truck buyer. Six model trims include the work-ready SR; high-style, high-value SR5; athletic TRD Sport; adventurous TRD Off-Road; ultimate off-road TRD Pro; and luxurious Limited.
With that, some Tacoma owners want to further enhance their truck by taking advantage of the plentiful aftermarket products available for the mid-size pickup. One of the most popular mods to do is upgrade the Tacoma’s exhaust system. Replacing the OEM cat-back on your truck is recommended for a number of reasons, because it is a great way to increase the power, styling, sound, and performance of your vehicle. Swapping out the restrictive, quiet factory exhaust with a free-flowing aftermarket upgrade will take your Tacoma to the next level with improved styling, an enhanced soundtrack, higher power figures, and better fuel efficiency.
Here, we have listed the top 5 cat-back exhausts for your third-gen (2016+) Toyota Tacoma based on the aforementioned factors. These are in no particular order and check all of the boxes that pertain to a quality system that looks good, sounds great, and is fully functional. Be sure to also check out the other exhaust systems available for your third-generation Toyota Tacoma truck right here.
1. Borla S-Type Cat-Back Exhaust System
The& Borla S-Type Cat-Back Exhaust with Single Side Exit is a top choice for your Toyota Tacoma because it provides increased power figures, an enhanced soundtrack, improved performance, and good looks in a high-strength package. Alex Borla actually coined the term “cat back” when he introduced the bolt-on replacement performance exhaust back in 1978. All Borla cat-back systems use vehicle-specific (not universal) mufflers that are designed, tested, and optimized for your make and model to deliver the highest levels of overall sound and performance.
Borla S-Type Mufflers (like the one featured in this product) are engineered to provide exceptional exhaust emission and internal power generation. These mufflers use multi-core technology and are manufactured from T-304 corrosion-resistant stainless steel which offers long-lasting durability. They are equipped with ultra-smooth mandrel bends that ensure maximum flow and power. The design reduces pressure build-up that could dampen the engine’s performance, thereby giving you better horsepower and torque numbers.
The Borla S-Type exhaust is perfect for those looking to enjoy a more aggressive exhaust note that will stop people in their tracks. With a black chrome T-304 stainless steel exhaust tip, this exhaust not only delivers in performance but also in aesthetics. Lastly, the entire system has been precision CNC-machined to guarantee a precise fit without any issues to provide a seamless installation.
Features:
- Increases horsepower and torque
- Better fuel economy at cruising speeds
- S-Type provides an aggressive exhaust tone
- Straight-through muffler design reduces backpressure
- Mandrel-bent stainless steel tubes reduce restriction
- Made from austenitic stainless steel for long-lasting durability
- Fully welded construction for the ultimate strength
- Exhaust tips come in polished and black chrome options
- Includes everything required for installation
- Backed by the exclusive Borla Million-Mile warranty
2. MBRP XP Series 3-Inch Cat-Back Exhaust
The XP Series Cat-Back from MBRP is a budget-friendly entry into stainless steel exhaust systems. Rugged and dependable, this system is crafted from T409 stainless steel and built to withstand even the harshest of road/off-road conditions (i.e. salt, grime, rocks). One of the first things you’ll notice is the rich, mellow sound delivered by the chambered muffler. The second is the improved performance as reduced backpressure and improved scavenging let your Tacoma engine push out more horsepower and torque. Last, but not least, you’ll notice that there is more money in your pocket after you fill the tank.
MBRP’s exhausts are designed to maximize exhaust flow and minimize exhaust temperatures so your truck will use less gas and perform better. Built to the most exacting standards in the industry, MBRP cat-back exhausts are designed with fully mandrel-bent tubing and minimal bend degree angles to get exhaust out fast. The result is an increase in horsepower, torque, and overall sound. This exhaust system, like others from the brand, has been specifically tuned to get the optimal sound from your pickup.
You can also rest assured that your MBRP exhaust system has undergone countless hours on the company’s in-house Mustang 1100 AWD-SE Chassis Dynamometer, hundreds of miles on the road and track, and numerous modifications to get the most out of your Tacoma. The XP Series 3-Inch Cat-Back with Dual Split Side Rear Exit is the performance exhaust of choice for enthusiasts who need a system that can take anything the road throws at it. The rugged 16-gauge T409 stainless steel construction is so tough that MBRP backs it up with an industry-leading Lifetime Warranty.
Features:
- T409 Stainless steel piping
- Heavy-duty overall construction
- Improves performance and efficiency
- 3” to dual 2.5” mandrel-bent tubing
- Cat-back with dual split rear side exit
- Easy direct-fit, bolt-on installation
- 4″ OD tips included (T304)
- Backed by a Lifetime Warranty
3. Flowmaster American Thunder Cat-Back Exhaust
The Flowmaster American Thunder Cat-Back Exhaust for the Toyota Tacoma will give you exactly the sound that is promised by its name. The exhaust note of the American Thunder series has become a symbol of American power that is globally recognized. It is also the most popular of all the Flowmaster exhaust systems for those looking to increase power figures and mileage, improve throttle response, and enhance the sound of their vehicle. This system is perfect for anyone who wants a system that delivers a moderately aggressive exterior sound while still maintaining a comfortable interior tone with all of the performance benefits associated with the Flowmaster brand.
The Flowmaster American Thunder Dual Exhaust Side Exit Cat-Back uses Flowmaster’s patented Delta Flow Technology and a welded baffle muffler to let your Tacoma let out a rich and clear note that will hold your attention and grab that of passersby. Apart from its unique growl, it is manufactured to enhance the performance of your truck by freeing up the vehicle’s exhaust outflow so that the engine does not overwork itself. This reduces the risk of overheating and also lets the engine generate more power without compromising fuel efficiency.
This flanged stainless-steel system connects directly to the back of the catalytic converter and the 2.50-inch mandrel-bent tubing runs into a single inlet/dual outlet Super 50 Series muffler exiting into dual 2.50-inch mandrel-bent stainless steel tailpipes. The system uses the Tacoma’s factory hanger locations and is finished off with a pair of 3.50-inch polished stainless steel exhaust tips exiting out the left and right side behind the rear tires, which is perfect for towing. Designed for a perfect fit, this cat-back system includes all of the necessary parts, hardware, and detailed instructions for an easy installation that you can do at home.
Features:
- Large 3.50-inch polished stainless steel tips
- Side exit tailpipes are ideal for towing
- Moderately aggressive exterior tone
- Made with Delta Flow Technology
- Includes a Super 50 stainless steel muffler
- Full stainless steel construction
- Offers the dual exhaust look and sound
4. Corsa Performance 3-Inch Cat-Back Exhaust
The Corsa Performance 3-Inch Sport Cat-Back Exhaust will transform your Toyota Tacoma in terms of styling, sound, and performance. This system delivers a custom-tuned, aggressive exhaust note that showcases a distinctive sound of power that will be music to your ears. In addition to offering a high-performance sound, this exhaust provides increased airflow and performance. The Pro-Series exhaust is designed for straight-through, non-restrictive airflow that results in it flowing 15 percent better than stock while also being lighter than the factory system. With the Corsa cat-back, you’ll get improved performance and fuel efficiency both on and off the road with improved horsepower and torque figures to boot.
Getting an excellent-sounding exhaust that will turn heads when you drive by is simple with CORSA’s patented Reflective Sound Cancellation (RSC) technology. The RSC allows the exhaust to have an aggressive sound through the gears, a deep rumble during idle, and zero drone when cruising. Another benefit of the innovative RSC is reduced backpressure which is part of what helps the engine produce gains in power. Corsa’s patented frees up additional power to get your vehicle moving faster, functioning more efficiently, and, thus, providing better fuel economy with mellow driving habits.
The Pro-Series exhaust features 3-inch tubing with mandrel-bent, premium 304L stainless steel for the ultimate tough construction. The exhaust’s handcrafted 4-inch powder-coated black tip stands out from the rest and enhances the styling of your truck. Resistant to both rust and corrosion, you won’t have to worry about unwanted deterioration as a result of extreme temperatures or organic wear and tear. The no-drill, bolt-on installation is super easy, saving you time and unnecessary aggravation. CORSA has designed the Pro-Series Cat-Back to perfectly fit your Tacoma and backs it with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, clearly showing the confidence the brand has in its technology.
Features:
- Reflective Sound Cancellation (RSC) Technology
- Drone-free experience when cruising
- Custom-tuned, aggressive exhaust note
- Durable 304 stainless steel construction
- Polished/Black PVD stainless steel tips
- Flows 15 percent better than stock
- 3″ Stainless steel tubing
- 4″ Black Pro-Series tip
- Easy direct-fit, bolt-on installation
- Limited Lifetime Warranty
5. Carven Exhaust Progressive Series Cat-Back
Carven Exhaust is leading the new era in aftermarket performance exhaust products. Its Progressive Series Cat-Back Exhaust will give your Tacoma a deeper, more desirable growl under startup and acceleration, while having little to no drone at highway cruising speeds. This way, your truck can leave a lasting impression on passersby while you and your passengers can enjoy minimal in-cabin noise. Apart from improved sound and, of course, better overall performance, this system is a direct bolt-on replacement for your Tacoma’s factory setup so no welding or cutting is required.
Carven Exhaust Systems are handcrafted and built from quality stainless steel material assembled with TIG welding processes to maximize strength and performance. Carven manufactures its Progressive Series Exhaust from 304 stainless steel tubing for superior strength and long-lasting corrosion resistance. This system features mandrel-bent tubing throughout with a TR Performance muffler to dramatically outflow your Tacoma’s stock exhaust. This exhaust also includes a 4-inch 304 stainless steel polished exhaust tip with a bright mirror finish for that classic appeal.
All Carven Exhaust products are proudly made in the USA to strict exacting standards and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they can stand up to the elements of harsh conditions. Best of all, Carven Exhaust backs its products for up to a period of 100 years against manufacturer defects in the materials or workmanship.
Features:
- 100% stainless construction
- Fully TIG welded for added strength
- Utilizes a TR Performance muffler
- 4″ Stainless polished exhaust tip
- Direct-fit OEM replacement
- No cutting or welding required
- Covered by 100-Year Limited Warranty
- Handmade in the USA
