Ultimate 370z Intake Guide

Joe Terrell
01/21/202021st January, 2020
Filed under 370z Tuning
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We’re going to show you how to unleash the awesome sounds and performance gains from your 370z by adding one of the most straightforward bolt-on upgrades – a cold air intake.

370z intake guide

In a hurry? Here’s our 370z Intake summary

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Takeda Stage-2 PRO DRY S 370z Intake Stillen Gen 3 Ultra Long Tube 370z Intake HKS Racing Suction 370z Intake
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Cold air intakes, or CAI’s, as they’re commonly known, are one of the first modifications that any 370z owner should be considering when it comes to extracting the true potential of your VQ37VHR powerplant.

Although the modern-day V6 under the hood is capable of producing respectable power from the factory, a CAI upgrade will allow for far superior airflow to ensure maximum cooling for the engine.

Since cold air intakes are a relatively inexpensive modification, and also reasonably easy to install, it’s easy to see why so many enthusiasts make it one of their first upgrades.

big angle chris forsberg 370z drift car

Thankfully, there are several excellent options available for the 370z that have been tried and tested over hundreds of thousands of miles, and we’ve created this guide to help you achieve the best gains for your buck.

Although Nissan has already made a pretty decent effort with locating the 370z intakes, improvements have been made by the various tuning houses across the world, providing the maximum essential gains.

If you’re worried about taking on the task yourself, and wondering what it’s going to entail, then this great video from ‘Danny Z’ shows you how to fit the ‘Drifted Choice’ Stillen Gen 3 to your Z.

Still unsure whether an intake for your 370z is going to be worth the effort? Let ‘Bros FOURR Speed’ help you with your decision.

Now that you’ve decided that you want to get the most out of your Z with a CAI, we’ve also reviewed plenty of other 370z tuning upgrades to help you build the ultimate weapon.

From breathing upgrades such as Test Pipes, Headers and Exhausts, right the way through to Coilovers and Spoilers, our comprehensive guides will point you to the very best products, from budget to premium.

If you’re planning the ultimate build, then Forced Induction is undoubtedly going to be the perfect route, and we’ve reviewed the best Superchargers and Turbo Kits on the market to help you create the ideal package.

big smoke 370z tandem drift

Nissan 370z intake line-up

For now, let’s take a look at the best cold air intake kits on the market for your Nissan 370z.

To find out more about any of these products, just click on the product name or photo.

Jim Wolf Technology Dual Pop Charger 370z Intake

jim wolf technology 370z intake

Our comment: JWT has released some fantastic products to the Z market, and their Dual Pop Charger Intake System has become a popular choice over the years.

This kit is one of the ‘short ram’ options, which means that it places the intakes a little closer to the engine than we’d like, which means it’s somewhat limiting the true potential of the cold air gains directly from the front of the car.

There are options available to reduce the downside of this, such as heat shields and reflective tape. However, we prefer the long tube options to get the most impressive gains.

Despite that, this kit has gained itself plenty of delighted fans over the years. You can expect some noticeable sound improvements, especially when paired with an exhaust, to allow the engine to scream!

As for performance, there may be a few additional horses to be unleashed, JTW claims 6.5-10hp, but the main gains are going to be in the looks and sound department for this kit.

Manufacturer description: “In 2007 Nissan drastically improved the VQ intake system by adding an extra throttle, so the question was, is there any room for improvement? After a full year of testing JWT got the answer, “YES”, but only with the most efficient Pop-Charger Venturi inlets and hood-sealed heat shields.“

“In addition to a 6.5 to10 WHP improvement, the tone of the engine due to the dual 6” venturis is definitely the most beautiful sound ever heard from a VQ engine!“

Takeda Stage-2 PRO DRY S 370z Intake

afe takeda stage 2 pro 370z intake

Our comment: This is undoubtedly up there with the best kits on the market, and features a unique design which utilizes just one large filter instead of the typical dual-design.

Takeda claims that this intake produced 15hp and 16ft/lb gains with 35% increased airflow over the OEM factory intake.

The main reason that many people opt for this kit over the ‘Drifted Choice’ Stillen G3’s is that there is absolutely no cutting involved, even though the cutting is extremely minimal with the Gen 3’s, so they’re well worth looking at.

Many Gen 3 owners claim that the bending in the pipes to avoid the cutting means that the Gen 3 is capable of increased airflow over this option.

Although many internet forum wars have happened over both of these kits, the primary decision you’ll need to make between the two is whether you’re willing to carry out some trimming to your OEM parts in exchange for the ultimate performance.

Manufacturer description: “This Takeda performance air intake system uses a unique dual flange filter design engineered to maximize surface area and flow. In recent testing this Takeda “Attack” cold air intake produced 15 horsepower and 16 lbs. x ft. torque, while outflowing the factory intake by 35%.“

“The placement of the unique single air filter specifically designed to fit flawlessly in the area in front of the radiator guarantees a supply of cool, high pressure fresh air for maximum power gains. The Takeda philosophy of “no cutting or drilling” is maintained with this intake system, as flexible high resistance silicone couplings are used to pass through existing openings in the radiator core support. Whether for street or race, this is the ultimate intake system for the 370Z.“

Stillen Gen 2 370z Intake

stillen gen 2 370z intake

Our comment: Stillen provide arguably the best 370z kit on the market with their Gen 3, but unfortunately, their Gen 2 falls a little short of the mark.

With a similar price to the Gen 3, the main appeal of this kit is that it features a ‘short ram’ intake, which means it’s a little more convenient to install.

However, this comes at a cost since you’re not gaining the coolest airflow to the engine that the Gen 3 is capable of providing. If you’re purely after looks and noise, then this may well tick your boxes. For performance and maximum potential gains, we’d go with the Gen 3 all day long.

Although this CARB-legal kit is impeccable quality and would undoubtedly be convnient to fit, we’d rather spend a little more time on the initial fitment and reap the long-term rewards that the Gen 3 offers.

Manufacturer description: “STILLEN replaced the restrictive factory air boxes with two (2) dual cone genuine K&N reusable high flow conical air filters. These filters are designed with an integral velocity stack and attach to the newly designed polished aluminum long tubes.“

“Replacing the factory intake tubes with the STILLEN design adds additional horsepower, and a great look for the engine bay. The filters sit inside custom-fitted urethane intake boxes, which ensure no hot engine compartment air gets sucked into the intake tract. This creates a cold air path, and unlike other manufacturers who only partially shield the filter from hot underhood air, STILLEN has fully enclosed the filters and draws on cold air from behind the grille, for optimum performance.“

Stillen Gen 3 Ultra Long Tube 370z Intake

stillen gen 3 370z intake

Our comment: You’ve heard us speaking about Stillen’s Gen 3 kit throughout the guide so far, and quite rightly so, as this is arguably the most exceptional choice available for your 370z.

Yes, it requires minimal trimming to ensure the perfect fit, and if that’s not something that you’re willing to do, then an option like the Takeda above is likely to be perfect for you.

Stillen claims 17.5hp gains from this CARB-legal kit on the 370z, which is the highest ‘proven’ (dyno) gains out there.

Thousands of delighted owners have verified that this is the best choice on the market right now, and it also looks fantastic when installed, combined with the typical quality we’ve come to expect from the industry-leaders over the years.

Having tested more than 50 different variations before coming up with their final design, this shows the attention-to-detail that goes into providing such an impressive product for the market.

In our opinion, this is the ultimate product for performance improvement, and we do not doubt that it’ll leave you grinning from ear-to-ear.

We’ve linked the usual kit in this guide, which needs (very) occasional oiling but provides the best filtration. If you’re looking for a more convenient dry-filter setup, then you can purchase that here.

Manufacturer description: “STILLEN’s continuing dedication to getting the maximum performance from each vehicle has lead to the introduction of the new Generation 3 Ultra Long Tube Intake. This intake has a radically new design that provides dramatically better power than any intake on the market for the VQ37 equipped vehicles. STILLEN’s R&D team went engineered and dyno tested more than 50 variations before being satisfied that this system is the best that can be made for the VQ37 engines.“

“The new Gen 3 Ultra Long Tube Intake places two large K&N filters in front of the radiator. Strategic placement of the filters allow for optimum cold air flow and easy filter removal for cleaning. It features additional polished tubes that pass through the front core support, larger air filters than the Generation 2 unit. On some applications such as the G37 a urethane splash guard is included in the kit to help protect the filter. This is only necessary on vehicles with larger grill openings from the factory. All kits feature a system of varied diameter tubing and steps to maximize air velocity.“

HKS Racing Suction 370z Intake

hks racing suction 370z intake

Our comment: For those of you that love your premium JDM goodies, HKS offers their Racing Suction Kit to the premium end of the market.

This kit does come with a fairly substantial price tag, and due to the location of the filters, you’re unlikely to experience the same gains as you would from the Gen 3 kit above.

If you’re looking to show off your parts under the hood, then this is one of the better options out there.

Other benefits from this HKS kit is that it looks fantastic, requires no trimming, and is convenient to install.

It’ll certainly earn you some JDM scene points, but we’d personally be looking to add some heat shields to this setup to avoid sucking in the warmer temperatures.

Overall, a brilliant alternative option for the market, but we feel that more can be had for your buck with Stillen’s Gen 3.

Manufacturer description: “Opt for the high-end intake kit from HKS : the Racing Suction. It replaces the stock intake hoses and air filter for maximum filtration without compromise, removing the original air filter box. Installation is simple as it is “plug & play/bolt on”, without any modification necessary.“

“Each kit comes with a high performance “mushroom” filter (up to 30% increase in air flow), hoses and aluminium brackets specially adapted for your vehicle, and all necessary accessories for installation (joiners, clips, bolts, etc.). The rigid aluminium hoses are designed to offer minimal pressure loss and help your boost pressure increase quicker. Indeed, the stock rubber hoses often contract with the vacuum created by the compressor, severely reducing performance.“

HKS Super Hybrid 370z Intake

hks drop in panel filter 370z intake

Our comment: We mentioned previously that although the factory intake on the 370z can be improved, it’s far superior to some of the alternative OEM options from other manufacturers.

For those of you that prefer to stick with the OEM route but are looking to achieve the best possible performance from your stock intake, HKS offers these simple panel filter upgrades for your stock airboxes.

Although you’re not going to see any significant gains, these HKS filters have often come out best when it comes to providing improved airflow against their rivals.

A quick, simple, convenient, and cheap alternative to a full intake system, but the downside is that you won’t experience the potential gains to be had either. If you’re looking to replace your tired OEM filters, then these will certainly be an improvement.

Manufacturer description: “3 layered filter divides, collects intake air and smooths air flow. It enables quick response that is required for sport filter. Newly developed Non-woven fabric is the first layer that collects large dust. Second layer polyurethane filter collects small dust. Thus the new filter has longer life.“

“Joining of each layer was changed from flame lamination to net type joining that does not affect intake air flow. Dry 3 layer structure enables lower resistance. With high strength double frame, strong frame can be used for high horsepower.“

Takeda PDS Stage-2 Polished Short Ram Air 370z Intake

takeda pds stage 2 370z intake

Our comment: Having previously reviewed the hugely popular Takeda intake above, they also offer this short ram intake for those of you that are looking for looks and convenience over performance.

Similarly to the previous short ram intakes we’ve reviewed, these are once again not going to be capable of providing the same cool air as the long tube options on the market.

However, if a short ram ticks the right boxes for you, then this kit would undoubtedly look good under the hood, and Takeda are known for their excellent quality. In that case, it could be a perfect choice!

Manufacturer description: “The Takeda Retain Intake is a short ram air intake intake system. In recent testing this intake produced 9hp and 8lbs. x ft. of torque. Takeda intakes are constructed out of lightweight clear-coat anodized tubing for maximum air flow and a great style.“

“Each intake uses a large 360 degree high flow PRO Dry S air filter for maximum flow, filtration and convenience. The PRO Dry S air filter requires no oils and cleans with simple soap and water. Takeda intakes come complete with all tubing, filters, couplers and hardware for an easy installation. Complete installation in 40 minutes or less.“

Flowmaster Performance 370z Intake – Delta Force

flowmaster performance 370z intake

Our comment: Flowmaster has put an extensive amount of research into providing one of the best, and most popular short ram options on the market.

With substantial heat shields, this means that you get the convenience of a short ram kit with the maximum potential cooling available.

If you’ve made it this far in our guide, you’ll know that we’re relatively biased towards long-tube CAI’s for their performance gains, but as far as short ram kits go, this is one of the best on the market.

Manufacturer description: “Take the performance of your vehicle to the next level with the addition of Flowmaster’s new Delta Force Performance Air Intake system for 2009-19 Nissan 370Z & 2008-13 Infiniti G37 with a 3.7L V6 engine. The Delta Force system contains an ultra-trick looking, custom molded black Cross-Linked Polyethylene (XLPE) high-flow intake tube, black anodized aluminum fittings (when applicable), high quality reinforced silicone couplers and all stainless steel hardware.“

“ Other features include a large diameter high-flow conical shaped 8 layer cotton gauze air filter, which traps more dirt than typical 6 layer designs, a custom-fit black powder-coated air dam with attachment brackets to securely mount the system in place along with soft bumpers to eliminate any metal to metal contact under the hood. The Delta Force Air Filters are serviceable with our new Delta Force cleaning kits which will help outlast your vehicle. Delta Force Performance Air Intakes are NOT currently legal for use or for sale in the State of California.“

AEM Induction 370z Cold Air Intake

aem induction 370z intake

Our comment: AEM offers something a little different with their kit, which sits somewhere in the middle between short ram and long tube, which they claim is capable of providing up to 15hp gains.

This fantastic looking kit is one of the most popular options on the market, mostly for owners that don’t want the inconvenience of trimming or having to remove the bumper for filter maintenance.

One of the best features of this setup is that it utilizes AEM’s Dryflow filters, which can be used up to 100,000 miles without requiring any servicing.

This is a great alternative worth considering for owners that are looking for convenient installation, significant performance gains and great looks combined with low maintenance.

Manufacturer description: “The 21-821DS Performance Cold Air Intake System produces horsepower and torque gains by replacing the restrictive air filter and air intake housing. This air intake system was designed, tuned and dyno-tested to fit specific Nissan 370Z models. This system replaces both the left and right side intakes.“

“The AEM Dryflow synthetic washable air filter does not require oiling and can be used up to 100,000 miles before servicing is needed (depending on driving conditions). The heatshield is a two piece design and also utilizes the factory air ducting. The intake tube is constructed from mandrel bent aluminum and has a durable gray powder coat finish. This air intake system was developed to accommodate the mass air flow sensor and PCV hose.“

Injen SP 370z Cold Air Intake (Non-NISMO)

injen sp 370z intake

Our comment: Injen’s SP kit typically gets mentioned within the Top 3 CAI’s for the 370z, alongside Stillen’s Gen 3 and the Takeda Stage 2 kits.

Like the Takeda kit, this one doesn’t require any trimming, but if you have a NISMO Z, then you’ll want to check out the option below.

Another beneficial aspect with this kit is that the filters can be removed for servicing without the need to remove the front bumper, unlike Stillen’s Gen 3.

If you’re not keen on working on your car, or the inconvenience of removing your bumper once a year, then this could make the Injen a tempting prospect.

Another fantastic option, which quotes 15hp performance gains and is capable of giving the ‘Drifted Choice’ Stillen Gen 3 a run for its money!

If you’re finding the chrome finish a little “blingy”, then make sure you check out the black alternative.

Manufacturer description: “Is your engine choking for air and in need of some additional horsepower? If so, Injen has exciting news for you! The SP series of cold air intakes from Injen Technology will allow your engine to breathe deeper and enhance the performance that you’ve been craving. The SP series of cold air intakes is Injen’s flagship system in their lines of traditional aluminum cold air intake systems.“

“Injen Technology is the world’s first tuned air intake system and holds four patents on the tuning process of an intake system – something no other manufacturer can claim. The SP series of cold air intakes feature many of Injen Technology’s patented tuning process, including MegaRam (MR) Technology, Air Fusion, and many other innovations that keep Injen Technology at the forefront in the performance aftermarket.“

Injen SP 370z Cold Air Intake System (NISMO)

injen sp nismo 370z intake

Our comment: Injen has gone out of the way to create this CAI kit specifically for those of you that are lucky enough to own a NISMO 370z!

If you were to use a non-NISMO Injen CAI, then you’re going to run into issues with the windscreen washer jet bottle. Injen has eliminated this by redesigning the shape and providing you with an alternative that is provided within the kit.

As we stated above, this is a fantastic kit and has been proven to provide gains of up to 13hp and 19lb/ft torque on the NISMO models.

Manufacturer description: “Is your engine choking for air and in need of some additional horsepower? If so, Injen has exciting news for you! The SP series of cold air intakes from Injen Technology will allow your engine to breathe deeper and enhance the performance that you’ve been craving. The SP series of cold air intakes is Injen’s flagship system in their lines of traditional aluminum cold air intake systems.“

“Injen Technology is the world’s first tuned air intake system and holds four patents on the tuning process of an intake system – something no other manufacturer can claim. The SP series of cold air intakes feature many of Injen Technology’s patented tuning process, including MegaRam (MR) Technology, Air Fusion, and many other innovations that keep Injen Technology at the forefront in the performance aftermarket.“

Our winners

We have broken down our 370z intake winners into three categories; budget choice, Drifted choice and premium choice:

Our Drifted 370z Intake Choice

Stillen’s Gen 3 kit is not only the most popular choice on the market among 370z owners, but it has also been born from over 50 variations from Stillen in their quest to provide the ultimate CAI kit to the market.

Our Drifted 370z Intake winner is the Stillen Gen 3 Ultra Long Tube Intake Kit.

Even with the 17.5hp gains, Stillen has managed to keep this kit CARB-legal, which is going to be hugely beneficial for those of you that it affects.

Fantastic looks, impeccable quality, maximum gains, and a reasonable price tag. If you can deal with the thought of some very minimal trimming to your beloved 370z, then this kit will undoubtedly ensure you don’t regret it!

Stillen Gen 3 Ultra Long Tube Intake Kit

stillen gen 3 370z intake

Our Premium 370z Intake Choice

Our Premium 370z Intake winner is the HKS Racing Suction Kit.

JDM goodies often come at a price, and the HKS kit is no exception! It looks fantastic under the hood, and if you’re looking for the ultimate products to show off under the hood at the local meet, then this is going to be a great choice.

HKS Racing Suction Kit

hks racing suction 370z intake

Our Budget 370z Intake Choice

This kit is certainly a close contender with the Stillen Gen 3, and it comes with an excellent price and a unique design to match.

Our Budget 370z Intake winner is the Takeda Stage-3 PRO DRY S Intake System.

For those of you that don’t wish to carry out any trimming to your immaculate engine bay, this could well be the ultimate choice for you. However, if you’re looking for the most impressive performance gains on the market, then we’d recommend going with the Drifted Choice.

Takeda Stage-2 PRO DRY S Intake System

afe takeda stage 2 pro 370z intake

Thank you for reading our Ultimate 370z Intake guide!

We hope that you’re now confident in choosing the perfect intake kit for your 370z to unleash the insane sounds from your V6 powerplant, while also freeing up some vital additional horses under the hood!

Photography credits

We would like to thank the following sources for the use of their images:

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author avatar Written by Joe Terrell Drifted.com founder, motoring journalist and all-round car enthusiast. Read more about Joe and the Drifted team on our about us page.

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