When it comes to the Mazdaspeed 6 one of the first mod you want to do is to buy performance air intake systems. Your car will love it as much as you will for sure. There are a lot of parts related to the air intake system and sometimes all the terms can be misleading.
A lot of questions are asked about intake systems like which one is better, which sounds the best, which makes more power and which is easier to install. Of course, it can vary depending on if your car is stock or fully modified. Placed in the front fender, they are designed to replace your factory intake but with better air flow and performance.
But what does that do? They are made to suck in cool air, it’s important because cool air is denser than warm air, which means cool air molecules are closer together, so more air can fit into a given amount of space. An engine creates power by mixing and compressing air and fuel. The more air you can fit into a cylinder at one time, the bigger explosion you can create which in turn creates more horsepower.
SRI, CAI, TIP: What are these stands for?
SRI: Short Ram Intake are the most popular type of intakes on the market because they are a direct replacement of the OEM intake but with a smoother pipe and an open air filter. It sits in the engine bay where the air temps are warmer due to the heat the engine produces. Due to this, they are inexpensive and easy to install. Some people also like the looks of the kit since the air filters are in the engine bay.
CAI: Cold Air Intake are designed to draw as much cold air as possible, giving them their name. They are usually placed in the fender of the car under the side of the engine. It can also be called a cool air intake because the design is such that it places the air filter as far away from the heat of the engine as possible. Due to the intake having more piping, it is usually more expensive and difficult to install besides giving more horsepower and torque than the SRI.
TIP: Turbo Inlet Pipe (or Turbo Inlet Hose) are the direct replacement of the OEM turbo inlet. Often made of silicone or aluminum they are designed with a bigger diameter for better air flow and increases reliability than the OEM. That in itself makes a huge difference on how much nicer the car drive, respond and sound.
*Note that if you want to purchase the SRI/ TIP combination from the same manufacturer you will be better to look for the Stage II SRI that always include the TIP. If the manufacturer gave you the option, it will be less expensive that buying the two separately.
**If you want to buy SRI bigger than 2.5″ it will not be a perfect replacement of your OEM. It will be bigger and it will be harder to fit beside the battery.
Short Ram Intake
ATP 3″ | Silicone | Part Number: ATP-MS6-012 
High flow inlet extension including 3″ billet aluminum MAF housing, 3″ inlet elbow, and 3″ open element filter. Bolts onto their 3″ inlet pipe kit to complete a true high flow 3″ intake tract. Deletes the restrictive factory airbox and clears the area inside the driver side fender and headlight area to run FMIC pipes in and out. You can choose between Red, Blue or Black for the silicone coupler.
Autoexe | Carbon | Part Number: MBS959 
It is structured to take in more fresh air as the car runs more distance with the air intake directed forward the car. Fresh air is not only efficiently taken in through the dedicated efficient filter, but also the insulation efficiency and high-grade carbon are used in the main body. Therefore, it produces the effect close to an incensement of engine displacement. The sound of air taken in that you can hear even inside the car is comfortable, and your feelings of driving also run high.
COBB SF Intake | Silicone | Part Number: 781500 
The COBB SF Intake removes a pre-turbo restriction in the stock intake system. It utilizes several unique features in an effort to maintain optimal flow for performance while minimizing turbulence that can cause engine management problems. The intake utilizes a one piece design constructed from a high temperature plastic composite, saving weight and reducing heat transfer. Enjoy the increased snarl from your engine and hear the turbo spool more clearly. Turbocharger induction noise and bypass valve venting sound is much more audible using this intake system. Easy to install this kit comes in Black or Blue. The filter is an oiled style.
Corksport Power Series | Silicone | Part Number: Ate-6-115 
The CorkSport Power Series Short Ram Intake replaces your factory airbox with an open intake system allowing more air into the intake chamber. It includes a precision machined MAF housing made from one piece of billet aluminum with included air straightener, durable dry flow air filter and custom reinforced silicone connector. You can choose between Red, Blue or Black for the filter and between polished or black for the clamps.
Stage II also available with Part Number: Ate-6-118-100 
Corksport 3″ Power Series | Aluminum | Part Number: Axl-6-276 
The Power Series 3″ Intake System is fabricated with a high polished 3″ turbo inlet pipe and a true 3″ inside diameter MAF housing. The velocity stack design smooths air flow for maximum performance. If you plan on upgrading or have already upgraded your turbo this upgrade is a must to keep your MAF sensor functioning within its calibrated range. Up to a 35% increase in air flow over the OEM MAF housing. You can choose between Red, Blue or Black for the filter and between polished or black for the clamps. The filter is a Dry Air Flow.
CP-E XcelXL™ | Silicone | Part Number: MZXR00001B 
It is offered as a simple MAF housing that can either be used as a short ram intake, that is a direct fit or it can be integrated by the end-user into a custom intake system for whatever setup you need. This intake includes 2 types of filter Dry Air Flow or Oiled one. The XcelXL™ comes as a kit with a 3.25in MAF housing designed to fit the stock MAF sensor, a cp-e™ 3.5in filter with a built in velocity stack for optimal airflow, and a breather filter for the crank case ventilation, as well as all the necessary hardware for a direct.
HTP Stage II 3″ | Aluminum | Part Number: MZS300PC-30 
Our larger intakes are designed to be used along with the smaller battery tray to allow for proper fitment within your engine bay. With this 3.0″ intake, the ECU does NOT need to be relocated, however the lower ECU cover will need to be removed. This full one-piece intake pipe includes an integrated MAF with honeycomb air straightener for the most accurate airflow reading.
Stage II 3.5″ also available with Part Number: MZS300PC-35
Stage II 3.5″ also available with Part Number: MZS300PC-40
JBR Power Path | Silicone | Part Number: MS-PPI-S1 
The JBR SRI is a complete replacement for the restrictive factory intake hose and air filter box. Simple to install and no ECU tuning is required. The lighter housing significantly reduces heat soak, sheds heat quicker lowering intake temperatures and creates more power. Each MAF housing is beautifully anodized for a smooth, long lasting finish resistant to corrosion, even when subjected to the harshest environmental conditions. 5 ply polyester and wire reinforced silicone intake hose eliminates the turbulence caused by the factory hose delivering smooth, oxygen rich air directly into your turbo. Every Power Path Short Ram Intake includes a Dry-Flow air filter.
Stage II also available with Part Number: MS-PPI-S2
JBR Wide Path Full 3″| Silicone | Part Number: MS3/6-WP-30-SIL 
The JBR TRU-3.0 Wide Path Full Intake System is the only True 3” intake system that extends from the MAF housing all the way to the transition at the turbo. The thick, 5-ply, wire reinforced, high temperature silicone construction is far superior at insulating the intake air from extreme engine temperatures. This translates into lower boost air temperatures and more horsepower that no other aluminum intake can accomplish. The filter is a Dry Air Flow,
3.5″ also available with Part Number: MS3/6-WP-35-SIL
JBR Wide Path Full 3″| Aluminum | Part Number: MS3/6-WP-30-AL 
The JBR TRU-3.0 Wide Path Full Aluminum Intake System features a full 3” Inside Diameter Billet Aluminum MAF housing with an OEM like air straightener. It also features the ability to change the turbo side coupler to accommodate every size turbo inlet ranging from the stock turbo all the way up to a 4” inlet. So no matter what stage you are with your build, JBR has the intake to fit your needs. Don’t forget the sound that only a full aluminum intake makes when the turbo spools up. You can choose from different color like Red, Blue or Black. The filter is a Dry Air Flow.
3.5″ also available with Part Number: MS3/6-WP-35-AL
Kozmic | Silicone | Part Number: K27-MS-MBI 
The kit is offered in different versions to suit the needs of your setup, including Inlet pipe size options (2.5” (Stock) or 3”). They also offer the Intake Pipe in brushed aluminum finish or anodized black finish for a stealthy look. The 3.5” Big MAF Housing, utilizing a 3.25” Internal Dimension, for a smooth transitional MAF curve. CNC MAF Flange with Stainless Steel MAF Screws, TIG Welded and a breather filter to ventilate the crankcase. The filter is an oiled style.
SURE Aeros ID300 | Silicone | Part Number: SURE0123 
The Aeros ID300™ is an intake system with a 3.00″ inside diameter MAF housing. It will mate up to the factory turbo inlet or another aftermarket inlet. The new larger MAF housing allows for more air travel and allows for more power on your Mazdaspeed with the correct tune. Proper design is crucial for accurate air metering and avoiding the occurrence of a CEL (check engine light). The core filtration of the intake system is a reusable 19 millimeter dry filter capable of trapping particles as small as 40 microns. The durable cotton/polyester fabric can be cleaned and reused, making the days of frequently replacing filters, history. The entire MAF housing assembly is put through the anodizing process. Anodizing ensures a durable, smooth finish that stands up against corrosion no matter what the driving conditions. The silicone hose is constructed from high performance wire reinforced silicone. Internally wrapping the hose with wire reinforces it against the possibility of expanding and collapsing created in a forced induction system. The silicone hose acts as a heat barrier between metered air and engine bay heat; the cooler, the better. The Aeros™ silicone hoses are available in Stealth Black, Designer White, SURE Blue, & Ignition Red.
Stage II 2″ also available with Part Number: SURE0125
Stage II 3″ also available with Part Number: SURE0136
Stage II 4″ also available with Part Number: SURE0128
Stage II 3.25″ intake 4″ turbo also available with Part Number: SURE0129
SURE Aeros SI | Silicone | Part Number: SURE0113 
It replaces the entire factory air box without causing any check engine lights. The new larger MAF housing allows for more air travel and allows for more power on your Mazdaspeed with the correct tune. Proper design is crucial for accurate air metering and avoiding the occurrence of a CEL (check engine light). The core filtration of the intake system is a reusable 19 millimeter dry filter capable of trapping particles as small as 40 microns. The durable cotton/polyester fabric can be cleaned and reused, making the days of frequently replacing filters, history. The entire MAF housing assembly is put through the anodizing process. Anodizing ensures a durable, smooth finish that stands up against corrosion no matter what the driving conditions. The silicone hose is constructed from high performance wire reinforced silicone. Internally wrapping the hose with wire reinforces it against the possibility of expanding and collapsing created in a forced induction system. The silicone hose acts as a heat barrier between metered air and engine bay heat; the cooler, the better. The Aeros™ silicone hose is available in Stealth Black, Designer White, SURE Blue, & Ignition Red.
Stage II 2″ also available with Part Number: SURE0112
Stage II 3″ also available with Part Number: SURE0135
Stage II 4″ also available with Part Number: SURE0116
Cold Air Intake
AEM | Aluminum | Part Number: 21-641 
The AEM Cold Air Intake features aluminum inlet pipe for durability and light weight. Each AEM Cold Air Intake system’s length and diameter have been tuned and tested to work with an engine’s harmonics (resonance frequencies) to help carry more air to the inlet valves across the RPM range. Each AEM Cold Air Intake features one of AEM’s revolutionary DRYFLOW filters. Their unique non-woven polyester element is independently tested to filter out 98.6% of airborne fine dust in initial efficiency, with an industry leading cumulative efficiency of 99.4% (cumulative efficiency is the average for the test cycle). The DRYFLOW also filters down to ONE MICRON of particulate. It comes in a variety of colors: red, blue, silver, or polished. For the silver color option, the AEM Cold Air Intake features a high-gloss titanium-like powder coating that reduces heat soak and enhances its look.
*Note the Mazdaspeed CAI is made in collaboration with AEM you can buy it with Part Number: SUS8MH32
CP-E Xcel™ | Aluminum | Part Number: MZXL00003 
The Xcel MazdaSPEED6 intake is the first intake only for any Mazda6 that will not set a check engine light (CEL). CP-E spent a great deal of time engineering and figuring out a way to mass produce an intake that would not set a CEL. CP-E determined that a similar design to the 6i and 6s would be used. Improvements were made to the heatshield that doubles as an ABS harness holder. This intake includes 2 types of filter Dry Air Flow or Oiled one and you can choose from either Black or Polished.
CP-E XcelNANO™ | Aluminum | Part Number: MZXN00003 
If you think putting the air filter in the fender isn’t such a great idea check out the XcelNANO™. It’s got all of the unique features that the Xcel™ cold air kit offers, but at a lower price. It uses the same precision CNC machined mass air meter housing as the Xcel™ cold air intake and features a full 3” mandrel bent aluminum elbow. The elbow also extends the filter so that it sits over the fender opening, which helps grab some fresh air. It was also designed using state of the art digitizing equipment which ensures near perfect fitment. The customer may also choose between an oiled or dry air filter.
DC Sports | Aluminum | Part Number: CAI4101 
DC Sports Air Intake Systems provide the best of both worlds in heat protection and improved breathability. Every kit includes an air filter that requires no oil, therefore no chance in contaminating the air mass air flow sensor which can result in loss of power and higher fuel consumption. This CAI is made of one piece aluminum alloy construction polished to show quality finish and corrosion resistant. Filter requires no oil for filtration as well as being washable and reusable. The Dry Air Flow also filters down to One Micron of particulate.
Fujita | Aluminum | Part Number: CA-2505 
Depending on the complexity of the plenum route, the Fujita Cold Air Intake may come as a 1 piece or 2 piece intake system. Different diameters, filters, and bends are all key factors of the R&D process of each Cold Air Intake. The in-house Dynojet is the final judge of which intake configuration will make it to production. Air/Fuel ratios are also an important factor in testing the Cold Air Intake, ensuring that safe and near factory levels are maintained in order to not trip any electronic sensors on the vehicle.
Injen | Aluminum | Part Number: SP6071 
The RD series is a cold air intake system for the enthusiast craving mid-range power. The intake tube is strategically placed behind the front bumper to acquire colder, denser air. Although most of the RD series is a one-piece design, several are two-piece designs due to the mass air flow meters. You can choose from polished or Black.
Turbo Inlet Pipe
ATP | Aluminum | Part Number: ATP-MS6-011 
ATP 3″ inlet replacement piece which was built to handle the flow requirements of the big Garrett turbo upgrade, is built out of 3″ stainless material, formed with smooth transitions and then TIG welded to achieve a more desirable flow path and accommodates much more volume. The unit can also be ordered with the proper transition coupler to fit the stock turbo and unleash more power from it. You can choose from black, red, or blue silicone connectors and from 2″ or 4″ turbo flange.
Cobb | Silicone | Part Number: 771001 
Cobbs turbo inlet hose is a perfect solution for connecting the intake system to the turbo and providing a smooth, free flowing path for the intake air to travel through and reach the turbo. This sleek, high temperature silicone hose replaces the clunky plastic OEM piece. The interior features a uniform lining and incorporates a true taper design, eliminating any sudden neck-down in diameter found on lesser designs. The end result is a smooth, unrestricted path from the intake to the turbo inlet, adding power and improving engine responsiveness.
Corksport | Aluminum | Part Number: Gen-6-463-10 
Constructed from 60mm mandrel bent aluminum with smooth sweeping curves for optimal flow. Designed with a downstream recirculation valve fitting to prevent turbulence backwash around MAF sensor and avoid unnecessary check engine lights and stumbling. Optional crank case breather hose available for turbo vehicles affected by Mazda TSB that received a factory fix for turbo smoking due to insufficient crank case ventilation. Offered in polished aluminum or powder coated black with blue, red or black silicone to enhance the look of your engine bay.
CP-E Nviscid™ | Silicone | Part Number: MZNV00001B 
The Nviscid™ Turbo Inlet Pipe now comes standard with all hardware necessary to fit stock/2.50” intakes. They have studied the Mazda TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) regarding the common smoking turbo issue. The new Nviscid™ design now implements a similar design to the Mazda TSB turbo inlet pipe, moving your PCV closer to the turbo to draw more vacuum. The pipes also come with slick details like steel wire re-enforcement to prevent collapsing under vacuum, it features all stock brackets and mounting tabs and also utilizes steel inserts for cold air intake and bypass valve recirculation attachments.
Nviscid™ 4″ also available with Part Number: MZNV00002B
HTP 3″ | Aluminum | Part Number: MZS3001PC3 
HTP’s inlets are manufactured out of 3.0″ T-6061 aluminum mandrel bent piping for a smooth transition into the turbo. This inlet is professionally tig welded, features bead-rolled ends, and comes with all the necessary hardware for a direct replacement. These inlets are a great addition for those running a bigger turbo or seeking a full 3″ intake system. Each inlet comes with a 3/8″ NPT bung welded in and includes both a plug and a 45 degree brass fitting to vent off the valve cover.
JBR | Silicone | Part Number: MS-PPI-TIP 
The JBR DISI Turbo Inlet Hose is constructed out of five layers of high performance silicone and four layers of reinforcement, not three like the others brand. In addition to the reinforcement, the core of the silicone has a wire skeleton wrapped throughout to prevent collapsing under vacuum. The high temperature silicone is far superior at insulating the intake air from extreme engine temperatures than aluminum is. Cooler intake air is denser and therefore capable of making more power. The joiners used to connect the intake and recirculation hoses are made of thick walled 6061 aluminum, beaded then brushed to ensure a secure and leak free connection.
SURE BigMouth™ 2″ | Silicone | Part Number: SURE0111 
The BigMouth™ SURE’s high quality silicone design, but it is also a 3” system beginning at the Aeros MAF housing. This allows for a more improved air flow from the MAF housing allowing your OEM turbo to suck in more air. The more the air the turbo has to take in, the more power your car will be putting out. It is constructed with high performance silicone that is reinforced with 3 layers of nylon and a core wrapped in steel wire. The silicone protects the intake air from engine bay heat. The silicone hoses are available in Stealth Black, Designer White, SURE Blue, & Ignition Red.
BigMouth 3″ also available with Part Number: SURE0134-1
BigMouth 4″ also available with Part Number: SURE0115
BigMouth 4″ For ID325 also available with Part Number: SURE0127
SURE Sidewinder™ 2″ | Silicone | Part Number: SURE0101 
The Sidewinder™ creates a more efficient air flow rate, consistent boost, and a more responsive throttle for your Mazdaspeed driving experience. The connectors for the intake and recirculation ports are made of high quality, heavy wall 6061-T6 anodized aluminum. The anodized aluminum resists corrosion and the heavy wall thickness allows for clamps to be tightened to a degree far exceeding what the stock turbo inlet or other similar products can handle. It is constructed with high performance silicone that is reinforced with 3 layers of nylon and a core wrapped in steel wire. The silicone protects the intake air from engine bay heat. The silicone hoses are available in Stealth Black, Designer White, SURE Blue, & Ignition Red.
The Build of the Mazdaspeed6 