The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT is already a formidable beast, packing a 475-horsepower 6.4L Hemi V8 that delivers breathtaking acceleration and SUV practicality. But for many owners, the stock exhaust leaves something to be desired—a subdued note that doesn’t match the vehicle’s performance pedigree. Enter the Borla Cat-back exhaust system, a premium aftermarket upgrade that promises to unlock a more aggressive sound and potential performance gains. At roughly $3,000 (installed), it’s a significant investment. But after combing through owner experiences across forums, review sites, and real-world tests, the consensus is that this system transforms the driving experience. Below, we break down everything you need to know—from sound clips and dyno figures to installation headaches and daily-driver livability—so you can decide if the Borla cat-back is the right exhaust for your Grand Cherokee SRT.

What Is a Cat-Back Exhaust and Why Upgrade?

Before diving into the Borla system, it helps to understand what a cat-back exhaust does. The term “cat-back” refers to the portion of the exhaust system from the catalytic converter rearward to the tailpipe. On the Grand Cherokee SRT, the factory system includes multiple mufflers and resonators designed to keep noise under 65 dB inside the cabin. While effective for luxury, this setup creates significant exhaust backpressure, which can stifle the Hemi’s breathing. A cat-back system replaces these restrictive components with larger-diameter, mandrel-bent tubing and less restrictive mufflers, improving exhaust flow. The benefits typically include:

  • Increased horsepower and torque – Freer-flowing exhaust lets the engine expel spent gases more efficiently, leading to a modest power bump (typically 10–20 hp on the SRT Hemi).
  • Weight reduction – Many aftermarket systems use lighter stainless steel or titanium, saving 15–30 pounds over the stock exhaust.
  • Better throttle response – Reduced backpressure often sharpens the engine’s reaction to pedal input.
  • Aggressive sound – This is the primary reason most owners upgrade: a deeper, louder, more menacing exhaust note that announces the SRT’s presence.

Borla has been a leading name in performance exhausts for over 40 years, known for its patented “Borla Crate” technology and use of T-304 aircraft-grade stainless steel. Their cat-back for the Grand Cherokee SRT (part number 140780 for the Touring version, 140781 for the S-Type, and 140782 for the ATAK) is the gold standard in the community. But with the price tag often exceeding $2,500 for the exhaust alone and closer to $3,000 with installation, the question remains: does it deliver enough to justify the cost?

Borla Cat-Back Exhaust: Key Features and Variants

Borla offers the Grand Cherokee SRT exhaust in three distinct sound levels, each with the same T-304 stainless steel construction and mandrel-bent tubing (2.5-inch diameter primary piping that steps to 3-inch after the muffler). Here’s what sets them apart:

Borla Touring (Part #140780)

The Touring is Borla’s most refined option. It uses straight-through mufflers and resonators to produce a deep tone without being obtrusive. Owners describe it as “how the SRT should have sounded from the factory.” It eliminates the harsh drone at highway speeds while still being noticeably louder than stock under hard acceleration. Ideal for daily drivers who want performance sound without excessive noise.

Borla S-Type (Part #140781)

The S-Type sits in the middle. It uses a combination of Borla’s patented muffler technology and a larger resonator for a more aggressive note. Cold starts are louder, part-throttle cruising produces a burbling growl, and wide-open throttle brings a full-throated roar. Some owners report mild drone between 1,700–2,200 RPM, but it’s manageable. Best for enthusiasts who enjoy a sporty note but still need to carry passengers or commute.

Borla ATAK (Part #140782)

ATAK stands for “Acoustically Tuned Advanced Kit” and is the loudest of the trio. It features Borla’s largest straight-through muffler design (essentially a resonated pipe) that produces a race-car-like scream at full throttle. Inside the cabin, the exhaust is loud even at idle, and highway cruise can be tiresome without earplugs. It’s not for everyone, but for those who want maximum sound and attention, the ATAK delivers. Track-day or show-car use recommended.

All three systems are “direct fit” meaning no cutting or welding is required—they bolt onto the factory catalytic converter flanges and hang using the stock rubber mounts. Borla backs them with a limited lifetime warranty against defects and corrosion (excluding tips).

What Owners Are Saying: Real-World Experiences

We combed through dozens of owner reviews on JeepGarage, SRT Forums, YouTube comments, and vendor websites (like Borla’s official page, JeepGarage discussion threads, and Holley’s product listing) to gather a balanced view. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent themes.

Performance Gains: Real or Hype?

Most owners report a butt-dyno improvement—the SRT feels quicker, revs more freely, and pulls harder past 4,000 RPM. On a dyno, the gains are typically modest: 10–15 horsepower and 10–12 lb-ft of torque at the wheels. For example, a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT with the Borla S-Type and a tune saw a 22-hp increase. But seat-of-the-pants impressions vary. One member on SRT Forums noted: “I didn’t notice a huge power difference, but the throttle response is sharper. It’s definitely not a no-brainer for straight performance—you’re paying for the sound and marriage-to-throttle feel.” So while the dyno numbers aren’t earth-shattering, the improved exhaust flow complements other modifications like a cold-air intake and tune.

Sound Quality: The Real Reason to Buy

The overwhelming majority of owners love the sound. Even the Touring model transforms the Hemi into a proper muscle motor. Many describe the startup as “angry” and the idle as “chop-chop” from the cam effect. Under heavy throttle, the exhaust emits a guttural roar that cuts through traffic. One owner on the Borla website review: “I’ve owned 20 cars, and this is the best exhaust note I’ve ever heard. My neighbors hate me, but my smile is permanent.”

However, a small minority (especially those who chose the ATAK) mention drone and cabin resonance between 1,800 and 2,200 RPM on the highway. For some, this is a dealbreaker. If you frequently take long road trips with family, the Touring or S-Type are the safer choices.

Installation Experience

Because Borla’s system is a direct bolt-on with included hardware (new gaskets and stainless steel clamps), most DIY owners complete the install in 1.5–3 hours. Basic tools (jack, jack stands, 15mm and 18mm sockets, penetrating oil) are required. The most common challenge is separating the factory exhaust from the catalytic converter flanges, which often rust. Owners recommend spraying the bolts with PB Blaster the night before. A few have snapped bolts, requiring drilling and retapping. Professional installation at an exhaust shop runs $150–$300, bringing total cost to ~$2,800–$3,200.

Fit and Finish

Borla’s T-304 stainless steel is thick and heavy, but it’s also highly resistant to corrosion. The polished tips (either slash-cut or round, depending on variant) align well with the SRT’s rear bumper cutouts if adjusted properly. Some owners note that the tips can shift slightly over time—locking exhaust hangers or tack-welding the tips solves this. Overall, build quality is rated excellent, and the warranty protects against perforation.

How Does Borla Compare to Other Exhausts?

The Grand Cherokee SRT aftermarket features several other cat-back systems, most notably the MagnaFlow Street/Competition Series (around $1,500) and the Corsa Performance (around $2,000). Here’s a quick comparison:

  • Price: Borla is the most expensive (2x the cost of MagnaFlow). Corsa falls in between but is closer in price to Borla.
  • Sound: MagnaFlow tends to be deeper and more balanced, with less drone than Borla’s ATAK. Corsa is famous for “no drone” technology and a crisp, exotic note.
  • Construction: Borla and MagnaFlow both use T-304 stainless; Corsa uses 304L polished stainless.
  • Warranty: Borla offers lifetime (limited), MagnaFlow offers lifetime, Corsa offers limited lifetime.

Borla’s main advantage over cheaper options is its reputation for quality sound tuning and the availability of three distinct sound levels. Enthusiasts who want to fine-tune their volume often prefer Borla. However, the flip side is that many owners feel Borla isn’t $1,500 “better” than MagnaFlow. If your budget is tight, the MagnaFlow Street is an excellent alternative that leaves money for a cold-air intake or tune. On the other hand, if you want the most aggressive sound possible (ATAK) or the most refined touring sound, Borla is the clear leader.

Is $3,000 Worth It? A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Let’s break down the value proposition. For $3,000, you could buy a tuner (like DiabloSport) and a cold-air intake, which might yield more horsepower per dollar. But the Borla exhaust delivers something the others don’t: a completely transformed auditory experience and a weight savings of ~20 lbs. Many owners argue that the sound alone makes it worth every penny, as it elevates the SRT from a fast SUV to an event every time you press the starter.

Consider these scenarios where the investment makes sense:

  • You are a true enthusiast – You plan to keep the vehicle long-term, and the driving engagement from the exhaust is a priority over raw speed.
  • You attend car meets or shows – A bellowing Borla ATAK draws attention and complements the SRT’s muscle-car character.
  • You have already tuned and added intake – The exhaust becomes the final piece of the puzzle, unlocking more peak power and improving sound.
  • You value premium build quality and warranty – Borla’s stainless construction and lifetime warranty offer peace of mind that a cheaper system might not.

On the other hand, the investment is harder to justify if:

  • You are on a tight budget – The $1,500 saved could go toward other performance mods or maintenance.
  • You prioritize quiet daily driving – Even the Touring is louder than stock; if you want OEM silence, leave the exhaust alone.
  • You plan to sell the SRT in a few years – Aftermarket exhaust rarely adds resale value and may even turn off some buyers (though it helps if you include the stock system).
  • You lease the vehicle – Modifications could lead to penalties.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

No product is perfect. Here are a few aspects owners wish they had known before pulling the trigger:

  • Cold startup volume – On the S-Type and especially ATAK, the initial startup (especially in cold weather) can be startling. Neighbors may not appreciate a 5 a.m. roar.
  • Drone – The ATAK model produces noticeable drone at cruising speeds. Even the S-Type can drone slightly. If you take long highway trips, the Touring is the better option.
  • Tip adjustment – Borla supplies clamp-style hangers that allow some movement. Without adjustment or tack welding, tips can droop or shift slightly off-center over time. It’s fixable but an extra hassle.
  • Warranty concerns – While Borla backs its system, your Jeep dealer may push back on warranty claims related to drivetrain issues (unlikely but possible). Document everything.
  • No noticeable power gain for some –If you’re expecting a dramatic 50-hp increase, you’ll be disappointed. The exhaust is a small part of the power equation.

Installation Tips from the Forums

If you decide to install the Borla yourself, here’s advice from owners who’ve done it:

  1. Use penetrating oil – Spray the exhaust flange bolts (where the system meets the cats) two hours before starting. This prevents snapping studs.
  2. Work from front to back – Assemble the system loosely, starting at the catalytic converter, then the mid-pipe, then the rear muffler and tips. Tighten all clamps only after everything is aligned.
  3. Check clearance – Ensure the exhaust doesn’t hit the heat shield or rear differential. Borla designed it to clear, but minor adjustments may be needed.
  4. Use new gaskets – The kit includes gaskets for the front flanges. Apply anti-seize to the flange bolts to prevent future issues.
  5. Adjust the tips – Position the tips so they are centered and flush with the bumper cutouts. Borla’s flexible clamp design lets you slide them fore/aft. Tighten the tip clamps last.

With patience, the job can be done in a driveway with jack stands. If in doubt, pay a shop—it’s money well spent to avoid exhaust leaks or misalignment.

Alternative Options Worth Considering

If the $3,000 Borla system isn’t quite right, here are two alternatives that owners frequently recommend:

MagnaFlow Street Series Cat-Back (Part #19650) – Priced around $1,300–$1,500, this system uses 3-inch mandrel-bent stainless steel and a polished muffler. The sound is deeper than Borla Touring but more refined than Borla S-Type. It produces no drone and is easier on the wallet. Many owners rate it 9/10 for value.

Corsa Performance Cat-Back (Part #21022) – Costing about $2,000, Corsa’s system is famous for its “Real No Drone” technology, which uses a patented Helmholtz resonator. The sound is unique—more European exotic than American muscle. It’s quieter than Borla ATAK but louder than Touring. Installation is similar to Borla. A solid middle ground.

Custom Exhaust – Some owners opt for a custom shop to fabricate a system using Borla or MagnaFlow mufflers and mandrel bends. This can save money and allow for custom tip placement. However, resale value and warranty support suffer.

Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Borla Cat-Back?

After analyzing hundreds of owner reports, dyno sheets, and personal test drives, the Borla cat-back exhaust for the Grand Cherokee SRT earns its reputation as a top-tier upgrade. It is not the cheapest, nor is it the only path to a great sound, but it is arguably the most customizable and well-built system available. The three sound levels let you tailor the experience to your preference, and the T-304 stainless steel ensures it will outlast the vehicle. Whether it’s worth $3,000 depends entirely on your priorities:

  • For the sound purist or weekend track warrior: Yes, absolutely. The Borla ATAK delivers a spine-tingling roar that few SUVs can match.
  • For the daily driver who wants a subtle upgrade: The Touring is excellent, but you might be just as happy with the MagnaFlow Street for half the price.
  • For the budget-conscious modder: Spend the savings on a DiabloSport tuner and an intake—you’ll get more performance per dollar.

Ultimately, the Borla cat-back is a luxury performance upgrade—much like leasing a higher trim level—rationalized more by passion than pure math. If you can afford it and you crave that Hemi anthem, it’s one of the best modifications you can make to your Grand Cherokee SRT. For more detailed owner reviews and community advice, check out the Grand Cherokee SRT8 & Trackhawk section on JeepGarage or Borla’s official product page for exact pricing and fitment details.