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SXTH Element 2025+ 4Runner CPLT Intake — Honest Review
I recently installed the SXTH Element CPLT Intake on my 2025 Toyota TRD ORP, and overall I’m very pleased—but it wasn’t without its headaches. If you’re thinking of installing this yourself, especially if you’re not mechanically inclined, there are some things you’ll want to know first.
⸻
What the Product Claims
From the spec sheet and SXTH Element’s product page:
• Fits the 2025+ 4Runner (gas or hybrid).
• No tuning required on most models; the design is supposed to yield gains without triggering check engine lights.
• Up to 14 HP and torque gain at the wheels in back-to-back dyno tests compared to the stock intake.
• Features like a high-flow dry air filter, a larger airbox, a smoother intake tube tuned for optimal MAF (mass air flow) performance, and a QuickSnap magnetic lid to make filter access simpler.
So on paper, this is a serious step up from stock—more airflow, better efficiency, and good design features.
⸻
Installation
I’d highly recommend watching these three videos before you start.
My plan was to make a video, but when I got to the 30 minute mark, I decided to abort that plan and focus on the installation.
1. My Mechanical Experience
I’m not mechanically savvy—this was my first time installing an air box. If you’re like me, expect to spend more time than 15-20 minutes. It took me about an hour.
2. Obstacles from Previous Modifications
I had a winch installed previously, and the cables routed to the battery in the engine bay/fender area were in the way. I had to move those cables out of the way so I could properly install the new airbox.
3. Fitting the Pieces
The components are high quality, and everything is machined and molded well. But some of the connections are tight. To get the intake tube and airbox properly seated, I needed lubrication (a little WD 40 worked) on the rubber seals and joints so parts would slide together without forcing things too hard.
4. QuickSnap Lid
This is a nice feature. The magnetic lid makes it easier to open/close the airbox without losing hardware, which is a big plus. It felt like a thoughtful design element.
5. Time & Patience
The install ended up taking longer than I expected. Because of the cables, need for lubrication, checking for air leaks, etc., I easily spent an extra 30-40 minutes over what a seasoned DIYer might.
6. Aftermarket Button Snap
I had ordered some aftermarket button snaps off Amazon and found those to be a better fit to hold in the airbox. The snap in/out works a little differently, but they hold better in my opinion.
⸻
Performance & Results
Despite the tougher install, the rewards are real:
• Sound and Throttle Response: The engine breathes more freely. Throttle feels crisper. There’s a more aggressive tone—especially under load—that I didn’t have before. I can feel the throttle response improvement before the turbo even spins up.
• Power Gains: The claimed ~14 HP / TQ gain seems believable in how the vehicle accelerates. I notice better responsiveness, especially when accelerating from low RPMs, merging, etc.
• Daily Drive & Off-Road: Even in everyday driving the difference is noticeable—less strain when climbing hills, better pickup. Off-road or when pushing it, the extra airflow helps. I took the opportunity to hit a few dirt roads with some challenging mud holes, have driven around town as well as highways and interstates following the installation.
• Quality & Looks: The parts feel durable. The design is clean, neat, looks like it belongs under the hood. The smoother intake tube looks and feels like a real improvement over the OEM.
⸻
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of what I think works well, and what you should be aware of:
Final Thoughts
If I were to sum it up: the SXTH Element CPLT Intake is a high quality, performance-boosting upgrade. It lives up to many of the promises—power, torque, airflow, improved sound—all of it is there. But don’t underestimate the install, especially if you’re not a seasoned wrench. The extra work with lubrication, keeping the power cables for the winch out of the way, aligning everything correctly—those made the difference between a sloppy fit and a satisfying result.
At the end of the day, I’m really happy I did it. Every time I hit the gas, I’m reminded of the improvements, and it makes the effort feel worth it. If you’ve got patience or someone to help you, this is an excellent upgrade. If not, budget a bit more time and don’t rush the fitment.
I recently installed the SXTH Element CPLT Intake on my 2025 Toyota TRD ORP, and overall I’m very pleased—but it wasn’t without its headaches. If you’re thinking of installing this yourself, especially if you’re not mechanically inclined, there are some things you’ll want to know first.
⸻
What the Product Claims
From the spec sheet and SXTH Element’s product page:
• Fits the 2025+ 4Runner (gas or hybrid).
• No tuning required on most models; the design is supposed to yield gains without triggering check engine lights.
• Up to 14 HP and torque gain at the wheels in back-to-back dyno tests compared to the stock intake.
• Features like a high-flow dry air filter, a larger airbox, a smoother intake tube tuned for optimal MAF (mass air flow) performance, and a QuickSnap magnetic lid to make filter access simpler.
So on paper, this is a serious step up from stock—more airflow, better efficiency, and good design features.
⸻
Installation
I’d highly recommend watching these three videos before you start.
My plan was to make a video, but when I got to the 30 minute mark, I decided to abort that plan and focus on the installation.
1. My Mechanical Experience
I’m not mechanically savvy—this was my first time installing an air box. If you’re like me, expect to spend more time than 15-20 minutes. It took me about an hour.
2. Obstacles from Previous Modifications
I had a winch installed previously, and the cables routed to the battery in the engine bay/fender area were in the way. I had to move those cables out of the way so I could properly install the new airbox.
3. Fitting the Pieces
The components are high quality, and everything is machined and molded well. But some of the connections are tight. To get the intake tube and airbox properly seated, I needed lubrication (a little WD 40 worked) on the rubber seals and joints so parts would slide together without forcing things too hard.
4. QuickSnap Lid
This is a nice feature. The magnetic lid makes it easier to open/close the airbox without losing hardware, which is a big plus. It felt like a thoughtful design element.
5. Time & Patience
The install ended up taking longer than I expected. Because of the cables, need for lubrication, checking for air leaks, etc., I easily spent an extra 30-40 minutes over what a seasoned DIYer might.
6. Aftermarket Button Snap
I had ordered some aftermarket button snaps off Amazon and found those to be a better fit to hold in the airbox. The snap in/out works a little differently, but they hold better in my opinion.
⸻
Performance & Results
Despite the tougher install, the rewards are real:
• Sound and Throttle Response: The engine breathes more freely. Throttle feels crisper. There’s a more aggressive tone—especially under load—that I didn’t have before. I can feel the throttle response improvement before the turbo even spins up.
• Power Gains: The claimed ~14 HP / TQ gain seems believable in how the vehicle accelerates. I notice better responsiveness, especially when accelerating from low RPMs, merging, etc.
• Daily Drive & Off-Road: Even in everyday driving the difference is noticeable—less strain when climbing hills, better pickup. Off-road or when pushing it, the extra airflow helps. I took the opportunity to hit a few dirt roads with some challenging mud holes, have driven around town as well as highways and interstates following the installation.
• Quality & Looks: The parts feel durable. The design is clean, neat, looks like it belongs under the hood. The smoother intake tube looks and feels like a real improvement over the OEM.
⸻
Pros & Cons
Here’s a summary of what I think works well, and what you should be aware of:
| Pros | Cons / Caveats |
| Big gains in airflow, power, and torque without needing tuning. | Installation is more involved than suggested if you aren’t experienced. |
| Quiet, clean, durable build. Nice finish and design touches. | Previous modifications might block paths or make fitment more difficult. |
| QuickSnap magnetic lid is a smart addition for maintenance. | Tubing / joints are tight; you’ll want lubrication to assemble things without strain. |
| Noticeably better performance and improved throttle feel. | Takes extra patience, possibly more than the expected time. |
Final Thoughts
If I were to sum it up: the SXTH Element CPLT Intake is a high quality, performance-boosting upgrade. It lives up to many of the promises—power, torque, airflow, improved sound—all of it is there. But don’t underestimate the install, especially if you’re not a seasoned wrench. The extra work with lubrication, keeping the power cables for the winch out of the way, aligning everything correctly—those made the difference between a sloppy fit and a satisfying result.
At the end of the day, I’m really happy I did it. Every time I hit the gas, I’m reminded of the improvements, and it makes the effort feel worth it. If you’ve got patience or someone to help you, this is an excellent upgrade. If not, budget a bit more time and don’t rush the fitment.
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