SOUL Performance Products

The SOUL Performance Bolt-On X-Pipe with Exhaust Tips is a premium aftermarket exhaust upgrade for Porsche Boxster and Cayman 987.2 and 981 models manufactured between 2009 and 2016.

Fits:

• Porsche Boxster 987 MKII 2.9L 2009-12
• Porsche Boxster S 987 MKII 3.4L 2009-12
• Porsche Boxster 981 2.7L 2012-16
• Porsche Boxster 981 S / GTS 3.4L 2012-16
• Porsche Cayman 2.9L 987C MKII 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman S / R 3.4L 987C MKII 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman 2.7L 981 2013-16
• Porsche Cayman S / GTS 3.4L 981 2013-16  

Designed to replace the original T-shaped exhaust outlet section, this system incorporates a smooth-flowing cast stainless steel X-pipe and a choice of exhaust tip styles and finishes.

The original Porsche rear exhaust outlet uses a T-shaped configuration that brings the exhaust gas streams together before they exit the vehicle.

SOUL Performance has developed an alternative X-pipe design intended to create a smoother transition between the exhaust streams, reducing turbulence at the outlet junction.

The result is a more efficient exhaust outlet arrangement with a deeper, smoother and more sporting sound.

Manufactured using cast T304L stainless steel, the X-pipe features smooth internal passages designed to promote exhaust flow and eliminate protruding weld material within the central crossover section.

The cast design also provides a robust construction intended to withstand repeated heating and cooling cycles, exhaust vibration and demanding driving conditions.

Rather than requiring the replacement of the entire rear silencer system, this product is designed to attach directly to the existing compatible factory exhaust.

This makes it an attractive upgrade for Porsche owners who appreciate the sound and character of their existing exhaust but want improved styling and a different exhaust tone.

A variety of exhaust tip designs and finishes allows the rear appearance to be personalised.

Depending on the selected configuration, available options include single-wall stainless steel tips, double-wall chrome-style tips and lightweight titanium tips.

The X-pipe is compatible with both standard factory exhaust systems and Porsche Sport Exhaust (PSE), retaining the existing rear silencer arrangement.

SOUL Performance designs its exhaust products for both road and track applications and provides a manufacturer's lifetime warranty, subject to the applicable warranty terms.

Ideal for Porsche enthusiasts seeking an exhaust styling upgrade, a more distinctive engine note and improved outlet flow without installing a complete aftermarket exhaust system.

What This Product Does:
The SOUL Performance X-pipe replaces the original T-shaped exhaust outlet junction with a smoother crossover design.

On the original system, exhaust gases from the two rear silencer outlets meet within the factory T-section before passing through the exhaust tips.

The SOUL X-pipe provides a more gradual path for these gases to merge and exit the vehicle.

This design is intended to reduce turbulence and produce a smoother exhaust flow.

Its primary functions include:

• Improving exhaust outlet flow: Provides a smoother internal route for exhaust gases leaving the rear silencers.
• Reducing turbulence: Replaces the factory T-junction with an X-shaped crossover.
• Refining the exhaust note: Produces a smoother and deeper exhaust character.
• Enhancing sporting sound: Adds a more pronounced exhaust tone, particularly during acceleration.
• Maintaining the factory rear silencers: Allows the original mufflers to remain installed.
• Preserving PSE compatibility: Works with Porsche Sport Exhaust-equipped vehicles.
• Improving rear-end styling: Replaces the factory exhaust outlet appearance with selected aftermarket tips.
• Providing exhaust tip customisation: Allows different styles, materials and finishes.
• Supporting efficient gas flow: Uses a smooth cast internal design to minimise unnecessary restrictions at the outlet junction.
• Providing durable construction: Uses stainless steel designed for exhaust-system conditions.

The X-pipe changes the outlet arrangement rather than replacing the catalytic converters, exhaust manifolds or complete rear silencer system.

Exhaust Sound Characteristics: 
SOUL Performance describes the X-pipe as producing a more refined exhaust note.

Depending on the vehicle's engine, existing exhaust specification and selected driving mode, owners may notice:

• A deeper exhaust tone at idle.
• A fuller and more sporting sound during acceleration.
• A smoother exhaust character at higher engine speeds.
• More noticeable exhaust character under load.
• A change in the tonal balance of the original exhaust.

The upgrade is designed to improve exhaust character and visual appearance without requiring the installation of a full aftermarket exhaust system.

Replacing the factory outlet arrangement with the SOUL X-pipe offers several benefits.

Improved Exhaust Flow

• The original T-shaped outlet brings the exhaust streams together through a comparatively abrupt junction.
• SOUL's cast X-pipe uses smooth internal passages to create a more gradual flow path.
• This is intended to reduce turbulence at the outlet and improve the efficiency of the exhaust junction.

Enhanced Exhaust Sound

• The X-pipe changes the way exhaust pulses interact before leaving the vehicle.
• This can create a deeper and smoother exhaust note, adding character while retaining the existing rear silencers.

Customised Rear Appearance

• The original exhaust tips can be replaced with a selection of premium tip designs.
• This allows owners to personalise the rear appearance of their Porsche with different finishes and shapes.

Retention of the Factory Exhaust

• The X-pipe is designed to bolt onto the compatible factory exhaust or Porsche Sport Exhaust system.
• This allows owners to modify the exhaust outlet without replacing the complete rear silencer assembly.

Durable Stainless Steel Construction

• The cast T304L stainless steel X-pipe provides a corrosion-resistant design for demanding exhaust operating conditions.
• Its smooth cast crossover avoids internal weld protrusions that could otherwise interfere with the exhaust gas path.

Potential Performance Benefits

• SOUL Performance states that the improved flow arrangement may contribute to minor improvements in performance and cruising efficiency.
• However, specific horsepower, torque or fuel economy gains are not guaranteed, and the manufacturer does not publish a verified performance figure for every individual application.
• The primary benefits should therefore be regarded as improved outlet flow, exhaust tone and appearance.

The SOUL Performance Long Tube Street Headers are high-performance aftermarket exhaust manifolds developed specifically for Porsche 987.2 Boxster and Cayman models manufactured between 2009 and 2012.

Fits:

• Porsche Boxster 987 MKII 2.9L 2009-12
• Porsche Boxster S 987 MKII 3.4L 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman 2.9L 987C MKII 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman S / R 3.4L 987C MKII 2009-12  

Designed for the naturally aspirated 2.9-litre and 3.4-litre flat-six engines, these headers replace the original Porsche exhaust manifold and catalytic converter assemblies with a freer-flowing stainless steel design incorporating high-flow catalytic converters.

The factory exhaust system is engineered to balance performance, emissions control, noise regulations and everyday usability. SOUL Performance developed its Long Tube Street Headers to improve exhaust gas flow and enhance the engine's characteristic sound while retaining catalytic exhaust treatment.

Each header features 2-inch primary runners, carefully formed bends, port-matched mounting flanges and optimised exhaust collectors.

The long-tube design is intended to help exhaust gases leave the cylinder heads more efficiently, supporting improved engine breathing and throttle response.

The headers are manufactured from T304L stainless steel, providing corrosion resistance, strength and durability under demanding exhaust operating temperatures.

Large-diameter, free-flowing catalytic converters are incorporated into the assemblies to reduce exhaust restriction compared with the manufacturer's intended factory baseline while retaining a catalytic treatment stage.

Unlike catalyst-free Competition Headers, the SOUL Long Tube Street Headers maintain catalytic converters within the exhaust system.

They are specifically developed for the Porsche 987.2 platform, with the primary runner diameter and collector geometry selected to complement the performance characteristics of both the 2.9L and 3.4L engines.

SOUL Performance reports dynamometer testing on its project Cayman S equipped with PDK transmission and a compatible SOUL Valved Exhaust System.

The manufacturer recorded improvements in wheel horsepower and torque around 4,100 RPM, although the figures published in different sections of its product page vary.

In addition to improved exhaust flow, the headers are designed to produce a stronger, fuller and more distinctive flat-six exhaust note.

The final sound depends on the installed rear exhaust system, engine specification and driving conditions.

Each header assembly is quality-checked, tested in an installation fixture and supplied with fitting instructions.

New high-grade hardware for the header-to-exhaust flange connections is included.

SOUL Performance also offers an optional copper exhaust header gasket set for installation.

The system is designed as a direct bolt-on replacement for the compatible original exhaust manifold arrangement, without requiring bespoke fabrication in a standard installation.

Backed by the SOUL Performance lifetime warranty, subject to the manufacturer's conditions, these headers provide an attractive upgrade for enthusiasts seeking improved exhaust flow, enhanced throttle response and a more engaging engine soundtrack.

What This Product Does:
Exhaust headers collect combustion gases from the engine's cylinder heads and direct them towards the remainder of the exhaust system.

The Porsche 987.2 Boxster and Cayman use naturally aspirated flat-six engines, where efficient exhaust gas movement is important for engine breathing and power delivery.

The SOUL Long Tube Street Headers replace the original manifold and catalytic converter assemblies with longer primary runners and improved collector geometry.

Their main functions include:

• Collecting exhaust gases: Direct gases away from the engine's cylinder heads.
• Improving exhaust flow: Provide smoother internal passages to reduce unnecessary restriction.
• Supporting exhaust scavenging: Use runner length and collector design to encourage efficient exhaust pulse movement.
• Enhancing throttle response: Support improved engine responsiveness during acceleration.
• Increasing performance potential: Help the engine breathe more efficiently, particularly under load.
• Supporting mid-range performance: Provide an exhaust arrangement developed to improve torque delivery.
• Enhancing flat-six sound: Produce a fuller and more pronounced exhaust note.
• Retaining catalytic treatment: Pass exhaust gases through integrated high-flow catalytic converters.
• Reducing exhaust restriction: Use large-diameter catalysts and smooth-flowing tubing.
• Maintaining downstream connections: Connect to a compatible rear exhaust system.
• Providing durable construction: Use corrosion-resistant T304L stainless steel.
• Supporting performance modifications: Complement compatible rear exhaust upgrades and appropriate engine tuning.
  

Why Upgrading Matters:

1. Improved Exhaust Gas Flow

The headers use long primary runners, smooth-radius tubing and optimised collectors to improve exhaust gas movement away from the cylinder heads.

This helps reduce unnecessary restriction in the exhaust path.

2. Improved Throttle Response

SOUL designed the header geometry to support more responsive engine behaviour.

Improved exhaust flow may be noticeable during acceleration, particularly as engine speed increases.

3. Increased Performance Potential

SOUL Performance reports dyno testing on a Porsche 987.2 Cayman S equipped with PDK transmission and its Valved Exhaust System.

The manufacturer publishes gains around 4,100 RPM, with figures ranging from 7–8 wheel horsepower and 8–11 lb-ft of torque in different sections of the listing.

These are manufacturer-reported results for the tested configuration, not guaranteed gains from the headers alone.

4. Enhanced Flat-Six Exhaust Sound

The long-tube design changes the movement of exhaust pulses through the system.

This is intended to produce a fuller, more pronounced engine note, particularly during acceleration and higher engine speeds.

5. High-Flow Catalytic Converter Design

The headers incorporate large-diameter catalytic converters designed to provide an improved flow path while retaining catalytic exhaust treatment.

They are distinct from SOUL's catalyst-free Competition Headers.

6. Durable Stainless Steel Construction

T304L stainless steel offers corrosion resistance and suitability for repeated high-temperature operation.

The components are quality-checked before dispatch.

7. Weight Reduction Potential

SOUL reports a lower header weight than the original factory assemblies.

The manufacturer lists 26.25 lb for the factory headers and 24.45 lb for the SOUL headers, indicating a total reduction of approximately 1.8 lb (0.82 kg).

The listing also gives an inconsistent metric conversion, so the imperial figures should be used if quoting the manufacturer's weights.

8. Direct Bolt-On Installation

The headers are designed for the original compatible mounting arrangement.

SOUL checks each set in an installation fixture and includes fitting instructions.

9. Compatibility with Performance Exhaust Systems

The headers can be paired with the manufacturer's compatible Valved Exhaust System or other suitable downstream exhaust arrangements, subject to fitment verification.

10. Manufacturer Lifetime Warranty

SOUL Performance provides a lifetime warranty for its exhaust components, subject to its published warranty conditions.

The SOUL Performance Exhaust System is a premium aftermarket sports exhaust upgrade designed specifically for the Porsche 987.2 Boxster and Cayman models manufactured between 2009 and 2012.

Fits:

• Porsche Boxster 987 MKII 2.9L 2009-12
• Porsche Boxster S 987 MKII 3.4L 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman 2.9L 987C MKII 2009-12
• Porsche Cayman S / R 3.4L 987C MKII 2009-12  

Developed for Porsche's naturally aspirated flat-six engines, this system replaces the original rear exhaust assembly with a high-quality stainless steel exhaust featuring free-flowing pipework, performance silencers and a choice of premium exhaust tips.

The factory Porsche Boxster and Cayman exhaust is designed to balance engine performance, exhaust emissions, noise restrictions and everyday comfort. However, its relatively small pipework and substantial silencer assembly can limit the volume and character of the engine's natural exhaust note.

SOUL Performance developed this system to deliver a fuller, deeper and more engaging flat-six soundtrack without the excessive cabin resonance often associated with less refined aftermarket exhausts.

The system uses mandrel-bent T304L stainless steel tubing, designed to maintain a smooth exhaust gas path through bends and reduce unnecessary flow restriction.

Its specially developed silencers incorporate sound-absorbing materials intended to minimise undesirable drone and rasp, particularly during steady-speed cruising.

Unlike the manufacturer's separate Valved Exhaust System, this version does not incorporate electronically controlled exhaust valves.

Instead, it delivers a consistently sporty exhaust tone, similar in character to the open-valve mode of SOUL's valved system.

SOUL states that the exhaust produces a greater volume than the original Porsche Sport Exhaust (PSE) with its valves open, while retaining a refined exhaust character.

The construction incorporates reinforced silencer casings and strengthened exhaust mounting brackets, designed to provide durability during repeated heating and cooling cycles, everyday driving and demanding track use.

A choice of premium exhaust tips allows owners to personalise the rear appearance of their Porsche.

Available options include different styles and finishes of 321 stainless steel exhaust tips, alongside lightweight single-wall titanium tips.

The titanium tip option offers a weight saving of nearly one pound compared with the equivalent stainless steel tips, according to SOUL Performance.

Each exhaust assembly is quality-checked and tested in a dedicated fitting fixture before dispatch to ensure consistent installation fitment.

The system is designed for direct bolt-on installation and includes new high-grade hardware for the exhaust header flange connections, together with comprehensive installation instructions.

Backed by SOUL Performance's lifetime warranty, subject to the manufacturer's published terms, this exhaust is ideal for Porsche owners seeking a more distinctive flat-six sound, durable stainless steel construction and a simple, non-valved performance exhaust arrangement.

What This Product Does:
The SOUL Performance Exhaust System carries exhaust gases from the engine's upstream exhaust components through the rear exhaust assembly and directs them towards the exhaust outlets.

During engine operation, combustion gases leave the cylinder heads and pass through the exhaust manifolds and catalytic converters.

The gases then enter the rear exhaust, where the tubing and silencers influence exhaust flow and sound.

The SOUL system uses free-flowing stainless steel pipework and specially developed mufflers to balance strong exhaust sound with controlled resonance.

Its main functions include:

• Directing exhaust gases: Carries spent combustion gases towards the rear outlets.
• Supporting exhaust flow: Uses mandrel-bent tubing to provide a smooth gas path through the rear exhaust.
• Enhancing engine sound: Produces a deeper, fuller and more sporting flat-six exhaust note.
• Reducing unwanted drone: Incorporates silencers designed to minimise low-frequency cabin resonance.
• Controlling exhaust rasp: Helps reduce harsh or undesirable high-frequency exhaust sounds.
• Providing consistent exhaust character: Delivers a fixed sporting tone without selectable exhaust valves.
• Maintaining durable exhaust construction: Uses corrosion-resistant stainless steel and reinforced silencer housings.
• Supporting secure installation: Incorporates strengthened brackets designed for extended road and track use.
• Enhancing rear-end styling: Offers a selection of exhaust tip designs and finishes.
• Complementing performance upgrades: Designed to work with compatible aftermarket exhaust headers.
• Retaining compatible upstream components: Allows the original exhaust manifolds and catalytic converters to remain fitted.

SOUL Performance developed this system to provide a more aggressive exhaust note without the harshness or constant resonance of a completely unrestricted rear exhaust.

The manufacturer describes the sound as similar to its Valved Exhaust System with the valves open.

Owners may notice:

• A deeper exhaust tone at idle.
• A fuller flat-six soundtrack during acceleration.
• Increased sound intensity at higher engine speeds.
• More pronounced engine character during downshifts.
• A stronger exhaust note under heavy throttle.
• A more sporting sound than the standard Porsche rear exhaust.
• Reduced unwanted drone compared with less effectively silenced performance exhausts.
• A more refined tone than an unsilenced race exhaust.

The naturally aspirated engines fitted to Porsche 987.2 Boxster and Cayman models produce a distinctive flat-six soundtrack.

The SOUL exhaust is designed to emphasise this character, delivering a deeper and more engaging note during acceleration and high-RPM driving.

2. Consistently Sporting Exhaust Tone

Unlike a valved system, this exhaust does not require the driver to select a louder sound mode.

It provides its performance exhaust character whenever the engine is running.

3. Reduced Unwanted Drone and Rasp

SOUL's specially developed silencers aim to minimise unwanted resonance and harsh exhaust tones.

This provides a more refined alternative to unsilenced or poorly matched aftermarket systems.

4. Improved Exhaust Flow Potential

The system uses mandrel-bent stainless steel pipework designed to reduce unnecessary restrictions.

This may complement other appropriate performance modifications.

However, specific horsepower and torque gains have not been verified for this exhaust alone.

5. Durable Stainless Steel Construction

T304L stainless steel offers corrosion resistance and durability under repeated exhaust heating and cooling cycles.

The reinforced silencer casings are designed for long-term use.

6. Strengthened Exhaust Mounting Brackets

Exhaust mounts experience vibration, thermal expansion and mechanical stress during driving.

SOUL incorporates reinforced brackets intended to reduce the risk of cracking or failure during road and track use.

7. Simpler Non-Valved Design

The absence of exhaust valves reduces the number of moving components within the replacement rear exhaust.

This can appeal to owners who prefer a simpler performance exhaust configuration.

8. Premium Exhaust Tip Options

The system is available with a choice of stainless steel and titanium exhaust tips.

Different styles and finishes allow the owner to personalise the vehicle's rear appearance.

9. Direct Bolt-On Installation

The exhaust is designed for installation using the original compatible vehicle mounting arrangement.

SOUL quality-checks and fixture-tests the assembly before dispatch.

10. Compatibility with Performance Headers

The system is designed to work with suitable factory and aftermarket header arrangements.

Its silencers aim to control unwanted resonance, even when a freer-flowing upstream exhaust system is fitted.

11. Manufacturer Lifetime Warranty

SOUL Performance provides a lifetime warranty for its exhaust components, subject to the applicable warranty conditions.