Diesel Exhaust vs Gas Exhaust: The Ultimate Truck Upgrade Guide

Upgrading your truck’s exhaust system is one of the best ways to boost performance, enhance sound, and personalize your ride. A key question our customers often ask, what are the differences between a diesel exhaust vs a gas exhaust? Whether you drive a gas-powered truck or a diesel workhorse, there’s an MBRP exhaust option tailored to your needs!

From cat-back to turbo-back, and from muffler deletes to DPF-back systems, this guide breaks down every option so you can make an informed decision—and unleash your truck’s full potential.

Why Upgrade Your Truck's Exhaust?

From better airflow and lower backpressure to improved sound and fuel efficiency, a performance exhaust system helps your truck perform at its best. An aftermarket performance exhaust system is engineered for both street and off-road performance, offering tailored solutions for every kind of truck (and every kind of driver.)

Exhaust System Types for Gas Trucks

1. Axle-Back Exhaust

Replaces: Rear section from the rear axle to the tipsBest For: Sound and style upgrades with easy installation

An axle-back system delivers that deep MBRP tone with a straightforward bolt-on design. Ideal for daily drivers who want to enhance sound and aesthetics without diving into more extensive mods.

2. Cat-Back Exhaust

Replaces: Everything from the catalytic converter backBest For: Performance, sound, and fuel economy

A cat-back system is the most popular option for gas trucks, offering noticeable horsepower and torque gains while enhancing your truck’s exhaust tone. Perfect for those who want a balance of performance and drivability.

3. Muffler Bypass/Muffler Delete

Replaces: Factory muffler with straight pipeBest For: Aggressive sound, weight savings

If you want raw, unrestricted sound, a muffler bypass kit eliminates the muffler altogether. Warning: This option is loud, and not always street-legal in some regions.

Exhaust System Types for Diesel Trucks

Diesel trucks have more specialized exhaust options due to emissions equipment like DPFs, DEF systems, and EGR valves. These systems are designed to maximize power and towing ability while staying compliant where needed.

1. DPF-Back Exhaust

Replaces: From the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) to the tailpipeBest For: Style enhancement

MBRP DPF-back systems are emissions-compliant upgrades that improve exhaust flow while maintaining factory emissions components. Ideal for daily-driven diesels or work trucks in regulated areas–and for those that just want to spice up the look of their truck.

2. Cat-Back Exhaust (Diesel)

Replaces: From the catalytic converter backBest For: Sound, looks, and light performance improvements

Like gas setups, diesel cat-backs enhance tone and reduce backpressure. You won’t see big horsepower gains without other mods, but you’ll definitely hear and feel a difference.

3. Turbo-Back Exhaust

Replaces: From the turbocharger all the way backBest For: Maximum performance

A turbo-back system removes all stock restrictions and gives serious performance and sound gains. These systems offer massive improvements in airflow and can also give significant horsepower increases.

Choose your Exit Style Configuration

No matter if you have a gas or diesel truck, in many cases you have the option to choose your exit style too. Some exit style options are:

• Single Side Exit: Clean, stock-style look with upgraded performance
• Dual Rear Exit: Symmetrical style with aggressive presence
• Dual Side Exit: Great for lifted trucks or running boards
• Turndown Exit: Minimalist and functional, often used in off-road setups
• Dual Pre-Axle Exit: Unique and retro look with performance flair
• Quad Rear Exit: High-performance, head-turning appearance

Each exit style affects not only the look of your truck but the way sound is distributed. MBRP systems are designed for optimal flow and tone, no matter your configuration.

Gas vs. Diesel Truck Exhaust: What’s the Difference?

Why MBRP Is the Right Choice

With over two decades of innovation and real-world testing, MBRP exhaust systems are trusted by truck owners across North America. Here's why:

• Vehicle-Specific Engineering for perfect fit and function
• T304 and T409 Stainless Steel for long-lasting durability
• Mandrel-Bent Tubing for superior flow
• Dyno-Proven Gains in horsepower, torque, and efficiency
• Multiple Sound Profiles from quiet to aggressive
• Made for Work and Play—from job site haulers to weekend trail trucks

Whether you're building a diesel powerhouse or fine-tuning your gas-powered pickup, MBRP delivers exhaust systems that perform, last, and look the part.

Final Thoughts

Upgrading your truck’s exhaust is more than just a sound modification. It’s a step toward better performance, fuel economy, and individuality. Whether you're in a big lifted diesel rig, or cruising in a gas-powered pickup, MBRP has the right system for you.

Explore MBRP’s full line of gas and diesel truck exhaust systems and find the perfect upgrade for your build.