C7 Corvette Exhaust Systems – 2025 Power, Sound and Style Upgrade Guide

 

Transform your 2014–2019 C7 Corvette with the best exhaust systems. See top cat-backs, axle-backs, and headers for more HP, torque, and aggressive sound.

Why Upgrade Your C7’s Exhaust?

The C7 Corvette is a muscle-bound sports car with the soul of a race machine — but stock exhaust systems, even with NPP performance exhaust, are still built for noise regulations. Upgrading to an aftermarket exhaust unleashes horsepower, deepens the sound, and drops weight from the rear of the car.

A well-chosen system can:

• Add 10–25 HP (more with headers and tune)
• Reduce backpressure for better throttle response
• Give your C7 the aggressive bark it deserves
• Enhance appearance with polished or carbon tips

Exhaust System Types

Cat-Back Systems

• Replace everything from the catalytic converters back
• Best mix of sound and performance gains
• Popular choice for street and track builds

Axle-Back Systems

• Replace only mufflers and tips
• More affordable, lighter weight change
• Sound upgrade with minimal performance gain

Headers (Long-Tube)

• Bolt to cylinder heads, replace stock manifolds
• Maximize airflow and scavenging
• Require tune for best results

Best C7 Exhaust Brands in 2025

Borla ATAK / S-Type

 

(Street & Track Proven)

• ATAK = aggressive, high-volume tone
• S-Type = deeper, refined rumble
• Made from T-304 stainless, lifetime warranty

Corsa Xtreme

 

(No Drone Technology)

• Aggressive when you want it, quiet when cruising
• Straight-through design for max flow
• Lightweight construction

American Racing Headers (ARH)

 

(Track Dominance)

• Long-tube headers for max HP/TQ
• Mandrel-bent stainless
• Pairs perfectly with Borla or Corsa cat-backs

Kooks Headers & Exhaust

 

(High-End, High-Flow)

• Excellent craftsmanship and weld quality
• Great for boosted C7 builds
• Many diameter and collector options

Sound Profiles – Matching to Your Style

Style Preference	Best Choice
Aggressive, Loud	Borla ATAK + ARH Headers
Deep, Muscle-Car Rumble	Borla S-Type + Kooks
Refined but Powerful	Corsa Xtreme + ARH
Track-Only Max Output	ARH Full System

Installation & Tuning Tips

• Axle-Back: DIY in 1–2 hrs, no tune needed.
• Cat-Back: 2–4 hrs, still no tune required.
• Long-Tube Headers: 6–8 hrs, professional install recommended, tune required for max gains and no CEL.
• Weight Savings: Borla ATAK saves ~10–15 lbs over OEM exhaust.

Cost Breakdown

System Type	Avg Price Range	Gains
Axle-Back (Borla/Corsa)	$1,200–$1,800	+5–8 HP
Cat-Back (Borla/Corsa)	$2,200–$3,200	+10–15 HP
Long-Tube Headers (ARH)	$2,000–$2,500	+15–25 HP
Full System (Headers+Cat)	$4,000–$5,500	+25–40 HP

Final Takeaway

Upgrading your C7 Corvette’s exhaust system is more than just about sound — it’s a performance boost, a weight reduction, and a way to make your presence known both on and off the track. The right system turns every drive into an event.