The Best Jeep Gladiator Aftermarket Exhaust Systems

Why Install an Aftermarket Exhaust System?

So, why install an aftermarket exhaust system in the first place? These modifications have several benefits, with the most commonly cited being improved aesthetics, enhanced performance, and a deep, throaty exhaust note.

Aesthetics

While improving aesthetics isn't the primary goal of installing an aftermarket exhaust, it's a factor worth mentioning. Most factory exhaust systems, the JT Gladiator included, terminate the exhaust with a simple bare tailpipe—in the case of the JT, a hidden turndown beside the spare tire. 

On the other hand, aftermarket systems typically exit below the rear bumper or diagonally from the rear bedsides. With premiumexhaust tips and more appealing placement, aftermarket exhaust systems significantly boost aesthetics.

Performance

Next, let’s talk about performance benefits. Factory exhaust systems are notoriously restricting, smothering the engine at higher RPMs. Boosting exhaust flow is one of the most effective means of improving performance, and an aftermarket exhaust system is a popular solution. 

Aftermarket exhaust systems feature larger-diameter piping, mandrel bends, and high-flow resonators/mufflers, eliminating restrictions and significantly improving exhaust flow. In most cases, this simple modification can net dyno-proven performance gains of approximately five horsepower, which only increases when paired with an air intake and tuner.

Exhaust Tone

Last but certainly not least, let’s discuss sound benefits. Improving exhaust tone is the most popular reason for upgrading exhaust systems, enabling the 3.6L Pentastar V6 to truly sing. While not a throaty, high-revving V8, the tone from the large-displacement six-cylinder—when breathing through an aftermarket exhaust system—feels right at home. 

Aftermarket exhaust systems accomplish this boost in decibels and tone via precision-tuned mufflers and resonators. The result is an exhaust note that’s deep and throaty at higher RPMs yet quiet and refined at cruising speeds.

Exhaust System Types

Exhaust systems come in several styles, ranging from quick and easy bolt-on axle-back systems to full-replacement header-back systems. Which is right for you? 

Axle-Back

Axle-back exhaust systems are minimally invasive, replacing only the rear-most section of the exhaust system—traditionally, everything rearward from the axle. These systems offer moderate tonal changes and minimal performance gains. However, they’re also the least expensive and least labor-intensive to install. 

Cat-Back

Cat-back exhaust systems are the most popular style. These systems replace everything rearward from the primary catalytic converter. Cat-back exhaust systems offer considerable performance gains and tonal changes while maintaining your Gladiator’s street legality by retaining all emissions components. 

Header-Back

Header-back exhaust systems are the most invasive of exhaust systems, replacing the entire exhaust system—from the exhaust manifolds to the tailpipe. While commonplace on older vehicles, most manufacturers don’t produce header-back exhaust systems for newer applications—like the 2019+ Jeep Gladiator—as they tend to modify emissions equipment. In most cases, we only recommend header-back exhaust systems for off-highway applications.

Top Jeep Gladiator Exhaust Systems

With some benefits and styles covered, it’s time to check out our top-reviewed exhaust systems. We've carefully selected each item on this list to ensure the perfect blend of style, performance, and sound.

Borla ATAK Exhaust System

If you’re craving maximum sound and a deep, aggressive exhaust note, check out the ATAK Exhaust System from Borla. As Borla’s loudest exhaust system, the ATAK transforms the Gladiator’s mild hum into the rumble enthusiasts crave. 

The Borla ATAK features durable T-304 stainless steel construction, offering exceptional corrosion resistance—far beyond conventional aluminized steel. Mandrel-bent tubing ensures smooth, efficient exhaust flow for dyno-proven performance gains. 

Borla ATAK exhaust systems are proudly made in the USA and are backed by a one-million-mile warranty.  

Features: 

• Constructed from T-304 stainless steel

• The most aggressive Borla exhaust system

• ATAK mufflers are custom-built to deliver the perfect growl

• Mandrel-bent tubing ensures peak exhaust flow

• Dyno-tested to improve horsepower and torque

• Polished or black-chromed tips are available

• Backed by a one-million-mile-warranty

• Made in the USA

MBRP Black Series Exhaust System

Sleek, stealthy, and aggressive—what’s not to like? The MBRP Black Series Exhaust System perfectly complements a rugged off-road build, especially with a blacked-out motif. 

The MBRP Black Series Exhaust System is built to last with a rugged aluminized steel construction. Its semi-gloss black powder coat finish provides additional corrosion protection, enabling a long service life in even the harshest conditions. 

Aside from aesthetics, the MBRP Black Series Exhaust System features mandrel-bent tubing and precision-tuned mufflers for unmatched performance and sound. MBRP backs each order with a 3-year structural warranty and a 1-year finish warranty.  

Features: 

• Heavy-duty aluminized steel construction

• T-304 stainless steel exhaust tip

• Durable semi-gloss black powder coat finish

• Mandrel bent to reduce heat and increase airflow

• Tuned to get the optimal sound from your truck

• Dyno proven to increase horsepower and torque

• Simple bolt-on installation with factory-style clamps

• 3-year structural | 1-year finish warranty

AWE Tread Exhaust Systems

Supe up your Gladiator with the AWE Tread Exhaust System, offering dyno-proven performance gains, performance-oriented sound, and a sleek appearance from its single or dual-exit black exhaust tips. 

The AWE Tread Exhaust System is engineered to look as good as it performs, featuring 3-in. diameter mandrel-bent tubing to maximize exhaust flow. While deep and throaty at higher RPMs, the AWE Tread’s patented drone-canceling technology ensures quiet, comfortable performance on the street. With multiple tip and exit options, the AWE Tread offers aesthetics to suit any Jeeper. 

AWE backs the Tread Exhaust System with a limited lifetime structural warranty and 1-year warranty on tip finishes.  

Features: 

• T-304 stainless steel construction

• 3-in. CNC mandrel-bent tubing

• Patented drone-canceling technology

• No cutting required

• No-check-engine-light guarantee

• Multiple tip and exit options

• Lifetime structural | 1-year tip finish warranty

AWE Trail Exhaust Systems

For the avid off-roader, you can’t beat the AWE Trail Exhaust System. With a high-tuck, maximum-clearance tailpipe, the AWE Trail ensures maximum ground clearance in all conditions—no more tearing up the factory tailpipe over obstacles. 

With rugged T-304 stainless steel construction, the AWE Trail Exhaust System is engineered to outlast your Jeep. That’s why AWE backs each order with a limited lifetime warranty. Performance-wise, AWE’s mandrel-bent 3-in. tubing ensures maximum exhaust flow for dyno-proven gains. Like the AWE Tread, the Trail also employs AWE’s patented drone-canceling technology and no-check-engine-light guarantee for comfortable, error-free operation.  

Features: 

• T-304 stainless steel construction

• 3-in. CNC mandrel-bent tubing

• Patented drone-canceling technology

• No cutting required

• No-check-engine-light guarantee

• High-tuck, maximum-clearance exit

• Lifetime warranty

Flowmaster FlowFX Exhaust System

With a name like Flowmaster, you’ll need a product to back up that claim—and boy, does the renowned manufacturer deliver. The Flowmaster FlowFX Exhaust System is one such product, offering unmatched performance through mandrel-bent stainless steel exhaust tubing and a high-flow FlowFX muffler. 

Sound-wise, the FlowFX delivers Flowmaster’s classic exhaust note—aggressive at high RPMs and subtle while cruising and idling. 

Flowmaster backs the FlowFX Exhaust System with a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing and material defects. 

Features: 

• Durable stainless steel construction

• Mandrel-bent tubing for maximum flow

• Dyno-tested and proven to increase performance

• Includes FlowFX muffler

• Uses factory hanger locations for easy installation

• Limited lifetime warranty