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ARM Motorsports Performance Upgrades: FMIC, Bi-Cooler, Downpipes, Midpipe & Turbo Inlet

9th Jan 2026

ARM Motorsports MK8 GTI / GOLF R FMIC KIT - MK8FMIC

Order Link:

https://x-ph.com/arm-motorsports-mk8-gti-golf-r-fmic-kit-mk8fmic/

The ARM Motorsports MK8 GTI / Golf R Front Mount Intercooler Kit is engineered to significantly reduce intake air temperatures and increase overall power consistency on the Gen 4 EA888 platform. By relocating the intercooler to a true front-mount position ahead of the radiator stack, this system maximizes exposure to ambient airflow for superior heat rejection compared to factory and stock-location intercoolers.

Designed as a complete bolt-on solution, the ARM MK8 FMIC delivers exceptional cooling efficiency without cutting, drilling, or modifying factory components. This makes it one of the most effective and user-friendly intercooler upgrades available for the MK8 platform.

Key Highlights

• Improves cooling efficiency by 84%
• Significantly lowers intake air temperatures (IATs)
• True front-mount intercooler design
• 100% bolt-on installation
• No cutting or drilling required

Why Your MK8 Needs an Intercooler Upgrade

Increasing power through tuning raises boost pressure and turbocharger speed, which directly increases charge-air temperatures. As intake air temperatures rise, the ECU compensates by reducing ignition timing and limiting power output to protect the engine.

Because of this, most tuners require an upgraded intercooler for any tune beyond a basic Stage 1 map. The ideal solution is an intercooler that efficiently controls IATs without unnecessary volume that can negatively affect throttle response. The ARM MK8 FMIC achieves this balance by combining optimal core size with superior placement.

Cooling Performance

Despite its compact size, the ARM MK8 FMIC delivers outstanding real-world results.

• Intake air temperatures remained only 21°F above ambient during 2nd–4th gear pulls
• IATs increased just 7°F from the bottom of 2nd gear to the top of 4th
• OEM intercooler temperatures reached 114°F with a 45°F rise
• 84% reduction in IAT rise compared to stock

Testing was performed on a manual-transmission MK8 Golf R with a Stage 2+ tune running 28 psi.

Intercooler Core & Construction

The ARM MK8 FMIC uses a high-efficiency bar-and-plate core measuring 27.8 x 9.5 x 2.5 inches, resulting in a total core volume of 660 cubic inches. The factory intercooler measures approximately 550 cubic inches, making the ARM FMIC 20% larger while remaining more efficient due to its front-mount placement.

• Bar-and-plate intercooler core
• 27.8 x 9.5 x 2.5 inch dimensions
• 660 cubic inches total volume
• Supports applications up to 700 horsepower

High-flow cast aluminum end tanks feature oval-shaped inlet and outlet ports cast directly into the tanks. This design maximizes airflow while ensuring proper clearance between intercooler piping and the vehicle frame.

The oval center sections of the inlet and outlet tubing retain the same overall cross-sectional area as a 2.5-inch round inlet and outlet, measuring 4.9 square inches.

Intercooler Piping Design

The ARM MK8 FMIC uses 2.5-inch inlet and outlet connections to maintain optimal airflow velocity and fast boost response.

• 2.5-inch inlet and outlet diameter
• Direct connection to factory charge pipes
• Compatible with OEM and most aftermarket charge pipes
• Supports higher boost and tuned applications

Ambient Temperature Sensor Integration

MK8-specific mounting brackets include a dedicated provision for relocating the factory ambient air temperature sensor.

• Maintains correct sensor placement
• Ensures accurate ambient temperature readings
• Preserves proper ECU temperature-based calculations

OEM Intercooler Block-Off Protection

Included silicone block-off caps seal the inlet and outlet of the factory intercooler after installation.

• Prevents dirt and debris entry
• Protects against moisture intrusion
• Keeps unused OEM intercooler clean

Installation Overview

The ARM MK8 FMIC is one of the simplest intercooler upgrades available for the MK8 platform.

• Front bumper removal required
• No crash bar or radiator stack disassembly
• No coolant draining required
• No cutting or drilling
• MK8-specific mounting brackets included
• Estimated install time: 2–3 hours

Optional Bi-Cooler Upgrade

For vehicles running or planning to run an upgraded turbocharger, the ARM MK8 Bi-Cooler Hose Upgrade allows simultaneous use of a stock-location intercooler alongside the ARM FMIC.

• Improves cooling efficiency beyond FMIC alone
• Recommended only for upgraded turbo setups
• May cause slight pressure drop on OEM turbo

What’s Included

• 1x ARM MK8 Front Mount Intercooler
• 1x Driver-side FMIC piping
• 1x Passenger-side FMIC piping
• 2x MK8 FMIC mounting brackets
• 2x FMIC-to-piping silicone couplers
• 2x FMIC-to-ARM charge pipe silicone couplers
• 2x FMIC-to-OEM charge pipe silicone couplers
• 10x constant-tension T-bolt clamps
• 2x FMIC-to-bracket bolts and nuts
• 2x bracket-to-frame bolts and nuts
• 2x OEM intercooler block-off caps

Fitment Guide

Important Fitment Notes

• Does NOT fit vehicles with Adaptive Cruise Control mounted in the lower bumper
• Fits vehicles with Adaptive Cruise Control mounted in the VW emblem

Vehicle Compatibility

Volkswagen Golf VIII GTI
• Body Style: Hatchback
• Engine: 2.0T EA888 Gen 4

Volkswagen Golf VIII R
• Body Style: Hatchback
• Engine: 2.0T EA888 Gen 4

Every ARM Motorsports product is backed by a lifetime warranty covering defects in craftsmanship and fitment. Warranty replacement is automatically issued at the time of purchase.

ARM Motorsports MK8 GTI/GOLF R Bi-COOLER UPGRADE - MK8HU

Order Link:

https://x-ph.com/arm-motorsports-mk8-gti-golf-r-bi-cooler-upgrade-mk8hu/

The ARM Motorsports MK8 Bi-Cooler Upgrade is engineered to allow simultaneous use of the ARM MK8 Front Mount Intercooler and the factory intercooler, or any upgraded OEM-location intercooler that retains factory charge-pipe routing. This configuration creates a true bi-cooler system, significantly increasing total charge-air cooling capacity while preserving OEM-style fitment and drivability.

Designed as the ultimate cooling solution for the MK8 platform, the ARM MK8 Bi-Cooler Upgrade improves thermal efficiency under sustained boost, aggressive driving, repeated pulls, and track use. By utilizing a dual-intercooler strategy, intake air temperatures are reduced, cooling consistency is improved, and heat soak is minimized during high-load operation.

Key Highlights

• Allows utilization of both ARM MK8 FMIC and OEM intercooler
• Compatible with upgraded OEM-location intercoolers using factory routing
• Improved cooling capacity and thermal stability
• Reduced intake air temperatures (IATs)
• 6-layer reinforced silicone construction
• Includes constant-tension T-bolt clamps

Dual Intercooler Cooling Strategy

By combining the ARM MK8 FMIC with the factory intercooler, the bi-cooler setup increases total heat exchanger surface area without sacrificing airflow efficiency. This design allows charge air to be cooled progressively, resulting in lower and more stable intake air temperatures during extended high-boost operation.

Testing has shown that when paired with the ARM MK8 FMIC, the bi-cooler configuration maintains intake air temperatures close to ambient even under demanding driving conditions.

Hose Construction & Pressure Capacity

The ARM MK8 Bi-Cooler Piping Upgrade is manufactured from premium 6-layer silicone reinforced with internal steel wire for maximum strength and durability.

• Rated for boost pressures exceeding 50 psi
• Resistant to heat, pressure, and deformation
• Maintains structural integrity under extreme conditions

To ensure a secure, leak-free seal, the system includes constant-tension T-bolt clamps that maintain consistent clamping force throughout heat cycles and high-boost operation.

Optimized Diameter & Flow Characteristics

Throughout the entire system, the bi-cooler piping maintains a consistent 2.5-inch inner diameter.

• Maximizes airflow volume
• Preserves charge-air velocity
• Supports strong throttle response
• Ensures efficient turbocharger operation

This sizing balances airflow demand with response, making it ideal for both street-driven and high-performance MK8 builds.

What’s Included

• 2x ARM MK8 bi-cooler silicone hoses
• 6x constant-tension T-bolt clamps

Fitment Guide

Compatibility Notes

• Designed specifically for use with the ARM MK8 Front Mount Intercooler
• Requires OEM-style charge-pipe routing

Vehicle Compatibility

Volkswagen Golf VIII GTI
• Body Style: Hatchback
• Engine: 2.0T EA888 Gen 4

Volkswagen Golf VIII R
• Body Style: Hatchback
• Engine: 2.0T EA888 Gen 4

Warranty

Every ARM Motorsports product is backed by a lifetime warranty covering defects in craftsmanship and fitment. Warranty coverage is automatically issued at the time of purchase and entitles the owner to a replacement unit if necessary.

ARM Motorsports AMG GT 3.5" CATTED DOWNPIPES - C190 GT/GTS/GTC/GTR M178 C190DPC

Order Link:

https://x-ph.com/arm-motorsports-amg-gt-3-5-catted-downpipes-c190-gt-gts-gtc-gtr-m178-c190dpc/

ARM Motorsports AMG GT C190 3.5" Downpipes – Catted Performance Upgrade

Unlock the full potential of your Mercedes-AMG GT, GTS, GTC, GTR, or GTR Pro (C190) with the ARM Motorsports 3.5" Downpipes. Designed to replace the restrictive factory AMG GT downpipes, these catted downpipes improve turbo efficiency, throttle response, and overall power delivery while maintaining OEM-level fitment and drivability.

The stock M178 twin-turbo V8 downpipes are engineered for emissions control and noise reduction, creating backpressure as power levels increase. The ARM C190 3.5" Downpipes remove these restrictions, allowing your AMG GT to breathe more efficiently, spool faster, and produce higher horsepower and torque when paired with tuning. The design also lowers under-hood temperatures and provides a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note.

Key Highlights

Increased Power and Torque
Faster Turbo Spool
Aggressive Exhaust Note
Enhanced Throttle Response
Lower Under-Hood Temperatures
100% Bolt-On Installation

Construction and Engineering

The downpipes are made from SS304 stainless steel for strength, durability, and long-lasting weld integrity. Upper sections feature a 3.5" V-band flange that connects directly to OEM turbos or compatible upgraded turbos. Dual 200-cell race catalysts reduce emissions while delivering an aggressive exhaust note. Upper 3" sections allow clearance through the chassis tunnels and transition to 3.5" lower sections to improve exhaust tone.

A cross-brace links both downpipes to reduce movement, enhance stability, and ensure long-term durability. Pre- and post-catalyst O2 sensor bungs maintain compatibility with factory sensors. CNC-machined ball-and-socket connections allow angular movement and secure sealing. The lower sections connect to OEM-style midpipes for seamless integration with factory or aftermarket exhaust systems.

Installation Kit Includes

2x ARM AMG GT 3.5" Catted Downpipe Upper Sections
2x ARM AMG GT 3.5" Downpipe Lower Sections
1x ARM Ball-and-Socket Adapter
1x ARM Slip-Fit Adapter
2x Ball-and-Socket Clamps
2x 3.5" Slip-Fit Clamps
4x Bolts and Nuts

Vehicle Fitment

Make: Mercedes-Benz
Chassis: C190
Models: AMG GT, AMG GTS, AMG GTC, AMG GTR, AMG GTR Pro
Engine: M178

Warranty

ARM Motorsports products come with a Lifetime Warranty covering defects in craftsmanship or fitment. Replacement units are issued automatically in the rare event of a defect.

ARM Motorsports BMW 335i 3.5" RESONATED MIDPIPE N54MID

Order Link:

https://x-ph.com/arm-motorsports-bmw-335i-3-5-resonated-midpipe-n54mid/

BMW 335i 3.5" Resonated Midpipe (ARM Motorsports)

The ARM Motorsports BMW 335i 3.5" Resonated Midpipe is a performance-focused exhaust upgrade engineered to significantly improve exhaust flow, throttle response, and sound quality on N54 and N55-powered BMW 335i models. This system replaces the restrictive factory dual midpipe assembly with a high-flow, single 3.5" design, delivering measurable performance gains while maintaining OEM-level drivability and fitment.

From the factory, the BMW 335i utilizes a dual midpipe configuration that incorporates secondary catalytic converters. While effective for noise suppression and emissions compliance, this design introduces unnecessary restriction as power levels increase, limiting exhaust efficiency and muting the true character of the engine. The ARM 3.5" Resonated Midpipe eliminates these bottlenecks by merging exhaust flow into a single, smooth-transition 3.5" midpipe, reducing backpressure and allowing the turbocharged engine to breathe more freely.

Designed to bolt directly to the factory axle-back exhaust, the ARM midpipe fully retains OEM exhaust valve functionality. This means quiet, refined operation during normal driving and cruising, while delivering a deeper, more aggressive exhaust note under throttle. OEM comfort is preserved, but performance and sound are noticeably enhanced.

To ensure optimal sound quality, ARM integrates a carefully engineered resonator into the single midpipe section. The resonator is precisely sized and positioned to minimize rasp and harsh, high-frequency tones commonly associated with straight-through exhaust designs—especially on N54 and N55 platforms. The result is a smooth, controlled, and deep exhaust tone that remains aggressive without excessive drone.

Construction & Fitment

The ARM 335i 3.5" Resonated Midpipe begins with a dual 2-bolt flange inlet, allowing it to bolt directly to any downpipes designed to mate to the OEM 335i midpipe configuration. This includes factory downpipes as well as most aftermarket options that retain the OEM-style 2-bolt outlets.

From the inlet, the system transitions seamlessly into the 3.5" single midpipe section, where the resonator enhances tone while maintaining unrestricted flow. Toward the rear, the midpipe splits back into a dual configuration to connect perfectly with the OEM axle-back exhaust. This design ensures proper exhaust flow distribution, correct operation of the factory exhaust valves, and OEM-level alignment.

To accommodate the larger 3.5" piping while retaining the factory chassis brace, the kit includes precision-machined aluminum chassis brace spacers. These spacers provide the necessary clearance for the midpipe to pass through without contact, vibration, or modification. Installation remains clean and fully reversible, with no cutting or permanent changes required.

Vehicle Compatibility

  • BMW E90 335i – N54 3.0L
  • BMW E90 335i – N55 3.0L
  • BMW E92 335i – N54 3.0L
  • BMW E92 335i – N55 3.0L
  • BMW E92 335is – N54 3.0L

ARM Motorsports MK8 GOLF R TURBO INLET - MK8RINL

Order Link:

https://x-ph.com/arm-motorsports-mk8-golf-r-turbo-inlet-mk8rinl/

The ARM Motorsports MK8 Golf R Turbo Inlet is engineered to eliminate one of the most restrictive points in the factory intake system. The OEM MK8 Golf R turbo inlet necks down to a narrow 60mm internal diameter at the turbocharger, creating a significant airflow bottleneck that limits turbo efficiency and throttle response.

The ARM MK8 Golf R Turbo Inlet increases the internal diameter to a full 72mm, representing a 20% increase over the factory design. This larger internal diameter allows the turbocharger to breathe more freely, resulting in improved airflow, faster turbo response, and enhanced overall performance.

Construction

The ARM MK8 Golf R Turbo Inlet is fully constructed from high-quality T6061 aluminum to ensure maximum durability, heat resistance, and long-term reliability. Unlike the factory plastic turbo inlet, which can deform or crack over time due to repeated heat cycles and engine bay temperatures, the ARM aluminum inlet maintains its shape and performance under demanding conditions.

A precision-machined turbocharger flange ensures perfect fitment, while the included high-temperature O-ring provides a secure, leak-free seal at the compressor housing.

Installation

Installation of the ARM MK8 Golf R Turbo Inlet is straightforward and can be completed in approximately 30 minutes. Serving as the critical connection between the intake tube and the turbocharger, this inlet is designed to work seamlessly with the ARM MK8 Golf R Intake, the OEM intake system, and any aftermarket intake that utilizes the factory MK8 Golf R turbo inlet location.

Once installed, drivers can expect improved airflow, sharper throttle response, and a more pronounced turbo sound.

In the Box

• ARM MK8 Turbo Inlet
• High-Temperature O-Ring

Fitment Guide

Make: Audi
Model: 8Y S3
Submodel: Quattro
Engine: 2.0T

Make: Volkswagen
Model: MK8 Golf R
Drivetrain: AWD
Engine: 2.0T

Every ARM Motorsports product is backed by a lifetime warranty that is automatically issued at the time of purchase. This warranty protects against defects in craftsmanship or fitment and entitles the customer to a replacement unit if necessary.