The TOWMA High-Performance Downpipe for the Audi RS3 8Y unleashes the full potential of the legendary 2.5 TFSI 5-cylinder engine. This upgrade delivers maximum flow, an iconic 5-cylinder sound, and provides the perfect foundation for Stage 2 tuning. Available as a catless or high-flow sports catalytic converter.
Advantages
- Maximum flow — free diameter for minimum restriction
- More power — 30-40 extra hp with Stage 2 tuning
- Faster turbo response — less backpressure, faster spooling
- Iconic 5-cylinder sound — raw, sporty, unmistakably RS3
- OEM+ fit — direct mounting without modifications
- T304 Stainless Steel — High-performance stainless steel for extreme temperatures
- TIG welded — perfect welds for optimal strength and flow
- Optional heat shield — extra thermal protection
Material & Construction
The TOWMA downpipe is manufactured from high-quality T304 stainless steel and fully TIG-welded for maximum durability and flow.
The free diameter pipe without internal restrictions ensures maximum exhaust flow, resulting in:
- Faster turbo response — turbo spools up significantly faster
- More power — especially in the mid-range rev range
- Better throttle response — more direct throttle response
- Higher top speed — less exhaust restriction
Available in two variants:
1. Catless (without catalytic converter):
- Maximum flow and performance
- Loudest, most aggressive 5-cylinder sound
- Maximum power gain (35-40 hp with Stage 2)
- Not MOT-proof in the Netherlands
- For track/export use only
2. High-Flow Sports Catalyst (200-cell):
- Balance between performance and emissions
- Sporty 5-cylinder sound, slightly less loud than catless
- Good power gains (30-35 hp with Stage 2)
- Possibly MOT-proof (depending on inspection)
- Suitable for daily use
Optional heat shield:
For additional thermal protection, the downpipe is optionally available with a heat shield. This protects surrounding components from the extreme heat of the turbo.
Performance & Sound
Capital gain:
- Catless: +35-40 hp with Stage 2 ECU tuning
- High-flow cat: +30-35 hp with Stage 2 ECU tuning
- Without tuning: +12-18 hp (only due to better flow)
- Total power with Stage 2: 500+ hp possible!
Sound character:
The TOWMA downpipe allows the iconic 2.5 TFSI 5-cylinder to come into its own:
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Idle: Deeper, more present 5-cylinder bass
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Acceleration: Aggressive turbo whoosh and wastegate flutter
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High revs: Screaming, race-inspired 5-cylinder sound
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Deceleration: Explosive pops and bangs (with tune)
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Downshifts: Aggressive backfire and crackling
Note: The RS3 5-cylinder is legendary for its sound. Catless makes this even more extreme—very loud!
Installation & Assembly
The downpipe is designed for plug-and-play installation on the original Audi mounting points.
Installation steps:
- Lift the RS3 and place it on a lifting bridge
- Remove original downpipe (3 bolts top, 2 bolts bottom)
- Install new TOWMA downpipe with supplied gaskets
- Install optional heat shield (if ordered)
- Tighten all bolts to specifications (45-50 Nm)
- Check for leaks upon initial start-up
- Reset error codes (if present)
Installation time: 2-3 hours for an experienced Audi specialist
Recommendation: Professional installation by a certified Audi specialist or tuner is recommended.
ECU Tuning: For optimal performance, Stage 2 ECU tuning is HIGHLY recommended. The downpipe alone provides 12-18 hp, but with Stage 2 tuning it adds 30-40 hp. Popular tuners: APR, Unitronic, IE, GIAC, Revo.
Compatibility
Suitable for:
- Audi RS3 8Y Sportback (2021+) — 2.5 TFSI 5-cylinder
- Audi RS3 8Y Sedan (2022+) — 2.5 TFSI 5-cylinder
Not suitable for:
- Audi RS3 8V (2015-2020) — previous generation
- Audi S3 8Y — other engine (2.0 TFSI)
Note: This is only for the 8Y generation (2021+) with the 2.5 TFSI engine. Check your engine code before ordering.
Technical Specifications
| Characteristic |
Specification |
| Brand |
TOWMA Carbon & Performance Parts |
| Product |
High-Performance Downpipe |
| Material |
T304 Stainless Steel |
| Welding method |
TIG welded |
| Diameter |
76mm (3 inch) |
| Variants |
Catless or High-Flow Cat (200-cell) |
| Heat shield |
Optionally available |
| Fit |
OEM+ direct fit |
| Suitable for |
RS3 8Y (2021+) |
| Capital gains |
30-40 hp (with Stage 2 tune) |
| Installation |
Plug and play, no welding |
| Warranty |
3 years on construction and fit |
| Price |
€999 |
Maintenance & Warranty
Maintenance:
- Check flanges for leaks regularly
- Inspect gaskets annually
- Check heat shield for damage (if fitted)
- Clean the outside with stainless steel cleaner for a shine
- Check mounting bolts for tightness
Warranty:
TOWMA offers a 3-year warranty on construction, fit, and finish. The warranty covers manufacturing defects, leaks, and fit issues. Damage due to improper installation, accidents, or misuse is not covered by the warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do I need ECU tuning? Not required, but highly recommended. Without tuning, you'll gain 12-18 hp, and with Stage 2 tuning, you'll gain 30-40 hp.
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Is this MOT-proof? Catless is NOT. High-flow cat is possible, depending on inspection.
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How loud is this? Catless is VERY loud. The 5-cylinder sound is iconic but extreme. High-flow cat is sporty but more bearable.
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Will I get a check engine light? Possibly. This can be resolved with Stage 2 tuning or O2 sensor spacers.
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What is Stage 2 tuning? Stage 2 is ECU tuning specifically for downpipe upgrades. Stage 1 is software only, Stage 2 is software + hardware (downpipe).
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Do I need the heat shield? Recommended for extra protection, but not mandatory.
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Will this fit my RS3 Sedan? Yes, the Sportback and Sedan share the same engine and exhaust layout.
