View Single Post
      02-24-2016, 12:59 AM   #1
CntryClub007
Major
CntryClub007's Avatar
490
Rep
1,067
Posts

Drives: 2016 340i | 2015 X5-50i
Join Date: Jul 2014
Location: Chicago

iTrader: (8)

320i AWE Tuning Exhaust Review – F30 N20

Over the weekend I installed an AWE Tuning Touring Edition Exhaust. This includes the Performance Mid-Pipe. As a note, I'm running factory downpipe and AFE intake, as well as JB4 and ER Hard Intercooler Piping (TIC and Charge). Also have 2TB Coding.

I've broken my review down to a few key areas. As a reference, I've been very in touch with the exhaust world for the last 5-7 years. I was heavily engaged in developing one of the leading aftermarket drone-free systems for the GM Zeta Platform in 2008-2010 with a company in Canada, so I have a distinct appreciation for a good exhaust when I see one. I also can't stand Drone, or the occasional snap, crackle, pop on the deceleration. I love a good burp between gears.

I'm writing this review, well because I can't seem to find a single 320i owner out there who has installed this system, and then made a video to go with it, so here it is. 320i Owners, This is for you! Long live the A la carte 320i!

Overall: Absolutely incredible. Seriously, this company knows exactly what they are doing. I really don't know what else to say, I am truly speechless. The attention to detail was there, and I felt it with my purchase. 10/10

Quality / Craftsmanship: The pictures will do justice, but the system looks absolutely gorgeous. The welds are very professional, the fitment is exactly where it needed to be. I only had one wish, and that is for them to weld the exhaust tip to the end of the pipe. I know this allows for fine tuning adjustment and customization, but part of me wishes for the clean look with a weld, and no excess pipe inside of the tip itself. 9/10

Kit / Packaging: This is where AWE earned another 10, they include an additional clamp so I don't have to re-use the OEM clamp off of my downpipe. It's the little things that matter, and once again, the attention to detail was there. All clamps and tips were included, making my life very easy to install. Box was huge, but very well packed. 10/10

Installation: I was fortunate enough to lift my car in a matter of 45 seconds, un-bolt the factory system in about 10 minutes, piece together the new one in about 10 minutes, and then fine tune the adjustment with an air gun in 20-25 minutes. This was the easiest exhaust I've ever installed. No finagling above axles, this was very simple to do. The included instructions were very proficient and typed up professionally. Even with ramps this wouldn't be bad at all. 10/10

Sound (Exterior): Sounds fantastic in my opinion. I'm always surprised at how deep and throaty the N20 is for a 4 cylinder. Great motor, and I even get a wonderful burp on WOT between shifts. See video for that. I don't have any deceleration popping or chatter, it's very smooth through the decal as well. 10/10

Sound (Interior): Upon start-up, the exhaust is a bit loud, but quickly tames down I first 20 seconds. It's really not too loud for my preference or neighbors. I was surprised when I was traveling 65-85 MPH on the highway and the exhaust was completely silent. It was OEM silent, I kid you not. It was as quiet as OEM. There is zero drone. This within itself should be the sole reason to purchase this kit. AWE's Patented 180 Technology is great! 9.5/10

Customer Service: Josh at AWE is an absolute pleasure to work with, I would do business with AWE any day of the week, I trust them very much. 10/10

Value / Price: I think that AWE is right where it should be. I'm a believer you get what you pay for in life. If it were $2K, would have some reservations, but sitting around $1,500 shipped isn't bad considering the refinement in the system. 9/10

Closing thoughts: I personally am a strong advocate for the 320i, and I feel that this exhaust complements it very well. The system remains true to what an enthusiast, aftermarket BMW exhaust should be. In Eco Pro, the exhaust is very quiet, Comfort, you know something is slightly there, and Sport mode, you know it's visible. I drive with the windows cracked now, not to smoke, but to listen to the beautiful note that has been created. It's a feast for the senses, my ears that is!Â…

Hit me with questions!


Last edited by CntryClub007; 07-06-2019 at 06:11 PM.. Reason: New Video
Appreciate 5