The BMW S68 twin-turbocharged V8 powers a growing range of BMW M and high-performance vehicles, from the latest G90 M5 and G99 M5 Touring to the F95 X5 M, F96 X6 M, and S68-powered G05, G06, G07, and G09 models. With a substantial amount of performance potential built into the platform, exhaust-flow improvements are a popular area for owners looking to further develop their vehicles.

For BMW owners shopping for S68 performance upgrades through Extreme Power House (XPH), the MAD BMW S68 Primary Catted Downpipes (MAD-162) offer a high-flow alternative to the factory primary downpipes while retaining catalytic converters.

Originally developed for the BMW X5 M and X6 M platforms, the MAD-162 combines a performance-oriented catted design with 2.0mm-wall 304 stainless-steel construction, TIG-welded and back-purged fabrication, and OEM-style brackets and flanges. The result is a direct-fit downpipe solution designed to improve exhaust flow, promote sharper turbocharger response, and give the S68 a deeper, more aggressive exhaust character.

Improving Exhaust Flow on the BMW S68

The S68 is a twin-turbocharged V8 designed around high levels of power and torque, and efficient exhaust flow plays an important role in turbocharger operation.

The factory primary downpipes are designed to meet BMW's production requirements for emissions control, noise, durability, and overall drivability. For modified vehicles, however, reducing exhaust restriction can provide additional performance potential.

The MAD-162 high-flow primary catted downpipes are designed to provide a less restrictive exhaust path while retaining catalytic converters.

By improving the efficiency of exhaust gas flow from the turbochargers, the downpipes can help promote:

• Improved exhaust flow.
• Faster turbocharger spool characteristics.
• Sharper throttle response.
• Improved engine responsiveness.
• Stronger midrange performance potential.
• A more aggressive exhaust character.

The actual result will depend on the individual vehicle and its complete configuration. ECU calibration, exhaust components, fuel, supporting modifications, and vehicle condition can all influence the final performance characteristics.

High-Flow Catted Design

The key feature of the MAD-162 is its high-flow catted configuration.

For some BMW enthusiasts, a completely catless downpipe is the preferred route for maximum exhaust-flow changes. However, removing the catalytic converters also produces a different exhaust character and can substantially increase exhaust odor while creating additional emissions-related considerations.

The MAD-162 takes a different approach by retaining catalytic converters while optimizing the primary downpipe design for improved exhaust flow.

This allows S68 owners to pursue a more performance-focused exhaust setup without choosing a completely catless configuration.

The catalytic converters can also provide improved exhaust odor control compared with catless downpipes. However, the presence of catalytic converters does not mean that the product is automatically emissions-legal, street-legal, or CARB-compliant.

Always check the applicable regulations for your vehicle and location before purchasing or installing aftermarket downpipes.

Turbocharger Response and Throttle Characteristics

On a turbocharged engine, the exhaust system directly influences how efficiently exhaust gases can leave the engine and drive the turbochargers.

The MAD-162 is designed to reduce restriction in the primary exhaust path, helping the S68's turbochargers respond more efficiently.

For the driver, this can contribute to a more responsive feel under acceleration, particularly when the downpipes are used as part of a broader performance setup.

Potential benefits include a sharper response to throttle inputs and improved turbocharger spool characteristics.

It is important to note that these are not independent horsepower guarantees. The effect of a downpipe upgrade varies according to the vehicle's tune, exhaust configuration, supporting modifications, and operating conditions.

A Deeper, More Aggressive S68 Exhaust Note

Changing the primary downpipes can also alter the character of the S68's exhaust system.

The MAD S68 Primary Catted Downpipes are designed to provide a deeper and more aggressive exhaust tone compared with the factory configuration.

Because the MAD-162 retains catalytic converters, the resulting sound profile can also be more refined than a completely catless setup.

The final sound will depend heavily on the rest of the exhaust system. An S68 retaining the factory midpipe and rear exhaust will naturally sound different from one equipped with aftermarket midpipes, resonators, or a complete aftermarket exhaust system.

For XPH customers building a complete S68 exhaust setup, the MAD-162 can therefore serve as one component within a larger combination of exhaust upgrades.

304 Stainless Steel Construction

Primary downpipes operate in one of the most demanding areas of a turbocharged engine.

They experience high exhaust temperatures, repeated thermal cycles, vibration, and exposure to corrosive conditions. Material selection and fabrication quality are therefore particularly important.

MAD constructs the MAD-162 using heavy-duty 2.0mm-wall 304 stainless steel.

The 304 stainless-steel construction provides strength and corrosion resistance while offering the durability required for a component operating in close proximity to the S68's turbochargers.

The 2.0mm wall thickness also provides a substantial construction platform for a high-temperature performance exhaust component.

TIG-Welded and Back-Purged Fabrication

The MAD-162 features TIG-welded construction with back-purging.

TIG welding provides precise control over the weld area, while back-purging helps protect the internal side of stainless-steel welds during fabrication.

This is particularly relevant for exhaust components because maintaining clean internal weld areas helps avoid unnecessary disruption to the exhaust path.

Combined with the 304 stainless construction, the TIG-welded and back-purged fabrication gives the MAD-162 the durability and finish expected from a purpose-built performance downpipe.

OEM-Style Brackets and Flanges

The MAD S68 primary downpipes use OEM-style brackets and flanges to provide a direct bolt-on installation approach for compatible vehicles.

The design is intended to utilize the appropriate factory mounting and connection points without requiring cutting, drilling, or permanent vehicle modification.

This makes the MAD-162 suitable for owners who want to replace the factory primary downpipes while maintaining a purpose-built fitment for their S68 vehicle.

Because BMW uses different configurations across model years and markets, customers should still verify the exact vehicle and flange configuration before ordering.

MAD-162 Fitment for the BMW M5

The latest-generation M5 expands the application of the S68 into BMW's newest high-performance sedan and Touring models.

The MAD-162 is designed for:

2025+ BMW M5 G90 — S68

The downpipes are also designed for:

2025+ BMW M5 Touring G99 — S68

For these applications, the MAD-162 provides an aftermarket catted primary downpipe option for owners looking to modify the exhaust side of the S68.

As with any aftermarket downpipe installation, the final result will depend on the vehicle's complete exhaust system and calibration.

BMW X5 M and X6 M Applications

The BMW X5 M and X6 M were among the original applications around which the MAD S68 downpipes were developed.

The relevant LCI applications include:

• 2022–2025 BMW X5 M F95 LCI — S68 engine, including 2024+ USA applications.
• 2022–2025 BMW X6 M F96 LCI — S68 engine, including 2024+ USA applications.

These vehicles combine the S68 V8 with BMW's high-performance SUV platform, making exhaust-flow upgrades particularly relevant for owners developing more aggressive street or performance-oriented builds.

BMW G05, G06, G07 and G09 S68 Applications

The S68 is also used beyond BMW's dedicated M models.

The MAD-162 is designed for compatible S68 applications including:

• 2022–2025 BMW X5 G05 LCI — S68.
• 2022–2025 BMW X6 G06 LCI — S68.
• 2022–2025 BMW X7 G07 LCI — S68.
• 2021–2025 BMW XM G09 — S68.

This makes the MAD-162 relevant to a wide range of BMW owners looking for a high-flow catted primary downpipe solution.

LCI and Flange Configuration Considerations

Fitment verification is particularly important with modern BMW exhaust components.

The MAD-162 is intended for the applicable LCI configurations, and it does not fit pre-LCI applications where the relevant factory configuration differs.

Before ordering from XPH, customers should confirm:

• Exact BMW model.
• Model year.
• S68 engine.
• LCI status where applicable.
• Primary downpipe flange configuration.
• xDrive or non-xDrive configuration where applicable.
• Market-specific vehicle configuration.

Where fitment is uncertain, providing the vehicle VIN can help verify compatibility before purchasing.

Compatible European-market applications may also differ in configuration, so regional fitment should be confirmed before ordering.

Direct Bolt-On Installation

The MAD-162 is designed as a direct bolt-on replacement for the factory primary downpipes on compatible applications.

OEM-style brackets and flanges are used to provide the appropriate mounting and connection points, while the design avoids the need for cutting or permanent vehicle modification.

Professional installation is recommended.

Replacing the primary downpipes involves working around the engine and turbocharger area, where components can be difficult to access and operate at extremely high temperatures. Proper installation is important to ensure that all connections, fasteners, brackets, and exhaust components are correctly positioned.

After installation, the complete system should be checked for leaks and proper clearance.

Tuning and Supporting Modifications

The MAD-162 can be incorporated into a broader S68 performance build.

Depending on the vehicle, owners may combine the downpipes with other modifications such as:

• Aftermarket midpipes.
• Cat-back exhaust systems.
• Intake upgrades.
• Cooling upgrades.
• Turbocharger upgrades.
• Fuel-system modifications.
• ECU calibration.

Additional tuning or supporting modifications may be required depending on the vehicle and configuration.

The downpipes themselves are designed to improve exhaust flow, but the final performance outcome is determined by the complete vehicle setup.

For customers shopping for complementary BMW performance parts, XPH carries a wide selection of aftermarket components across the BMW platform, allowing the MAD-162 to be incorporated into a broader build rather than treated as an isolated upgrade.

Check-Engine Light Considerations

The MAD-162 retains catalytic converters, but this does not guarantee that an aftermarket downpipe installation will prevent a check-engine light.

Modern BMW vehicles continuously monitor the emissions system, including catalyst efficiency and oxygen-sensor behavior. Changing the factory downpipe configuration can therefore affect how the vehicle's ECU interprets exhaust-system data.

Whether an emissions-related fault occurs can depend on the specific vehicle, software calibration, catalyst configuration, and other modifications.

Customers should take this into consideration before installing aftermarket primary downpipes.

MAD Limited Lifetime Warranty

The MAD-162 is backed by MAD's limited lifetime warranty, subject to the manufacturer's applicable warranty terms and conditions.

Warranty coverage should be reviewed according to MAD's current terms before installation, including any applicable exclusions or requirements.

MAD BMW S68 Primary Catted Downpipes MAD-162 Key Features

• High-flow catted primary downpipes for BMW S68 applications.
• Designed for 2025+ BMW G90 M5 and G99 M5 Touring.
• Designed for applicable F95 X5 M and F96 X6 M LCI models.
• Compatible with applicable S68-powered G05 X5, G06 X6, G07 X7, and G09 XM models.
• Designed to improve exhaust flow and performance potential.
• Helps promote faster turbocharger spool characteristics.
• Helps sharpen throttle response and engine responsiveness.
• Produces a deeper, more aggressive exhaust character.
• Retains catalytic converters for improved exhaust odor control compared with catless configurations.
• 2.0mm-wall 304 stainless-steel construction.
• TIG-welded and back-purged.
• OEM-style brackets and flanges.
• Direct bolt-on design.
• Designed without cutting or permanent vehicle modification.
• MAD limited lifetime warranty, subject to applicable terms.
• Part Number: MAD-162.

Upgrade Your S68 Through XPH

The MAD BMW S68 Primary Catted Downpipes MAD-162 provide an option for BMW owners looking to improve the exhaust-flow characteristics of their S68-powered vehicle while retaining catalytic converters.

With 304 stainless-steel construction, 2.0mm wall thickness, TIG-welded and back-purged fabrication, OEM-style mounting features, and broad S68 fitment, the MAD-162 is built around the demands of BMW's latest high-performance platforms.

Whether you're modifying a G90 M5, G99 M5 Touring, F95 X5 M, F96 X6 M, G05 X5, G06 X6, G07 X7, or G09 XM, the MAD-162 can form part of a larger S68 performance build.

Extreme Power House (XPH) offers the MAD S68 Primary Catted Downpipes alongside a broad selection of BMW performance parts and aftermarket upgrades. Check the product listing for current availability, pricing, and vehicle-specific fitment information before ordering: https://x-ph.com/mad-bmw-2024-s68-primary-catted-downpipes-g90-g99-m5-f95-f96-x5m-x6m-g05-g06-g07-g09-mad-162/