A 150-cell metallic-core catalytic converter that flows more freely than the factory ceramic unit, sharpening the Renesis exhaust note without decat harshness.
Original price was: $2,600.$2,179Current price is: $2,179.
The HKS RX8 metal catalyser is a direct-replacement, high-flow catalytic converter built specifically for the Renesis engine. It replaces an ageing ceramic factory cat that deteriorates under rotary exhaust temperatures and steadily chokes flow. The result: a freer-breathing exhaust path, a more alive note, and retained emissions equipment in one bolt-on upgrade.
This is the considered middle ground for road-driven RX8s. A straight decat pipe removes all restriction but brings smell, drone and potential cabin intrusion. This HKS catalytic converter keeps purification working while delivering flow that a worn OEM unit simply cannot match.
For RX8 enthusiasts who want a sharper exhaust character without sacrificing daily drivability, the HKS metal catalyser delivers where it counts. You notice the difference climbing through the rev range. The note becomes more progressive and mechanical, making the Renesis feel properly alive. You keep your catalytic converter working and lose the compromises of both extremes.
This RX8 metal catalyser pairs directly with the HKS Hi-Power Cat-Back Exhaust with Titanium Tip for a fully matched HKS system from cat to tip. If you are still weighing your options, the GP SPORT Exas High-flow Power Catalyser is another well-regarded high-flow RX8 catalytic converter worth comparing. Australian buyers can review manufacturer product details at the HKS official website.
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Related RX8 Upgrades
Yes, the HKS metal catalyser is a bolt-on direct replacement that suits both Series 1 (2003-2008) and Series 2 (2009-2012) RX8 models. No modification is required for fitment alongside compatible exhaust components.
The factory ceramic catalyst becomes heat-fatigued over time under the demanding exhaust temperatures a rotary engine produces. A metallic substrate handles those thermal demands better, offering stronger flow and greater durability as the car ages.
Josh at RX8 Upgrades has run HKS and SAARD high-flow catalysts personally and reports good real-world experience with catalyst-related warning lights on quality high-flow units, though individual results can vary depending on your specific setup and tune.
A straight decat pipe removes all emissions equipment, which can introduce exhaust smell, harshness and potential cabin intrusion. The HKS metal catalyser gives you meaningfully stronger flow over the factory unit while retaining a catalytic converter, keeping everyday drivability intact and avoiding the downsides of a full decat.
Yes. Owners can expect a noticeably livelier exhaust note and sharper character compared to the restrictive factory catalyst, particularly at everyday road speeds, without the harshness associated with a straight pipe.
It pairs naturally with the HKS Hi-Power Cat-Back Exhaust with Titanium Tip, creating a matched HKS system from catalyst to tip. Running matched components from the same manufacturer ensures the system is designed to work together from the outset.
It is specifically suited to road-driven RX8s. It improves flow and exhaust character over the ageing factory unit while retaining full daily drivability, making it a strong choice for owners who want a more alive-feeling car without compromising practicality.
