Quick answer: a Toyota Hilux exhaust is chosen by generation and engine, and by whether your ute has a factory diesel particulate filter (DPF). The N70 Hilux (2005 to 2015, 3.0L D4D) suits a 3 inch turbo-back system. The N80 (2015 to 2025, 2.8L and 2.4L) and the N90 (2026 onwards, 2.8L) suit a 3 inch DPF-back system, which keeps the factory filter in place. Then you choose a sound level and a material.
Hilux owners tend to ask three things: which system fits, how loud it will be, and whether it will cause problems with the DPF. This guide answers each one in turn.
Which Hilux do you have?
The table matches each generation to the system type listed in our range. Always confirm your exact model, engine and build year on the product page before ordering.
| Hilux | Years | Engine | System type | Where to start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| N70 | 2005 to 2015 | 3.0L D4D | 3 inch turbo-back | N70 exhausts |
| N80 | 2015 to 2025 | 2.8L (and 2.4L) | 3 inch DPF-back | N80 DPF-back exhausts |
| N90 | 2026 onwards | 2.8L | 3 inch DPF-back | Hilux exhausts |
You can also browse every Hilux listing in our Toyota Hilux exhausts collection.
DPF-back or turbo-back: what is the difference?
A turbo-back replaces everything from the turbocharger outlet to the tailpipe. A DPF-back replaces everything behind the diesel particulate filter and leaves the filter and its sensors in place. The N70 was built before the filter era, so it uses a turbo-back, and the N80 and N90 carry a filter, so they use a DPF-back. Our guides to what a DPF is and the difference between cat-back and turbo-back systems explain more.
We do not suggest removing the DPF. Removing emissions equipment is not permitted on registered vehicles in several states, and it can lead to fault codes and failed inspections. See the state-by-state legality guide for the details.
Hilux systems in our range
N70 (2005 to 2015)
The N70 3.0L D4D 3 inch turbo-back is a direct-fit system with six configurations, from 'with cat and muffler' to 'no cat with pipe', and a choice of normal or diff-dump tailpipe exit. There is also a version with a 3.5 inch tailpipe. If you only want to improve the front of the system, the 3 inch dump pipe with cat is listed on its own.
N80 (2015 to 2025)
The N80 2.8L 3 inch DPF-back and the N80 2.4L 3 inch DPF-back keep the factory filter in place. A 3.5 inch DPF-back is available for the 2.8L as well. See the full N80 exhaust collection.
N90 (2026 onwards)
The N90 2.8L 3 inch DPF-back is a direct-fit stainless steel system for the newest generation.
Choosing a sound level
On our Hilux systems you choose the rear section, and the sound ratings are relative to each system. On the DPF-back listings the options are:
- Muffler: the quietest option, which suits towing, touring and long highway stints.
- Hotdog: a quiet option that is a little more present than the muffler.
- Pipe: the moderate option, with a more open sound.
The N70 turbo-back has a wider range, with 'with cat' and 'no cat' choices combined with a muffler, hotdog or pipe. The 'with cat and muffler' combination is the quietest, and the 'no cat with pipe' combination is the loudest and is intended for off-road and track use. For help picking, see our guide to how loud your exhaust will be and our article on what a muffler does. If you want the loudest, simplest option for off-road use, the N70 muffler delete pipe is listed too.
Aluminised or stainless steel?
Many of our Hilux systems are offered in aluminised steel or stainless steel. Aluminised steel systems carry a 2 year warranty, and stainless steel systems carry a 5 year warranty. Stainless steel resists rust far better, which matters for a ute that sees mud, creek crossings and salt air. Our stainless vs mild steel guide explains when the extra cost is worthwhile.
Why 3 inch?
A 3 inch system moves more gas than a typical factory pipe, which is why it is such a popular upgrade on turbo diesels. A bigger pipe is not automatically better, and the right size depends on the engine and the power level. Read our comparison of 2.5-inch vs 3-inch exhausts, our article on boost and fault codes on a 3-inch diesel exhaust, and our guide to turbo response on a diesel 4x4.
How are they fitted?
The Hilux systems above are CNC mandrel bent, come with a fitting kit, and are designed to bolt on using the factory mounting points, with no cutting or welding required. Most owners find a hoist makes the job much easier. Our compatibility guide explains how to confirm fitment before you order, and our guide to the types of exhaust system shows how the parts fit together.
What about petrol Hiluxes?
Petrol Hiluxes are a different job, because there is no DPF to consider. We list extractors for several models, such as a Pacemaker extractor for the 4.0L V6 Hilux, and you can browse more in our headers and extractors collection.
Is it legal?
Noise limits and emissions rules vary by state. A DPF-back system that keeps the filter and sensors is the lower-risk option, while 'no cat' and muffler delete options are intended for off-road and track use. Our parts are intended for off-road and track use unless otherwise stated, and customers are responsible for making sure modifications comply with the rules that apply to them. This is general information only, not legal advice, so please check with your state road authority.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best exhaust for a Toyota Hilux?
It depends on the generation, the engine and what you want from it. For most owners the practical answer is a 3 inch system that matches the model, with a muffler or hotdog rear section for touring and towing. If your ute has a DPF, choose a DPF-back.
Will a 3 inch exhaust cause fault codes on my Hilux?
A system that keeps the factory DPF and sensors in place is designed to avoid problems, but vehicles differ. Read our article on boost and fault-code concerns and check the listing notes for your model.
Which option is quietest for towing?
The muffler rear section is the quietest option. On the N70 turbo-back, 'with cat and muffler' is the quietest combination.
Is the exhaust a bolt-on fit?
The systems listed above are designed to bolt on using the factory mounting points, with a fitting kit included.
How long is the warranty?
Aluminised steel systems come with a 2 year warranty and stainless steel systems come with a 5 year warranty.
Does the N80 exhaust fit both the 2.8L and the 2.4L?
They are listed separately, so choose the listing that matches your engine. If you are unsure which engine you have, check your build plate or ask us with your VIN.
Find your Hilux exhaust
Browse the full Toyota Hilux exhausts collection, see our wider DPF-back exhausts and turbo-back exhausts, or contact the DEA Performance team with your model, engine and year and we will point you to the right system. You can also call us on 03 9793 9916.