So, you're thinking about upgrading the exhaust on your 2020 Lexus IS300 F Sport, huh? Awesome! You've come to the right place. Let's dive into everything you need to know to make the best decision for your ride. We'll cover why you might want a new exhaust, what to look for, and some popular options. Buckle up, car enthusiasts, this is going to be a fun ride!

Why Upgrade Your 2020 Lexus IS300 F Sport Exhaust?

Let's get straight to the point: Why even bother changing the exhaust? The stock exhaust on the IS300 F Sport is decent, but there’s definitely room for improvement. Here's the lowdown on the benefits:

• Performance Boost: One of the most common reasons for upgrading your exhaust is to squeeze out a bit more horsepower and torque. Aftermarket exhausts are typically designed to be less restrictive than the factory systems. This means the engine doesn't have to work as hard to expel exhaust gases, resulting in increased efficiency and power. While the gains might not be massive (think single-digit horsepower), every little bit counts, right?
• Enhanced Sound: Let's be honest, the stock exhaust note on the IS300 F Sport is a little... tame. A new exhaust system can give your Lexus a much more aggressive and sporty sound. Whether you're after a deep, throaty growl or a high-pitched scream, there's an exhaust out there that can deliver the sound you crave. Just imagine cruising down the street, turning heads with that perfect exhaust note!
• Improved Aesthetics: While it's not all about looks, a shiny new exhaust system can definitely add some visual flair to your car. Many aftermarket exhausts feature polished stainless steel tips that look much more aggressive than the stock exhaust. Plus, the larger diameter piping can give your car a more muscular stance. Who doesn't want their ride to look as good as it sounds?
• Weight Reduction: Factory exhaust systems can be quite heavy, especially the mufflers and catalytic converters. Upgrading to an aftermarket exhaust, particularly one made from stainless steel or titanium, can shave off some weight. While it might not be a huge difference, every pound counts when it comes to performance. Plus, less weight means better handling and fuel economy!

Ultimately, upgrading your exhaust is about enhancing your driving experience. Whether you're looking for more power, a better sound, or a more aggressive look, a new exhaust system can help you achieve your goals. Now, let's get into what you should consider when choosing an exhaust for your 2020 Lexus IS300 F Sport.

What to Consider When Choosing an Exhaust

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of upgrading your exhaust. Great! But before you go clicking that "buy now" button, there are a few things you need to keep in mind to make sure you choose the right system for your needs and preferences.

Exhaust Type

First off, you'll need to decide what type of exhaust system you want. Here’s a rundown of the most common types:

• Axle-Back Exhaust: An axle-back exhaust replaces everything from the rear axle back, typically including the muffler and exhaust tips. This is usually the most affordable option and is relatively easy to install. Axle-back systems primarily affect the sound of your exhaust, with minimal impact on performance. If you're mainly looking for a better sound and don't want to break the bank, an axle-back exhaust is a great choice.
• Cat-Back Exhaust: A cat-back exhaust replaces everything from the catalytic converters back, including the mid-pipe, muffler, and exhaust tips. This type of system offers a good balance of performance and sound improvement. Cat-back exhausts are more expensive than axle-back systems but can provide a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque. If you're looking for a more significant upgrade, a cat-back exhaust is the way to go.
• Header-Back Exhaust (or Full Exhaust): A header-back exhaust replaces the entire exhaust system, from the exhaust manifold (headers) all the way back to the exhaust tips. This is the most comprehensive and expensive option, but it also offers the greatest potential for performance gains. Header-back exhausts are typically only recommended for serious enthusiasts who are looking to maximize power output. Keep in mind that replacing the headers may require additional modifications and could potentially affect emissions compliance.

Material

The material your exhaust is made from will affect its durability, weight, and cost. Here are the most common materials used in aftermarket exhaust systems:

• Steel: Steel exhausts are the most affordable option. They're durable, but they're also the heaviest and most prone to rust. Steel is a good choice if you're on a tight budget and don't mind the extra weight.
• Stainless Steel: Stainless steel exhausts are more expensive than steel exhausts but offer better corrosion resistance and are lighter. Stainless steel is a great all-around choice for most enthusiasts. It offers a good balance of durability, performance, and cost.
• Titanium: Titanium exhausts are the most expensive option. They're incredibly lightweight and offer excellent corrosion resistance. Titanium is typically only used in high-performance applications where weight savings are critical. If you're looking to shave every possible ounce off your car, a titanium exhaust is the way to go.

Sound Level

The sound level of your exhaust is a matter of personal preference, but it's also important to consider your local noise ordinances. Some areas have strict laws about exhaust noise, so you'll want to make sure your new exhaust complies. Exhaust sound is typically measured in decibels (dB). A louder exhaust will have a higher dB rating. Keep in mind that what sounds good to one person may be annoying to another, so it's always a good idea to listen to sound clips or videos of different exhausts before making a decision. Also, consider whether you plan on doing a lot of highway driving. A loud exhaust can become tiresome on long trips.

Brand and Quality

As with any aftermarket part, the brand and quality of your exhaust are important considerations. There are many reputable exhaust manufacturers out there, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some popular brands include Borla, Magnaflow, Invidia, and AWE Tuning. Do some research and read reviews to get an idea of which brands are known for producing high-quality, well-engineered exhausts. Also, pay attention to the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can give you peace of mind in case of any issues.

Installation

Finally, consider the installation process. Are you comfortable installing the exhaust yourself, or will you need to take it to a shop? Axle-back exhausts are typically the easiest to install, while header-back exhausts can be more complex. If you're not mechanically inclined, it's always best to leave the installation to a professional. Keep in mind that installation costs can add to the overall price of your exhaust upgrade.

Popular Exhaust Options for the 2020 Lexus IS300 F Sport

Alright, now that we've covered what to consider when choosing an exhaust, let's take a look at some popular options for the 2020 Lexus IS300 F Sport.

• Borla Exhaust Systems: Borla is a well-known and respected exhaust manufacturer that offers a variety of options for the IS300 F Sport. Their exhausts are known for their high-quality construction, excellent sound, and performance gains. Borla offers both axle-back and cat-back systems for the IS300 F Sport, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Their exhausts typically feature stainless steel construction and polished exhaust tips. Borla exhausts are a popular choice among Lexus enthusiasts due to their proven performance and reliability.
• Magnaflow Exhaust Systems: Magnaflow is another popular exhaust manufacturer that offers a wide range of options for the IS300 F Sport. Their exhausts are known for their smooth, deep sound and their ability to improve performance without being overly aggressive. Magnaflow offers both axle-back and cat-back systems for the IS300 F Sport, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Their exhausts typically feature stainless steel construction and polished exhaust tips. Magnaflow exhausts are a great choice if you're looking for a refined and sophisticated sound.
• Invidia Exhaust Systems: Invidia is a popular choice among import car enthusiasts, and they offer several exhaust options for the IS300 F Sport. Their exhausts are known for their aggressive sound and their ability to improve performance. Invidia offers both axle-back and cat-back systems for the IS300 F Sport, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Their exhausts typically feature stainless steel construction and titanium exhaust tips. Invidia exhausts are a great choice if you're looking for a more aggressive and sporty sound.
• AWE Tuning Exhaust Systems: AWE Tuning is a premium exhaust manufacturer that offers high-end exhaust systems for the IS300 F Sport. Their exhausts are known for their exceptional build quality, refined sound, and significant performance gains. AWE Tuning offers both axle-back and cat-back systems for the IS300 F Sport, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Their exhausts typically feature stainless steel construction and handcrafted exhaust tips. AWE Tuning exhausts are a great choice if you're looking for the best possible performance and sound.

Installation Tips

So, you've got your new exhaust and you're ready to install it. Here are a few tips to make the process go smoothly:

• Gather Your Tools: Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools. This typically includes a socket set, wrenches, a ratchet, a torque wrench, penetrating oil, and jack stands. Having the right tools will make the job much easier and safer.
• Spray Penetrating Oil: Spray all the exhaust bolts with penetrating oil a day or two before you plan to do the install. This will help loosen any rusted or corroded bolts and make them easier to remove.
• Use Jack Stands: Never work under a car that is only supported by a jack. Always use jack stands to safely support the car before you start working on the exhaust.
• Follow the Instructions: Read the instructions that come with your exhaust carefully and follow them step by step. This will help you avoid any mistakes and ensure that the exhaust is installed correctly.
• Torque to Spec: Use a torque wrench to tighten all the exhaust bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This will ensure that the bolts are tight enough to prevent leaks but not so tight that they break.
• Check for Leaks: After you've installed the exhaust, start the car and check for any exhaust leaks. If you hear any leaks, tighten the bolts until the leaks are gone.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading the exhaust on your 2020 Lexus IS300 F Sport can be a great way to improve its performance, sound, and appearance. By considering the factors discussed in this guide and choosing the right exhaust for your needs and preferences, you can transform your driving experience. So go ahead, treat yourself to a new exhaust and unleash the full potential of your Lexus!

Happy driving, guys! Hope this helped you on your journey to upgrade your ride. Now go make that IS300 F Sport sound as good as it looks!