AWE Audi C8 RS6/RS7 SwitchPath Exhaust with Diamond Black Tips

[Flieger]

AWE Audi C8 SwitchPath Exhaust

Releasing today is the AWE C8 RS6/RS7 SwitchPath Exhaust. After what has seemed like a forever wait, I can finally share this amazing exhaust with the rest of the C8 family. I started this journey with AWE about 18 months ago when they hinted at an exhaust for our chassis. I sent a few emails off and started the discussion to have an early production version of this exhaust. Little did I know that we would get the first produced customer exhaust back in late April early May. We had it installed in COlorado Springs by Brandon Grantham of Kleemann USA and have been thoroughly enjoying it ever since.



We’ve been out to a variety of Cars and Coffee events since the install and it’s really gotten the attention of all the fellow car enthusiasts. As many of you know, AWE was one of the original European aftermarket companies to produce exhausts for Audi and VW. They have since also expanded into the American market place, but this exhaust shows they are still a force to be reckoned with for the Euro market.








The exhaust is 100% designed and built in the USA by the team at AWE. It fits perfectly from the downpipes to the rear valance. The exhaust flaps are integrated and work with the factory Audi system. Meaning there is no extra key fob or switch to install. Simply shift into Sport or RS modes and the exhaust opens just like the factory unit does.

The overall sound is amazing, from the drone free daily to spirited driving it really brings alive this car and sounds like I believe it should have from the factory.






We are beyond happy with this new exhaust from AWE. Having had previous examples from them on our old 15’ Q5 3.0T we knew this was going to be great on the RS6. If you’ve been looking for an exhaust, please head over to AWEs webpage and give this exhaust a look. I promise you won’t be let down.

[KRS Aaron]

I'm thinking it may be a good idea to cancel the sport exhaust on my 2024...

[Flieger]

I'm thinking it may be a good idea to cancel the sport exhaust on my 2024...

If you can…I definitely would. With the release today and it being on sale for $4995 it’s the only fully US built and manufactured exhaust available for the C8 RS6 Avant and RS7 vehicles. It’s also the cheapest available full exhaust on the market with integrated valves.

[Runge]

curious how it compares to just res delete in regards to sound

[Flieger]

curious how it compares to just res delete in regards to sound

The timeline of setup for us was:

1st - RedStar 200 CEL Downpipes
2nd - Added RedStar Res Deletes
3rd - RedStar 200 CEL Downpipes to AWE SwitchPath Exhaust.

The difference along this path was overall exhaust tone. This is across the range from startup to cruising in Drive and then flaps open in Sport/RS mode.

There is a deeper tone across the range in the overall sound produced. With the flaps open you can hear the turbos when spooling. There is no drone in the cabin throughout the range of driving we have done over the last few months. And, it’s simply sounds amazing when starting it in a parking garage (but that’s just an added bonus).

[klimo]

It's def. cool. But at the end of the day the exhaust plus DPs is, what, $10,000?

[vdrsnk04]

Looks very nice, unfortunately to me though it doesn’t sound much different then catted dp, resonator delete and stock exhaust. Had AWE put an X-pipe in where their mid muffler is and gave it a different sound (from the X) it would have been a better result imo.

[Sara/AWE]

Looks very nice, unfortunately to me though it doesn’t sound much different then catted dp, resonator delete and stock exhaust. Had AWE put an X-pipe in where their mid muffler is and gave it a different sound (from the X) it would have been a better result imo.

Funny you mention the X, we did test with several different configurations including an X and the sound produced was not sufficient, which is why we went with the design you see featuring the 180 Tech resonator.

This system was designed for those who do not want to go catless, they can achieve a full-bodied sounding system with valve control and still be emissions compliant.

[MtnRinger]

Looks very nice, unfortunately to me though it doesn’t sound much different then catted dp, resonator delete and stock exhaust. Had AWE put an X-pipe in where their mid muffler is and gave it a different sound (from the X) it would have been a better result imo.

technically even a catted downpipe is illegal and is an instant warranty void.

[vdrsnk04]

Funny you mention the X, we did test with several different configurations including an X and the sound produced was not sufficient, which is why we went with the design you see featuring the 180 Tech resonator.

This system was designed for those who do not want to go catless, they can achieve a full-bodied sounding system with valve control and still be emissions compliant.

Always a reason for every design. Thanks for sharing, and nice looking exhaust.

Do you mind sharing what was not sufficient about the X in it?

[Sara/AWE]

Always a reason for every design. Thanks for sharing, and nice looking exhaust.

Do you mind sharing what was not sufficient about the X in it?

Sure thing! Typically X-pipes shift the exhaust sound profile to higher frequencies, giving a more exotic sound, at the expense of the lower frequencies.

The lower frequencies are needed on the very insulated RS6/7 chassis in order to increase the volume inside the car, so that the driver can hear the difference with the windows up. The higher pitch frequencies from an X just don’t penetrate to the interior as effectively.

In fact, the car is so well sound insulated it also led to the development of our ReflecTips, which have parabolic properties serving to reflect some of the tailpipe sound energy towards the front of the vehicle and towards the driver.

Further, we feel the character of the car is less “super car” and more “German hot rod” and feel that the lower, ground pounding tones suit this heavy beast better, rather that high pitch exotic sounds from an X-pipe.

We spend a lot of time engineering the acoustics of our exhaust systems, it’s what we’re known for. Nothing in our designs is ever accidental or thrown together. The RS6 system went through about 5 different revisions until we got the tone and balance just right, while also unlocking more power vs stock.

[vdrsnk04]

Sure thing! Typically X-pipes shift the exhaust sound profile to higher frequencies, giving a more exotic sound, at the expense of the lower frequencies.

The lower frequencies are needed on the very insulated RS6/7 chassis in order to increase the volume inside the car, so that the driver can hear the difference with the windows up. The higher pitch frequencies from an X just don’t penetrate to the interior as effectively.

In fact, the car is so well sound insulated it also led to the development of our ReflecTips, which have parabolic properties serving to reflect some of the tailpipe sound energy towards the front of the vehicle and towards the driver.

Further, we feel the character of the car is less “super car” and more “German hot rod” and feel that the lower, ground pounding tones suit this heavy beast better, rather that high pitch exotic sounds from an X-pipe.

We spend a lot of time engineering the acoustics of our exhaust systems, it’s what we’re known for. Nothing in our designs is ever accidental or thrown together. The RS6 system went through about 5 different revisions until we got the tone and balance just right, while also unlocking more power vs stock.

Thanks, and that makes sense for the type of sound you were after!

[KRS Aaron]

Is there any reason to think this won't fit the 2024 Performance? My dilemma is that I have a 2023 with the Performance on order.

[OneFastBMW]

Is there any reason to think this won't fit the 2024 Performance? My dilemma is that I have a 2023 with the Performance on order.

I wouldn’t think there would be an issue. You could double check the part number between the 2023 and the 2024.

[KRS Aaron]

I wouldn’t think there would be an issue. You could double check the part number between the 2023 and the 2024.

Hopefully someone reading this can look that up through official channels. I couldn't find any info on the 2024 part numbers.

[OneFastBMW]

It looks like from the turbos back is the same on the performance vs non-performance vehicles. The turbos themselves have a different part number.

[KRS Aaron]

It looks like from the turbos back is the same on the performance vs non-performance vehicles. The turbos themselves have a different part number.

Thanks. I'm basically saving $1000 by doing this!

[Sara/AWE]

Is there any reason to think this won't fit the 2024 Performance? My dilemma is that I have a 2023 with the Performance on order.

From our research we do not see why it would not, however, we have not yet been able to confirm.

If you are able to PM your vehicle info and VIN I can have our engineering team take a closer look.

[KRS Aaron]

From our research we do not see why it would not, however, we have not yet been able to confirm.

If you are able to PM your vehicle info and VIN I can have our engineering team take a closer look.

Thanks for the reply but I won't have my Performance for a year or so. I'm just trying to think ahead.

[Sara/AWE]

Thanks for the reply but I won't have my Performance for a year or so. I'm just trying to think ahead.

No worries, keep us in the loop as you get closer and we are happy to take another look to confirm.

Plus as soon as the data is readily available we will update 2024 fitments directly on the site.

[Flieger]

It's def. cool. But at the end of the day the exhaust plus DPs is, what, $10,000?

Not sure where you get 10k from…considering it’s currently listed by AWE for $4995. There are also plenty of options for DPs. Or you can forgo those if you want. But your are about $5k too high on your cost .

[CanuckRS]

Not sure where you get 10k from…considering it’s currently listed by AWE for $4995. There are also plenty of options for DPs. Or you can forgo those if you want. But your are about $5k too high my friend.

I'm pretty sure he wrote exhaust PLUS downpipes is 10k. Have you seen dp prices?
https://www.getunitronic.com/parts/e...ance-downpipes
Plus labor to install don't forget, that isn't cheap either.

[Flieger]

I'm pretty sure he wrote exhaust PLUS downpipes is 10k. Have you seen dp prices?
https://www.getunitronic.com/parts/e...ance-downpipes
Plus labor to install don't forget, that isn't cheap either.

Based on the cost of the exhaust and install, not sure what the issue is considering this setup (I’m only talking about the AWE system) is the only one at its current price point. While my review happens to include previously installed DPs, they are not required. I can’t help what others are being charged for labor either. I guess the old adage of you’ve got to pay to play comes up about right now.

When the other available full exhaust options are 6-11k (Milltek, Akrapovic, Capristo) the AWE is an absolute steal. Not to mention the sound it produces, build, fit quality and warranty, all from an amazing American company that’s been making exhausts for a VERY long time in the Audi/VW market.

As to you your question aboutut pricing on DPs, I’ve not looked lately…I’ve had mine since mid 21’ and originally paid $3150 for the set of GESI V2 Shielded DPs. I’m sure the prices have gone up based on the costs for raw materials, etc. In the end, you don’t have to change your DPs to run this system…so it’s purely up to the owner as to their final costs.

[PunjabiM3]

I don't get the point of this being a "switch path" exhaust with valves in the back since there is not a muffler back there. Valves open or closed, based on the design, I don't see how there would be a major difference in sound volume between open and closed valves, probably just a different pitch. Can you please elaborate? I am thinking of just getting resonator deletes for my incoming RS6, but open to a full exhaust at the right price point. Don't want to spend $10k plus for an Akra on a 5000 lb car.

[nate1031]

Sure thing! Typically X-pipes shift the exhaust sound profile to higher frequencies, giving a more exotic sound, at the expense of the lower frequencies.

The lower frequencies are needed on the very insulated RS6/7 chassis in order to increase the volume inside the car, so that the driver can hear the difference with the windows up. The higher pitch frequencies from an X just don’t penetrate to the interior as effectively.

In fact, the car is so well sound insulated it also led to the development of our ReflecTips, which have parabolic properties serving to reflect some of the tailpipe sound energy towards the front of the vehicle and towards the driver.

Further, we feel the character of the car is less “super car” and more “German hot rod” and feel that the lower, ground pounding tones suit this heavy beast better, rather that high pitch exotic sounds from an X-pipe.

We spend a lot of time engineering the acoustics of our exhaust systems, it’s what we’re known for. Nothing in our designs is ever accidental or thrown together. The RS6 system went through about 5 different revisions until we got the tone and balance just right, while also unlocking more power vs stock.

Thanks for the thorough answer. Everyone knows the res delete isn't much louder than stock unless you remove all three. Would you say your system is much louder than those with all three cut out? I've always wondered if the large portion of the stock exhaust that sits right behind the bumper also muffles the exhaust sound. It's interesting to see yours with only the small muffler closer to the DP's.

[azzurri0]

Hi all. I’ve been in the market for an exhaust for my rs6. I’ve read all threads here and elsewhere. Not sure if I want to mess with cats at least right now. What is the impression of how loud the AWE setup is compared to stock sport exhaust? I’ve seen all videos but personal experience is valuable to hear. Can anyone give some real world input from inside the car or outside the car on this full setup?
How does it compare to the Milltek or other options in reality?

[tempus_x]

I’ve posted a bunch about the AWE system we put on our RS in other threads but the short answer is, it’s been night and day from stock.

I could write a long answer as to why but this vid I put together right after we installed will do a better job.

[two+2]

This site was supposed to be for me to track build time and warranty issues. I was done with the mod stuff when I left BMW...

This will be the next hobby upgrade for me.

[Sara/AWE]

This site was supposed to be for me to track build time and warranty issues. I was done with the mod stuff when I left BMW...

This will be the next hobby upgrade for me.

I tell myself that every time I get a new daily and it never seems to last haha

Great choice of upgrade, I think the new soundtrack does the RS6 justice

[mike cip]

Love mine especially with the IE tune with extended burbles in Dynamic/RS mode!

[jmswashere]

Hi all. I’ve been in the market for an exhaust for my rs6. I’ve read all threads here and elsewhere. Not sure if I want to mess with cats at least right now. What is the impression of how loud the AWE setup is compared to stock sport exhaust? I’ve seen all videos but personal experience is valuable to hear. Can anyone give some real world input from inside the car or outside the car on this full setup?
How does it compare to the Milltek or other options in reality?

Close to stock tone, but with WAY more volume with the valves open. You get lots of burbles and pops on downshifts (but not as snap crackle pop as an Akra or Capristo). Build quality is great. Loud enough to set off sensitive car alarms if they are parked next to you on start up. I have had mine for almost a year now. It is awesome, and you cannot beat what you get for the price.

[azzurri0]

Where did the link to the other video go? Was trying to review it.

[DefCon Six]

Apologies if this is in here somewhere: any confirmed / measured performance increases anyone can share? Assume there may be some modest improvement in HP and Torque?

[Sara/AWE]

Apologies if this is in here somewhere: any confirmed / measured performance increases anyone can share? Assume there may be some modest improvement in HP and Torque?

We saw max gains of 8 hp and 14 lb-ft of torque at the wheels, you can check out the dyno sheets right here on the site under performance specs.

[spyderbret1]

The best part is the sound. The slight bump in hp and tq are nice but this sounds sooooooo much better than stock. And better than other exhausts but that's a matter of opinion. I love mine and have gotten a bunch of compliments since I had it installed. Worth it.