MagnaFlow Overland Series Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 19544: A Comprehensive Review By ZENDO
For overlanders and off-road enthusiasts seeking to enhance their vehicle’s performance and sound, the MagnaFlow Overland Series Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 19544 offers a compelling upgrade. Designed specifically for the Lexus GX470 (2003–2009), GX460 (2010–2023), and Toyota 4Runner (2003–2009), this system promises improved ground clearance, a refined exhaust note, and robust construction. For many that lightly or heavily modify their vehicles, this system is both a solution and upgrade. ZENDO has partnered with Magnaflow to bring you a fresh review of a popular kit so lets dive in.
Key Features Offered in this Kit Before We Install
- Mandrel-Bent 2.5″ Tubing: Ensures smooth exhaust flow, optimizing performance and efficiency.
- Single, Straight-Through Muffler: Delivers MagnaFlow’s signature deep tone without excessive noise.
- High-Clearance, No-Tip Exit: Positioned on the passenger side, this design enhances ground clearance and departure angles, crucial for off-road adventures.
- 100% Stainless Steel Construction: Guarantees durability and resistance to corrosion, essential for harsh environments.
- No Drone Technology: Minimizes unwanted noise frequencies during cruising, providing a comfortable driving experience.
- Bolt-On Installation: Facilitates an easy, DIY-friendly setup with no welding required.
- Made in the USA: Reflects MagnaFlow’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
The Factory Setup and Issue
A popular thing to do for GX owners is trim the factory front and rear bumpers for better approach and departure angels. In my case I gave the rear factory bumper a healthy trim. I don’t intend on towing so I removed the factory hitch and also sold the factory 19″ spare and put a new 17″ wheel mounted with a Toyo 35″ tire positioned on top the third row in the boot.
From the image below you can see the factory resonator and tip now sits extremely low and out of place. Painting it black didn’t hide anything. A trim was the next option.
A quick fix to this is to chop the resonator. This solves the long and low issue and does not increase any sound at all inside or outside of the vehicle.
A downside by removing 2 feet of exhaust is it places the exit right under the 3rd row and at idle could have exhaust gas creep into the vehicle. Also if cut in the wrong place other owners have noted that the exhaust heat is aimed right at the tire causing a hazard and blowouts.
Here is a look at the factory mid pipe and muffler.
Whats in the Box
You will know when your new exhaust shows up at your front door inside this extremely bright MF branded box. Everything to install is included. You will need to reuse the front pipe factory spring bolts 2x and 5x rubber exhaust hangers.
It comes well packed for shipping. Something noticeable right away is the smaller MF muffler vs factory that will offer some weight savings. Keep this box as you can store your factory system after install. The OE muffler will be to large to store in this box though.
Magnaflow provides all the hardware, instructions, along with some stickers and overland patch. These exhaust clamps are some of the best I have even used. I get to that more in detail during the install.
Magnaflow included 2 front pipe lengths with every kit. The shorter pipe is for 2004-2023 GX470/460 and the longer is for 2003 GX470. Save the used pipe if needed for any reason at a later time.
Installation and Fitment
The system is designed for a straight forward installation process. Taking off the factory exhaust and installing the new Magnaflow only takes 30-45 minutes. Mine being a 2020, I had no issues taking off the 4 factory bolts and removing the system off the rubber hangers. Here is a look at the two exhausts side by side.
I build my vehicle projects a little different. Coming from the racing world, I like to build by keeping things light as possible. That factory muffler is a beast. The Magnaflow not only was a welcomed weight savings but the whole package tucked up higher for better clearance.
Installing everything staring from front to rear, I had everything mounted in 15 min ready for the first start up. Earlier I had mentioned the Torca clamps. These are the 3 slide on clamps to hold the piping sections together. In the past when tightening these style of clamps, they seemed to max out not allowing a tight fit and allowing for leaks. These updated Magnaflow clamps are solid allowing you to tighten to the max. After starting up I did a sweep of the entire system not finding any leaks.
Performance and Sound
First start up was nothing like a loud higher idle sound that could wake up others early in the morning. It was not much more than factory sounding. After idle down I first heard it. That deep V8 growl sound. It immediately gave this build some new character as it now sounded liked it looked.
Having two young kids and not wanting a loud, annoying and droning exhaust, it was time for a test drive. My son jumping in we headed out for some 0-60 runs.
At casual acceleration it has a deep and sporty sound. No heavy vibrations and it keeps things mild around other vehicles. Under heavy acceleration it really opens up to moderate but not overwhelming. Being truthful it sounds fantastic.
Now for the most important. How is it at 60-80 mph cursing? ZERO DRONE. My family could comfortably sleep on trips and it’s not going to be annoying on daily trips to the office. At cruising speeds your hardly notice it.
When coming to a stop it sounds completely stock on downshifts.
Durability and Build Quality
Constructed entirely from stainless steel, the 19544 system is built to withstand the rigors of off-road environments. The materials and welds are of high quality as this is one of the best bangs for your buck.
Considerations
While the MagnaFlow 19544 system offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to be aware of potential things:
- Fitment Issues: Our install had 0 issues. Everything had proper fitment and clearances. Other modification to your vehicle or wear overtime could result in some adjustments needed to clear heat shields, axles or aftermarket armor.
- Noise Levels: A few users have reported the system being louder than anticipated, especially during acceleration. Having run other exhausts on other Toyota V8’s, I find the exhausted welcomed and not over sounding at all. It’s mild when wanted and more wild when playing.
- Finish: Some users have noted wear on the finish. I find it important to wash the bottom of the vehicle every time I wash the top. Especially after an off-road trip crossing water, mud and salt lake beds. Keep your brakes, shocks, armor and exhaust more rust free with a little soap and water every now and than.
Final Verdict
The MagnaFlow Overland Series Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System 19544 stands out as a top-tier upgrade for Overlanders and off-road enthusiasts. Its combination of enhanced performance, refined sound, and durable construction makes it a valuable addition to vehicles like the Lexus GX and Toyota 4Runner.
For those considering this upgrade, visit Magnaflow or your local authorized Magnaflow Authorized Dealer.
Special thanks to Magnaflow for sending us this new exhaust. We had reached out to them to support our GX build as we do a lot of trade show events like Overland Expo along with guided overland trail runs. ZENDO looks forward to this new partnership and stop by and say hello at our next event Toyota Fest in Long Beach, CA in the Radflo Shocks booth June 28th.
After the install was complete, we went for a nice family drive to see how the Magnaflow Exhaust sounded here in Orange County, CA stopping by the Lexus West Coast HQ in Irvine. Thanks for reading.
