The Best Truck Performance Parts

Updated on Oct 16, 2025

There’s no such thing as too much power. Especially in the world of torquey pickups and punchy powerplants, there’s always room to squeeze out a few extra ponies. Fortunately, extracting horsepower and torque from modern powerplants is a straightforward process with aftermarket performance parts from RealTruck.  

At RealTruck, we carry a wide selection of performance parts, ranging from plug-and-play programmers to complete replacement exhaust systems. However, with so many products claiming to be the best in their field, making the right choice can be challenging. To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a list of our best performance parts based on overall popularity with customers and RealTruck’s expert recommendations.

Cold Air Intake Systems

One of the most popular performance parts is a cold air intake system. As one of the three ingredients to combustion, airflow (alongside fuel and ignition) is a major contributor to the creation of horsepower and torque. Typically, more air equals more power, so installing a cold air intake (CAI) is a significant first step in boosting performance. 

S&B's cold air intake system is one of the most popular intakes on the market today and is available with both dry and oiled filter elements. K&N continues to be arguably the biggest name in aftermarket intake systems, and the 63 Series Aircharger, with its custom-molded intake tube, provides colder, denser air to your truck's engine. 

RealTruck’s own Rugged Ridge also joins the party with its cold air intake. All of these kits feature reusable air filters that can be cleaned or oiled during service rather than replaced. For additional information on how these systems function, check out our comprehensive air intake resource, which covers what they are, how they work, and if they’re worth it.

S&B Cold Air Intakes

The S&B cold air intake is a solid upgrade if you're looking to increase power and efficiency. Designed to increase horsepower and improve fuel economy, it features several updates over the factory air intake system to ensure a higher volume of cool, dense air enters the intake tract and hits the cylinders. 

Some upgrades include heavy-duty silicone couplers and seals designed to withstand years of use, an oversized, fully enclosed air box that helps keep engine heat out, and a clear inspection lid that allows you to verify the filter’s condition at a glance. 

S&B provides options, too—Choose between a washable 8-layer oiled-cotton filter or a dry, replaceable version. Regardless of the filter type, the S&B cold air intake is ISO 5011 tested for filtration performance and can be easily installed in your garage. Like many trusted performance parts, it’s made in the USA and backed by a million-mile warranty.

Features: 

  • Increase horsepower and improve fuel economy

  • Heavy-duty silicone intake couplers and tube seals

  • Simple DIY installations

  • Available with 8-layer, washable, oiled-cotton or dry replaceable filters

  • Oversized, fully-enclosed air box

  • Clear inspection lid to monitor the filter's condition

  • Filters are tested to ISO 5011 Filtration Standard

  • Backed by a million-mile warranty

  • Made in the USA

K&N 63 Series AirCharger High Performance Air Intakes

K&N is one of the most recognizable names in the air intake industry, renowned for its high-quality and highly efficient performance parts. The K&N 63 Series AirCharger air intake is one such product, delivering maximum airflow for maximum performance. 

This vehicle-specific intake system utilizes factory mounting points for hassle-free and modification-free installation. It’s also compatible with the factory computer, alleviating the need for custom tuning.

Upgrades such as large-diameter polyethylene intake tubes and massive conical filters promote airflow, thereby improving power and efficiency. A million-mile warranty backs K&N 63 Series AirChargers.   

Features: 

  • Guaranteed to add horsepower and increase acceleration

  • Vehicle-specific design makes for easy installation

  • Lasts up to 100,000 miles before service is required

  • Replaces OEM filter and air box

  • Washable and reusable filter

  • Works with OEM computer systems

  • Mounts in preexisting factory mounting points and holes

  • Backed by a million-mile warranty

Rugged Ridge Cold Air Intake

Rugged, performance-oriented, and built to last—that’s the idea behind RealTruck's Rugged Ridge cold air intake. This intake system enables maximum performance by featuring a high-flow, polished aluminum intake tube, a black powder-coated heat shield, and a high-flow dry air filter. 

Regardless of your state, this intake system is 100 percent street-legal. Dyno studies have shown power increases of approximately 10 horsepower and 12 ft-lbs of torque—that’s power you can feel. Rugged Ridge backs each cold air intake with a 5-year limited warranty. 

Features: 

  • Polished aluminum intake tube

  • Black powder-coated heat shield

  • Dry filter requires no oiling

  • Adds 10 horsepower and 12 ft-lbs of torque

  • 50-state legal

  • 5-year limited warranty

Programmers and Tuners

A programmer, sometimes referred to as a tuner, plugs into your vehicle's OBDII port and allows you to override your truck's computer programming with new programs or "tunes" that enhance horsepower and torque. These tunes modify specific engine parameters, including ignition timing and air-fuel ratio, to improve power throughout the entire RPM range. 

To learn more about tuners and programmers, check out our overview of what tuners do and if they’re worth it.

Pulsar LT Programmer

The Pulsar LT Programmer from Edge is a simple, plug-and-play module that gives you control over your truck’s performance—no PCM mods or complicated installs required. Designed to streamline tuning, it replaces multiple devices, such as throttle boosters and calibration tools, with a single, easy-to-use system. You can adjust throttle response, tire size, TPMS thresholds, speed limiter, and more, all through your factory steering wheel controls.

Because it connects directly to your vehicle's existing wiring, installation takes just minutes and doesn’t require tools. Even better, it’s completely undetectable when removed. Whether you're dialing in performance for daily driving or weekend towing, the Pulsar LT offers real-time control without the hassle of flashing or custom tuning. Backed by a one-year warranty, it's an excellent option for anyone looking to enhance their setup with minimal effort.

Features: 

  • Performance tuning module

  • On-the-fly power adjustment via steering wheel control buttons

  • Improves fuel economy, towing capabilities, and performance

  • Choose between multiple throttle sensitivity levels

  • Speed limited adjustment (82-140 MPH)

  • Adjust TPMS threshold (1-99 PSI)

  • Tire size adjustment (29-50.9 in.)

  • Adjust gear ratio (2.00-6.99)

  • Clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTC)

  • Disable DFM (dynamic fuel management) and auto start/stop

  • No PCM modification is required

  • Undetectable once removed

  • Limited 1-year warranty

DiabloSport Trinity 2 Platinum Programmer

Digital car dashboard displaying RPM, speed, boost, ECT, fuel pressure, IAT, and other metrics.

Take your tuning game to the next level with the Trinity 2 programmer from DiabloSport. This advanced tuner features a vibrant 5-inch full-color touchscreen that allows you to easily view real-time engine data and load tunes for various applications, including mileage, towing, daily driving, or all-out performance. 

The interface is intuitive and responsive, making navigation between features and adjusting settings feel seamless. Installation is just as user-friendly—mount the screen with the included suction cup and plug it into your vehicle’s OBDII port. 

Whether you're looking for improved fuel efficiency or more aggressive performance, the Trinity 2 brings modern tuning capabilities to your fingertips without the headache. DiabloSport backs the Trinity 2 with a limited 1-year warranty. 

Features: 

  • Full color, high definition 5-in. touch screen

  • Performance tuning for mileage, towing, daily driving, and performance

  • Capability to store and deliver custom tunes created by 3rd party tuners using Diablo's CMR software

  • Customizable gauge screen layouts

  • Customize and choose between 5 gauge screens per layout

  • Custom color mixer and customizable gauge screens

  • One-touch, easy menu navigation

  • Read and clear diagnostic trouble codes

  • Comprehensive data logging and performance tests

  • Correct the speedometer and adjust speed and rev limiters

  • Light sensitivity meter to activate user-adjusted day/night modes

  • Internet updateable

  • 1-year warranty

Edge CTS3 Evolution Programmer

Smarter, faster, and more intuitive than any tuner to date, the Edge CTS3 Evolution programmer is the ultimate in tuning and programming, boosting performance at the press of a button. This innovative tuner features a large 5-inch capacitive touchscreen display, making it easy to monitor parameters and swap tunes. 

With pre-loaded tunes, the Edge CTS3 Evolution makes adding power a breeze. Installation is as simple as plugging the tuner into your vehicle’s OBDII port with the included cable and mounting it to your vehicle’s windshield using the provided mount. Additionally, this tuner offers DTC monitoring and clearing capabilities and performance meter measurements, allowing you to see how each tune affects real-life performance. 

A 1-year limited warranty backs the Edge CTS3.  

Features: 

  • Full-color, high-definition 5-in. capacitive touchscreen

  • Built-in performance meter measures 0–60, 1/4 mile times, and more

  • Monitor key parameters like trans temp, boost, RPM, and more

  • Settings for mileage, towing, daily driving, performance, and extreme

  • Customizable gauges and backgrounds

  • Read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)

  • Ability to tune multiple vehicles with one device

  • Simple plug-and-play installation 

  • HDMI style plug for power and linking EAS accessories

  • High-speed data logging with export capability

  • Update with WiFi, Mac, or PC

Exhaust Systems

A cold air intake improves the overall quality and quantity of airflow into your truck’s intake, and a programmer harnesses that additional air to create more horsepower and torque, which leaves one other main area of performance improvement—the exhaust system. A less restrictive exhaust system, featuring large-diameter piping and a high-flow muffler, will not only help your engine produce more power but also significantly alter the sound of your vehicle. 

For more information on exhaust systems, check out our overview of cat-back exhaust systems.

MBRP Installer Series Exhaust System

Car exhaust pipe with a curved metal pipe and muffler against a white background.

The MBRP Installer Series Exhaust System is a great entry point into the world of performance parts. Built from heavy-duty aluminized steel, this system is designed to handle the elements while delivering noticeable gains in horsepower and torque. 

Thanks to its mandrel-bent tubing, airflow is smoother and more efficient, translating to dyno-proven performance gains. The moderate exhaust tone gives your ride a deeper, more aggressive sound without excessive droning, making it perfect for daily driving or weekend towing. Corrosion-resistant T-304 stainless steel tips add a clean, finished look, while the simple bolt-on installation allows for an upgrade to your setup without the need for cutting or welding. 

Backed by a 3-year limited warranty, this system offers a solid mix of value, sound, and performance.

Features: 

  • Heavy-duty aluminized steel construction

  • Mandrel-bent tubing

  • Dyno-proven performance gains

  • Moderate exhaust tone

  • Corrosion-resistant T304 stainless steel exhaust tips

  • Simple bolt-on installation

  • Limited 3-year warranty

Borla S-Type Exhaust System

A stainless steel car exhaust system with pipes and muffler parts.

The Borla S-Type exhaust system stands out among premium performance parts, offering the perfect blend of sound, style, and durability. Constructed from corrosion-resistant T-304 stainless steel, it’s built to handle harsh conditions and long-term use. 

The S-Type mufflers are tuned for that signature Borla growl—a deep, performance-inspired, aggressive note without excessive drone. Mandrel-bent tubing ensures smooth exhaust flow, helping unlock dyno-tested gains in horsepower and torque. You can customize the look with your choice of polished or black-chrome exhaust tips, both designed to turn heads. 

Proudly made in the USA and backed by a one-million-mile warranty, the Borla S-Type is a trusted option for enthusiasts seeking to enhance their ride with proven performance and an iconic sound.

Features: 

  • Corrosion-resistant T-304 stainless steel construction

  • Provides a throaty, performance-inspired exhaust note

  • S-Type mufflers deliver the ideal sound and noise level

  • Mandrel-bent tubing for smooth, uninterrupted exhaust flow

  • Dyno-tested performance gains

  • Available with polished or black-chrome exhaust tips

  • Made in the USA

  • One-million-mile warranty

Flowmaster FlowFX Exhaust System

Exhaust pipe with dual black mufflers and chrome piping.

Flowmaster is a trusted name in the exhaust system industry, specializing in high-quality, performance-oriented systems with that iconic Flowmaster sound. 

Built from durable stainless steel and featuring mandrel-bent tubing, this system maximizes exhaust flow for enhanced performance. It’s been dyno-tested to deliver real gains in horsepower and torque, while the included FlowFX muffler gives your vehicle a deep, smooth tone that’s noticeable without being overwhelming. 

Installation is hassle-free, thanks to a design that uses your vehicle’s factory hanger locations—no cutting or custom work is required. With a limited lifetime warranty backing it up, the FlowFX system offers a reliable and well-rounded upgrade for drivers looking to enhance sound and performance with a straightforward bolt-on setup.

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

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