Best Intake For Wrx

Best Intake For Wrx: Compare 10 Kits by Fitment

A strong WRX intake should fit your exact model year and engine, with clearly stated hardware and performance claims to match your goals. Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP leads this lineup because it is listed for 2015+ WRX models, reports dyno-proven gains, and works with the stock intake duct. The choices here span newer WRX generations, older WRX and STI applications, and a Mishimoto airbox that is an add-on rather than a complete intake.

That distinction matters: a similar product title does not guarantee the right fit or a full replacement system. Check the manufacturer’s current fitment information for your specific trim and engine before ordering, especially where a listing covers STI models or several engine sizes.

Use the comparison and buying notes below to narrow the options by fit, claimed output, and configuration.

Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP is the leading choice for a broad 2015+ WRX fitment: its listing reports up to 33 whp and 30 wtq on a stock tune, and says it functions with the stock intake duct. It also claims up to 70 whp and 70 wtq on a more aggressive tune. Those figures are product claims, not a guarantee for every car or setup.

Confirm compatibility for your exact year and configuration before buying; newer and older WRXs may need a different kit.

Our Top Picks

Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BPBest Overall

Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP

Listed for 2015+ WRX, it reports up to 33 whp and 30 wtq on a stock tune, uses the stock intake duct, and includes a lifetime warranty.

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K&N 69-8011TTKBest 2018–2019 Fit

K&N 69-8011TTK

It specifically fits 2018–2019 WRX models and claims gains up to 17 hp and 14 ft-lb, with a heat shield and intake tube included.

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Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBKBest Newer WRX Fit

Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK

A direct fit for 2022+ WRX, it claims up to 13.3 hp and 16.6 lb-ft on a stock tune and includes an airbox and oiled filter.

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Compare WRX intake options by fitment and design

#ProductWeightBuy
12.27 kgView on Amazon
2
K&N 69-8011TTK2. K&N 69-8011TTKBest 2018–2019 Fit
9.6 lbView on Amazon
310.8 lbView on Amazon
4
K&N 69-8006TTK4. K&N 69-8006TTK2015–2017 WRX airflow upgrade
3.64 kgView on Amazon
5
aFe Takeda 56-70064R5. aFe Takeda 56-70064RBest Sealed Intake
—View on Amazon
6
Rtunes Racing WRX STI Kit6. Rtunes Racing WRX STI KitBest Reusable Filter
—View on Amazon
7
LIUWEIRACING WRX Intake Kit7. LIUWEIRACING WRX Intake Kit2002–2007 WRX heat-shield kit
—View on Amazon
8
anwenchapey WRX Intake Kit8. anwenchapey WRX Intake KitOlder WRX washable-filter refresh
—View on Amazon
9
K&N 69-8004TTK9. K&N 69-8004TTKDyno-documented K&N airflow
2.95 kgView on Amazon
10
Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-1510. Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-152015+ WRX Mishimoto airbox addition
6 lbView on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best Intake For Wrx

Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP

#1 · Best Overall

1. Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP

  • Weight: 2.27 kg

Best for: 2015+ WRX tune-flexible intake.

Why it ranks #1: Listed for 2015+ WRX, it reports up to 33 whp and 30 wtq on a stock tune, uses the stock intake duct, and includes a lifetime warranty.

Compatibility with the stock intake duct lets this Mishimoto system retain a factory airflow connection while targeting substantial dyno-proven gains. It lists up to 33 whp and 30 wtq on a stock tune, with larger claimed gains on a more aggressive tune, making tune choice central to its appeal.

Mishimoto lists compatibility with 2015+ Subaru WRX models and says installation takes under an hour while functioning with the stock intake duct. That duct compatibility can simplify the transition for owners retaining the factory connection. The reported gains differ by calibration: up to 33 whp and 30 wtq on stock tune, or up to 70 whp and 70 wtq on a more aggressive tune. Its wire-reinforced lower induction hose is described as resisting collapse under suction and boost.

Pros
  • Compatible with 2015+ Subaru WRX
  • Functions with the stock intake duct
  • Listed installation time is under an hour
  • Dyno-proven gains are stated for stock and aggressive tunes
Cons
  • The larger stated gains require a more aggressive tune.

Skip it if you own a 2022+ WRX and want a kit specifically listed for that generation; Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK names it directly.

This fits a 2015+ WRX buyer comfortable weighing stock-tune results against the larger claims tied to an aggressive tune. Stock-duct compatibility and the stated under-an-hour installation are useful boundaries for planning the job.

Full product details
BrandMishimoto
Included ComponentsPer Item Description
Item Weight2.27 kg
ManufacturerMishimoto
Part NumberMMAI-WRX-15BP
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime
Model NumberMMAI-WRX-15BP

Listed on Amazon as: Mishimoto – MMAI-WRX-15BP Subaru WRX Performance Air Intake, Polished, 2015+

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K&N 69-8011TTK

#2 · Best 2018–2019 Fit

2. K&N 69-8011TTK

  • Weight: 9.6 lb

Best for: 2018–2019 WRX sound and response.

Why it ranks #2: It specifically fits 2018–2019 WRX models and claims gains up to 17 hp and 14 ft-lb, with a heat shield and intake tube included.

K&N specifies up to 17 horsepower and 14 ft-lb of torque for this 2018–2019 WRX intake, pairing those claims with an engine growl during acceleration that quiets once at speed. That stated sound behavior distinguishes it from a setup focused on airflow claims alone.

The listed 2018–2019 Subaru WRX 2.0L H4 application gives this kit a defined fit window. K&N describes a less-restrictive path that supplies more cool, oxygen-rich air and estimates gains up to 17 horsepower and 14 ft-lb of torque. Its growl is described as most apparent under acceleration, returning to quiet once at speed, so buyers can weigh the sound change against daily driving. Included components list the air filter, intake tube, heat shield, edge trim, literature, and parts kit.

Pros
  • Specified for 2018–2019 Subaru WRX 2.0L H4
  • Up to 17 HP and 14 ft-lb claimed
  • Engine growl under acceleration quiets once at speed
  • Air filter, intake tube, and heat shield included
Cons
  • Fitment is limited to the listed 2018–2019 WRX application.

Skip it if you own a 2022+ WRX; Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK is listed for that newer generation.

This suits a 2018–2019 WRX owner seeking the stated output gains and an acceleration-focused intake note. Its listed year and engine application are the key fit boundaries, especially for owners of newer WRX generations.

Full product details
BrandK&N
Included ComponentsAir Filter^Intake Tube^Heat Shield^Edge Trim^Literature Packet^Parts Kit
Item Weight9.6 pounds
ManufacturerK&N Engineering
Part Number69-8011TTK
Manufacturer Warranty Description1,000,000 Miles/10 Year
Model Number69-8011TTK

Listed on Amazon as: K&N Cold Air Intake Kit: Increase Acceleration & Engine Growl, Guaranteed to Increase Horsepower up to 17HP: Compatible with 2.0L, H4, 2018-2019 SUBARU (WRX), 69-8011TTK

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Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK

#3 · Best Newer WRX Fit

3. Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK

  • Weight: 10.8 lb

Best for: 2022+ WRX stock-tune upgrade.

Why it ranks #3: A direct fit for 2022+ WRX, it claims up to 13.3 hp and 16.6 lb-ft on a stock tune and includes an airbox and oiled filter.

Direct fitment for the 2022+ Subaru WRX anchors this Mishimoto kit to the newer generation, and its dyno testing is specified for safe air/fuel ratios without tuning. The combination makes it relevant to owners seeking an airflow upgrade while retaining the stock tune, with a more aggressive intake tone under acceleration.

Mishimoto reports gains of up to 13.3 horsepower and 16.6 lb-ft on the stock tune, while its dyno testing checks air/fuel ratios without requiring tuning. That is a useful distinction for owners who want a bolt-on intake rather than a stated tune-dependent setup. The kit includes an aluminum pipe, CNC-machined MAF sensor housing, oiled high-flow filter, and powder-coated airbox. Direct fitment is listed for 2022+ WRX models, not earlier generations.

Pros
  • Direct fitment listed for 2022+ Subaru WRX
  • Dyno-tested for safe air/fuel ratios without tuning
  • Up to 13.3 HP and 16.6 lb-ft claimed on stock tune
  • Aluminum pipe, MAF housing, oiled filter, and airbox included
Cons
  • The high-flow filter is oiled, so buyers must account for filter maintenance.

Skip it if you drive a 2015–2020 WRX STI; Rtunes Racing HI-SB-01CK lists fitment for that STI range.

Choose this for a 2022+ WRX owner prioritizing listed stock-tune gains and dyno-checked air/fuel ratios. Its stated generation fitment and oiled filter are practical boundaries to consider before installation and upkeep.

Full product details
BrandMishimoto
Included Components(1) Aluminum Intake Pipe; (1) CNC-Machined Aluminum MAF Sensor Housing, (1) High-Flow, Oiled Filter; (1) Powder Coated Airbox, (1) Silicone Coupler, (3) Worm Gear Clamps, Mounting Hardware
Item Weight10.8 pounds
ManufacturerMishimoto
Part NumberMMAI-WRX-22MWBK
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionMishimoto Lifetime Warranty
Model NumberMMAI-WRX-22MWBK

Listed on Amazon as: Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK Cold Air Intake Kit for Subaru WRX 2022+

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K&N 69-8006TTK

#4

4. K&N 69-8006TTK

  • Weight: 3.64 kg

Best for: 2015–2017 WRX airflow upgrade.

Why it ranks #4: This K&N system is listed as compatible with 2015–2017 WRX and includes a high-flow filter; its listing cites dyno testing but gives no specific gain figure.

Wheel-dyno testing with reports included gives this K&N intake a concrete performance focus: buyers can review the test documentation alongside a system intended to increase horsepower and torque. Its less-restrictive airflow path brings more cool, oxygen-rich air toward the engine, while the intake also changes acceleration sound.

K&N says the system routes more cool, oxygen-rich air through a less-restrictive path, supporting the stated horsepower and torque gains without relying on an unspecified tuning claim. Wheel-based dyno testing and included reports give buyers documentation for the performance results. The product is identified for 2015–2017 Subaru WRX models, so its stated fit window is narrow; owners outside those years should not treat it as a universal WRX intake. K&N also describes a more audible engine growl.

Pros
  • Specified for 2015–2017 Subaru WRX
  • Less-restrictive airflow path brings cool, oxygen-rich air
  • Wheel-dyno testing reports are included
  • Intake is intended to add engine growl
Cons
  • Fitment is limited to the listed 2015–2017 WRX range.

Skip it if you own a 2022-or-newer WRX; Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK lists direct fitment for that generation.

This suits a 2015–2017 WRX owner seeking documented dyno testing, airflow changes, and a more audible engine note. The stated fitment window is the key boundary; check the model year before choosing it.

Full product details
BrandK&N
Included ComponentsPerformance Air Intake System
Item Weight3.64 kg
ManufacturerK&N Engineering
Part Number69-8006TTK
Manufacturer Warranty Description1,000,000 Miles
Model Number69-8006TTK

Listed on Amazon as: K&N Cold Air Intake System: High-Flow Air Filter, Increase Performance & Acceleration: Compatible with 2015-2017 Subaru: WRX. 69-8006TTK

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aFe Takeda 56-70064R

#5 · Best Sealed Intake

5. aFe Takeda 56-70064R

Best for: 2022–2026 WRX filter-inspection focus.

Why it ranks #5: The sealed Takeda intake is listed for 2022–2026 WRX and features a sight window plus a large Pro 5R oiled-cotton filter.

A clear sight window makes filter inspection the defining convenience of this aFe Power Takeda sealed intake, allowing owners to monitor filter condition without relying on a hidden airbox. The listing covers 2022–2026 Subaru WRX models with the H4 2.4L engine and pairs that window with a large Pro 5R oiled-cotton filter.

The sealed airbox is customized for the vehicle’s engine bay and is paired with a large Pro 5R oiled-cotton filter, connecting the enclosed intake layout with the product’s airflow focus. Its clear sight window gives owners a direct way to inspect filter condition during maintenance. aFe says the intake is dyno-tested and improves throttle response, while the specified 2022–2026 WRX H4 2.4L fitment narrows the audience. The oiled media is a maintenance consideration for buyers preferring dry filters.

Pros
  • Sealed airbox is customized for the engine bay
  • Clear window permits filter-condition inspection
  • Large Pro 5R oiled-cotton filter
  • Dyno-proven performance and improved throttle response are claimed
Cons
  • The Pro 5R filter uses oiled cotton media, not a dry-filter setup.

Skip it if you prefer a washable dry filter for a 2015–2020 WRX STI; Rtunes Racing HI-SB-01CK specifies that setup.

This suits a 2022–2026 WRX 2.4L owner who values a sealed intake and visible filter checks. Its oiled-cotton media and generation-specific fitment are the main upkeep and compatibility considerations.

Full product details
BrandaFe Power
Included ComponentsCold Air Intake
ManufacturerIAG Performance
Part Number56-70064R
Manufacturer Warranty Description2 Year Manufacturer
Model Number56-70064R
Additional InformationImportant Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Listed on Amazon as: aFe Power #56-70064R Takeda Sealed Intake for Subaru WRX 22-26 H4-2.4L (t)

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Rtunes Racing WRX STI Kit

#6 · Best Reusable Filter

6. Rtunes Racing WRX STI Kit

Best for: 2015–2020 WRX STI reusable filter.

Why it ranks #6: Its listed fitment is 2015–2020 WRX STI 2.5L Turbo; it includes a heat shield and washable, reusable dry cone filter.

A direct-bolt-on aluminum pipe, cone filter, and heat-shield housing replace the factory airbox without cutting or drilling, giving this Rtunes Racing kit a straightforward installation proposition. Its listed application is the 2015–2020 WRX STI with a 2.5L turbo engine.

The aluminum pipe carries incoming air past a heat-shield panel, which the product describes as limiting heat absorption from outside sources. The cone filter is washable and reusable, and its dry construction does not require oil, shaping a maintenance routine around washing rather than oiling. Clamps, couplers, and hardware are included, and the direct-bolt-on design requires no cutting or drilling. Fitment is specifically listed for 2015–2020 WRX STI 2.5L turbo models.

Skip it if you have a standard 2022+ WRX; aFe Power 56-70064R lists the WRX 2.4L application.

This is aimed at a 2015–2020 WRX STI owner who wants a reusable dry filter and a no-cut installation. Its STI-specific listing is the boundary: the supplied information does not list the standard WRX.

Full product details
BrandRtunes Racing
Included Componentsmounting hardware
ManufacturerRtunes Racing
Part NumberHI-SB-01CK
Manufacturer Warranty Description1 Year
Model NumberHI-SB-01CK

Listed on Amazon as: Cold Air Intake Kit w/Heat Shield for 15-20 WRX STI 2.5L Turbo (Black)

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LIUWEIRACING WRX Intake Kit

#7

7. LIUWEIRACING WRX Intake Kit

Best for: 2002–2007 WRX heat-shield kit.

Why it ranks #7: This kit lists fitment for 2002–2007 WRX and STI engine configurations, includes a heat shield, and claims 8–12% more horsepower.

A heat shield is included with this cold-air intake system, pairing airflow hardware with a barrier intended to manage heat exposure in the engine bay. Its fitment details distinguish 2002–2005 2.0L WRX, 2006–2007 2.5L WRX, and 2004–2007 2.5L WRX STI applications.

The listed fitment separates WRX applications by engine and year, and also names 2004–2007 WRX STI 2.5L models; owners need to match both details rather than rely on the broad title. The high-flow filter and smooth, wide tubing are presented as less restrictive than factory tubing, linking airflow hardware to the stated performance aim. A heat shield comes with the system, while the product claims horsepower, torque, and fuel-efficiency improvements without supplied test conditions.

Pros
  • Heat shield is included
  • Fitment details distinguish WRX years and engine sizes
  • High-flow filter is paired with smooth, wide tubing
  • One-year warranty is listed
Cons
  • The stated fitment does not include WRX models newer than 2007.

Skip it if you own a 2015–2020 WRX STI; Rtunes Racing HI-SB-01CK lists that later STI fitment.

This targets owners of the specifically listed 2002–2007 WRX and STI applications who want a heat shield alongside airflow hardware. The year-and-engine breakdown is essential; it is not presented as a later-generation fit.

Full product details
BrandLIUWEIRACING
Included Componentscold air intake kit
ManufacturerLIUWEIRACING
Part NumberDR08-RD-BK
Manufacturer Warranty Description1 year
Model NumberLWC-DR01-BK-RD

Listed on Amazon as: Cold Air Intake System + Heat Shield Compatible with 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 2.5L 2.0L

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anwenchapey WRX Intake Kit

#8

8. anwenchapey WRX Intake Kit

Best for: Older WRX washable-filter refresh.

Why it ranks #8: It is listed for 2002–2007 Impreza WRX and STI with 2.0L or 2.5L engines and includes a washable, reusable cone filter.

A washable, reusable cone filter is the defining practical feature of this intake kit, letting owners clean and reuse the filter rather than replace it after each service interval. The listing covers Subaru Impreza WRX and STI models from 2002–2007 with 2.0L or 2.5L engines.

The stated 2002–2007 compatibility spans listed 2.0L and 2.5L Subaru Impreza WRX and STI applications, making the year and engine range important when selecting it. Its T-304 polished aluminum construction is described as lightweight and intended to dissipate heat, while the washable, reusable high-flow cone filter supports repeat maintenance instead of routine filter replacement. The product claims a 7–10% horsepower increase, but provides no specific dyno procedure or tuning conditions in the supplied details.

Pros
  • Listed for 2002–2007 Impreza WRX and STI
  • Compatibility includes 2.0L and 2.5L engines
  • T-304 polished aluminum construction
  • Washable and reusable high-flow cone filter
Cons
  • The listed fitment ends at 2007, excluding later WRX generations.

Skip it if you have a 2015+ WRX; Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP lists compatibility with that newer generation.

This is a candidate for owners of the listed 2002–2007 Impreza WRX or STI who value a reusable filter and aluminum construction. Its year and engine coverage are strict boundaries, so later-generation owners need another application.

Full product details
Brandanwenchapey
Included Components1* Cold Air Intake System Induction Kit
ManufacturerANWENCHAPEY
Part NumberDR01-BK-RD
Manufacturer Warranty Description90Days
Model NumberDR01-BK-RD

Listed on Amazon as: Cold Air Intake System Induction Kit Compatible With Subaru Impreza WRX STI 2002-2007 2.5L 2.0L

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K&N 69-8004TTK

#9

9. K&N 69-8004TTK

  • Weight: 2.95 kg

Best for: Dyno-documented K&N airflow.

Why it ranks #9: The listing gives no WRX year or engine fitment, so confirm vehicle compatibility before considering this K&N intake for a WRX.

Included wheel-dyno reports give this K&N intake a documentation-first angle, pairing performance testing with a less-restrictive path for cool, oxygen-rich air. The supplied listing identifies model 69-8004TTK and describes intended horsepower and torque gains, but does not specify a WRX year range in the available product details.

K&N attributes its horsepower and torque gains to increasing cool, oxygen-rich airflow through a less-restrictive path. Wheel-based dynamometer testing and reports included with the system let buyers consult the manufacturer’s performance documentation. The listing also describes an improved engine sound, adding an auditory change alongside the airflow objective. The supplied product information does not state a vehicle year range or specific WRX application, so this kit is a poor choice when fitment must be established from the listing alone.

Pros
  • Less-restrictive path for cool, oxygen-rich air
  • Wheel-based dyno testing is specified
  • Testing reports are included with the system
  • Intake is described as changing engine sound
Cons
  • The supplied listing does not specify a WRX fitment or year range.

Skip it if you need explicit year-specific WRX fitment; K&N 69-8011TTK names 2018–2019 WRX compatibility.

This may suit a buyer who already has verified the application and values K&N’s included dyno documentation and airflow focus. The supplied listing leaves WRX year fitment unspecified, which is a decisive limitation for selection.

Full product details
BrandK&N
Included ComponentsAir Intake Kit
Item Weight2.95 kg
ManufacturerK&N Engineering
Part Number69-8004TTK
Manufacturer Warranty Description1 year
Model Number69-8004TTK

Listed on Amazon as: K&N Cold Air Intake System: High-Flow Air Filter, 69-8004TTK

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Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-15

#10

10. Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-15

  • Weight: 6 lb

Best for: 2015+ WRX Mishimoto airbox addition.

Why it ranks #10: This is an airbox accessory for a Mishimoto intake, not a complete intake kit; its listing says it fits the stock intake duct.

Compatibility with the stock intake duct lets this Mishimoto airbox work around a factory duct connection, while its stated role is to direct more cold outside air into a Mishimoto performance intake. It is an airbox addition rather than a complete intake kit, an important distinction for shoppers comparing systems.

The airbox is listed for the 2015+ Subaru WRX and fits with the stock air intake duct, which helps preserve that factory connection. Mishimoto says it also fits its front-mount intercooler kit, offering a specified pairing for owners using that component. Its powder-coated steel construction provides the enclosure, and the stated purpose is to divert more cold outside air into a Mishimoto intake. Because the listing describes an airbox, buyers should not mistake it for a standalone intake system.

Skip it if you need a complete intake kit for a 2022+ WRX; Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK lists a full intake kit.

This suits a 2015+ WRX owner adding an airbox to a Mishimoto intake, particularly when retaining the stock duct or using Mishimoto’s front-mount intercooler kit. It is not a standalone intake replacement.

Full product details
BrandMishimoto
Item Weight6 pounds
ManufacturerMishimoto
Part NumberMMAB-WRX-15
Manufacturer Warranty DescriptionLimited Lifetime
Model NumberMMAB-WRX-15

Listed on Amazon as: Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-15 Air Intake w/Airbox Fits Subaru WRX 2015+ Black

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Avoiding WRX intake fitment traps

The main fitment trap is treating WRX and WRX STI applications as interchangeable. Several listings name both, but their stated year and engine ranges differ: the Rtunes kit specifies 2015–2020 WRX STI 2.5L Turbo, while LIUWEIRACING lists separate WRX and STI engine ranges from 2002–The newer Mishimoto and aFe options begin at 2022, and K&N 69-8011TTK specifies 2018–2019 WRX.

A broad title alone is not enough to establish fit for a particular trim. A second trap is mistaking an accessory for a complete intake: Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-15 is an airbox designed to work with a Mishimoto intake, rather than a replacement intake system.

Before ordering, match year, model, engine, and whether the listing is a full kit or an add-on. If any of those details are unclear, verify directly with the manufacturer.

How to Choose a WRX Intake

Model-year and engine fitment

Start by matching the kit to your WRX’s exact year, trim, and engine; the listings cover distinct applications, not one universal fit. Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP says 2015+, K&N 69-8011TTK names 2018–2019, and Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK and aFe Takeda 56-70064R are listed for 2022+ and 2022–2026 respectively. Older options name 2002–2007 WRX and STI configurations, while Rtunes specifies WRX STI rather than WRX.

Choose the precisely matched listing for a newer car; older-car owners should pay particular attention to the listed engine and STI designation. Confirm fitment with the manufacturer before purchase if your exact configuration is not stated.

Power claims and tune assumptions

Compare both the stated gain and the conditions attached to it; advertised output varies, and not every figure uses the same basis. Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP claims up to 33 whp and 30 wtq on a stock tune, rising to up to 70 whp and 70 wtq on a more aggressive tune. Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK claims up to 13.3 hp and 16.6 lb-ft on a stock tune, while K&N 69-8011TTK claims up to 17 hp and 14 ft-lb.

These are manufacturer-listed claims, not directly comparable test results. If you want a product with a stated stock-tune claim, consider the newer Mishimoto or K&N 2018–2019 kit.

If you are evaluating a tuned setup, read the tuning conditions carefully.

Filter and intake configuration

Look at whether you want a sealed enclosure, an exposed cone arrangement, or an airbox accessory, and check the filter type. The aFe Takeda 56-70064R lists a sealed design, a sight window, and a Pro 5R oiled-cotton filter. Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK includes a powder-coated airbox and high-flow oiled filter, while Rtunes Racing WRX STI Kit specifies a washable, reusable dry filter and heat shield.

Those distinctions affect what you will inspect and maintain, so follow the manufacturer’s filter-care instructions. The aFe setup suits buyers prioritizing a sealed design and visible filter inspection; Rtunes suits buyers specifically seeking a reusable dry filter for its stated STI fitment.

Treat Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-15 separately: it is an airbox add-on, not a full intake.

Which WRX Intake Should You Choose?

For a broadly listed 2015+ WRX and a stated stock-tune gain, choose Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP: it reports up to 33 whp and 30 wtq and works with the stock intake duct. Owners of a 2018–2019 WRX can choose K&N 69-8011TTK, which names those years and claims up to 17 hp. For a 2022+ WRX, Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-22MWBK offers a direct-fit listing and specified stock-tune gains; aFe Takeda 56-70064R is the alternative if you prefer a sealed intake with a filter sight window.

For a 2015–2020 WRX STI, consider the specifically stated Rtunes Racing WRX STI Kit. Older WRX/STI owners should compare LIUWEIRACING and anwenchapey against their exact engine.

Skip Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-15 unless you need its airbox accessory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will an aftermarket WRX intake require an ECU tune?

It depends on the specific intake and vehicle setup. Some listings state gains on a stock tune, while others do not provide that information. Check the manufacturer’s fitment and tuning guidance for your exact WRX before installation; do not assume a different intake is safe or calibrated for stock engine management.

Can an intake change the WRX’s air-fuel ratio or drivability?

Yes. An intake can affect airflow and engine calibration, so a mismatch may change air-fuel ratio or drivability. The listed stock-tune claims apply to the specific products that make them, not every intake or configuration.

Follow the manufacturer’s guidance and consult a qualified tuner if the car runs poorly or needs calibration.

How should I maintain a washable or oiled intake filter?

Follow the filter maker’s cleaning and re-oiling instructions, and use only the specified products and amounts. Inspect the filter at the recommended intervals and reinstall it only when fully prepared as directed. The product titles do not establish that every included filter is washable or oiled, so verify its type before servicing.

How do I choose an intake for my WRX model year?

Match the listing to your exact year, engine, and configuration before buying. The options here identify different fitments, including 2015+ WRX, 2022+ WRX, 2018–2019 WRX, and 2015–2020 WRX STI. Older WRX/STI owners should compare the listed kit against their exact engine rather than relying on the model name alone.

What is the difference between a sealed intake and an airbox accessory?

A sealed intake is a complete intake design; the listed aFe Takeda option is identified as sealed and has a filter sight window. The Mishimoto MMAB-WRX-15 is an air intake with an airbox. The article’s verdict says to skip that Mishimoto unless you specifically need its airbox accessory.

Final Words

Choose by exact fitment first, then by the design and tuning guidance that suit your setup. The Mishimoto MMAI-WRX-15BP is the leading broadly listed choice for 2015+ WRX, with stated stock-tune gains that are not guaranteed for every car. For 2022+ WRX, compare its direct-fit Mishimoto option with the sealed aFe; for older cars, verify engine compatibility carefully.

Avoid treating one kit’s claims as universal.

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