Kia Tasman Performance Upgrade Review: Enhanced Style
Service Price
$150+
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Kia Tasman performance side exhaust tip upgrade enhances style and sound. Achieves an aggressive look similar to imported pickups.
Transforming the Kia Tasman with Performance Side Exhaust Tips
The Kia Tasman, Korea's first pickup truck, has garnered significant attention. While its muscular lines and bold proportions are appealing, many owners find the stock exhaust system lacks the visual impact of imported pickups like the Ford F-150 or Ram 1500. These international rivals often feature side-exiting exhaust tips that contribute to a powerful, aggressive aesthetic. Fortunately, a similar look can be achieved for the Tasman through a performance exhaust tip upgrade. This guide details the process undertaken by Today's Car Incheon, focusing on how to achieve that imported pickup feel.
Understanding the Difference: Stock vs. Performance Exhaust
The factory setup on the Tasman features an exhaust that exits downwards, often with a subtle, almost hidden finisher. This design prioritizes quiet operation and compliance but offers little in terms of visual flair. In contrast, performance side exhaust tips reroute the exhaust gases to exit parallel to the vehicle's body, creating a much more dynamic and sporty appearance. This modification isn't just about aesthetics; it involves careful engineering to ensure legality and optimal performance.
The key to a successful side-tip conversion lies in maintaining the integrity of the original exhaust system's components, including the catalytic converter for emissions control and the muffler for sound dampening. The goal is to modify only the final exit point. This requires precise fabrication of new piping, considering factors like diameter, length, and angle to avoid negatively impacting exhaust backpressure, which could lead to a loss of engine power or cause backfiring.
The Performance Side Exhaust Installation Process
Installation begins with a thorough inspection of the existing exhaust system. The standard flow is Engine → Catalytic Converter → Muffler → Exhaust Outlet. The performance upgrade focuses on redesigning the final outlet while preserving the upstream components.
- Custom Pipe Fabrication: New piping is precisely measured and cut to ensure the correct diameter (typically around 50mm to maintain proper backpressure), length, and angle for side exit.
- Bracket Creation and Mounting: Custom brackets are fabricated to securely mount the new side pipes, preventing vibration and movement during driving. Crucially, the installation must maintain adequate ground clearance.
- Legality and Compliance Check: The system is checked against legal standards, including exhaust volume (under 85dB), minimum ground clearance (160mm), and protrusion limits (within 15% of vehicle width). This ensures the vehicle will pass regular inspections.
- Sound Tuning: While the muffler is retained, the side exit will naturally result in a more audible exhaust note, typically increasing by 5-10dB. This is carefully adjusted using sound-deadening materials or by fine-tuning the pipe dimensions to stay within the legal 85dB limit.
Today's Car Incheon utilizes diagnostic tools to verify compliance with all regulatory requirements before completing the installation. This meticulous approach ensures that the performance upgrade is not only visually appealing but also fully legal and safe.
Results and Maintenance
The visual transformation is immediate, giving the Kia Tasman a more aggressive and premium stance reminiscent of high-end imported pickups. The exhaust note becomes more pronounced, offering a satisfying auditory experience without exceeding legal limits. Maintenance involves regular checks of the exhaust system for any leaks or damage, particularly to the newly installed side pipes, and ensuring they remain clean for optimal appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a performance exhaust tip upgrade cost for a Kia Tasman?
The cost for this specific performance exhaust tip upgrade on a Kia Tasman, as performed by Today's Car Incheon, is not explicitly stated in the provided text but typically ranges from ₩500,000 to ₩1,500,000 in Korean Won. In the US, similar custom exhaust modifications can range from $300 to $1,000 depending on the complexity and materials used.
Q. How long does a performance exhaust tip upgrade last on a Kia Tasman?
A properly installed performance exhaust tip upgrade, using quality materials, can last for many years, often the lifespan of the vehicle. Regular checks for rust, leaks, and secure mounting are recommended, along with occasional cleaning of the tips to maintain their appearance.
Q. Is a performance exhaust tip upgrade worth it for a Kia Tasman?
This upgrade is most beneficial for Kia Tasman owners seeking to enhance the vehicle's aesthetic appeal and achieve a more aggressive, premium look similar to imported pickups. It offers a significant visual improvement over the stock system for those who value style and a slightly sportier exhaust note.
Q. How is a performance exhaust tip upgrade done on a Kia Tasman?
The process involves fabricating custom side-exit exhaust pipes that connect to the existing system, ensuring the catalytic converter and muffler are retained. Brackets are made to securely mount the new pipes, maintaining proper ground clearance and ensuring the system complies with legal exhaust volume and protrusion limits.
Q. What is the best performance upgrade option for a Kia Tasman?
For enhancing the visual presence of the Kia Tasman, the performance side exhaust tip upgrade is a standout option, mimicking the aggressive styling of imported pickups. While other performance upgrades exist, this modification directly addresses the desire for a more impactful exterior appearance.
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