Description
The Evolution Racewerks (ER) Competition Series Front Mount Intercooler is engineered as a direct-fit, high-performance upgrade for the 2012–2015 BMW 125i, 228i, 320i, 328i, 420i and 428i equipped with the N20 or N26 engine. After more than a year of on-track and real-world development, this intercooler delivers exceptional cooling efficiency, faster recovery, and long-term reliability under demanding conditions.
The core of the ER Competition FMIC is a large 20" x 11" x 3" (26" x 11" x 3" including end tanks) high-density bar-and-plate unit offering 660 cubic inches of cooling volume, a 35% increase over the factory tube-and-fin design. ER’s custom high-density fin layout (18–20 fins per square inch) provides a higher heat-transfer surface area than typical aftermarket cores, resulting in significantly lower intake air temperatures and exceptional resistance to heat-soak. Independent user and shop testing has repeatedly shown that ER cores can cool IATs to near-ambient temperatures and maintain stability across the full RPM range, even during extended high-boost pulls.
Designed for true competition use, this intercooler supports high-power applications, withstands heavy track abuse, and recovers rapidly after each gear change. The efficient cast end tanks are engineered to reduce turbulence, promote smooth airflow, and minimize pressure drop, aiding throttle response, spool, and overall drivability.
Notable design advantages include moving the intercooler forward in the F-Series chassis for increased frontal surface area and more direct airflow. This placement improves cooling without requiring odd-shaped tanks or sacrificing internal flow. The FMIC fits securely behind the bumper cover and gives the car a more aggressive appearance.
Every unit uses factory-style connectors and retains all OEM components. Installation requires no cutting, trimming, or modifying. The kit includes all hardware, detailed instructions, and is fully compatible with factory charge piping or ER’s charge pipe upgrades.
The standard finish is brushed aluminum, with optional polished or Type III Hard Black Anodized finishes. The hard anodizing not only offers a stealth look but also increases durability by strengthening the fins against debris such as rocks. ER originally developed this finish for rally applications, where intercoolers withstand substantial physical abuse. Testing has shown no negative performance impact from the Type III coating.
Each intercooler is pressure-tested to 50 PSI prior to packaging. Evolution Racewerks backs all Competition Series FMIC units with a Limited Lifetime Warranty and offers the product in three package levels: Basic, Standard, and Full Kits.
With years of race-car development and uncompromising quality standards behind it, the ER Competition Series Front Mount Intercooler is designed to be the last intercooler you will ever need.
Fitment:
- BMW 125i / 228i / 320i / 328i / 420i / 428i with N20 or N26 engine (2012–2015)
