GWM Cannon Exhaust Upgrade Guide | Best Cannon Exhaust Systems in Australia

The best GWM Cannon exhaust upgrade replaces the restrictive factory system with a free-flowing Australian-made stainless steel unit delivering stronger torque, better fuel economy under load and a deeper exhaust note. Whether you're after a DPF-back or turbo-back setup a quality cannon exhaust system transforms how your Cannon performs on road and off.

If you've spent any time behind the wheel of a GWM Cannon you already know it's one of the more capable utes on the Australian market. The 2.0L turbo diesel punches well for its size, the ride is comfortable, and the off-road credentials are genuine. But like most factory exhaust systems the stock setup is built around compliance and cost not performance.

The good news? A GWM Cannon exhaust upgrade is one of the most straightforward modifications you can make and the results are immediately noticeable. This guide covers everything you need to know from system types and muffler choices to cannon exhaust price ranges and what to look for when reading a cannon exhaust review.

Why Upgrade Your GWM Cannon Exhaust?

The factory GWM Cannon exhaust is designed to meet emissions targets and noise regulations at the lowest possible cost. That means restrictive pipework, a muffled note and back pressure that limits what the turbo diesel can actually do. Here's what a proper cannon exhaust upgrade delivers in the real world:

• More torque where you need it — Reducing exhaust back pressure lets the turbo spool faster and more freely. You'll feel it most when towing a trailer, climbing a steep track or pulling away loaded up. The throttle response sharpens noticeably.
• Better fuel economy — A freer-flowing exhaust means the engine works less hard to push spent gases out. Many Cannon owners report improved fuel consumption, particularly on highway runs and long touring trips.
• A deeper, more purposeful exhaust note — The stock system is deliberately muted. A quality aftermarket cannon exhaust muffler gives your Cannon a sound that matches its character deep and purposeful not obnoxious.
• Long-term durability — Factory exhausts does not suit Australian conditions. Coastal salt air, red dust, creek crossings and extreme heat they corrode faster than you'd expect. A 409 stainless system simply lasts longer and holds up to the GWM Cannon exhaust self cleaning DPF regen cycles without degrading.

GWM Cannon 4x4 Exhaust Systems — What Are Your Options?

When it comes to GWM Cannon 4x4 exhaust systems, there are two main configurations worth understanding before you buy:

DPF-Back Exhaust

A DPF-back system replaces everything from the diesel particulate filter outlet through to the tailpipe including the mid pipe, cannon exhaust silencer and tip. This is the most popular upgrade for GWM Cannon owners because it delivers meaningful performance and sound improvements while keeping the DPF and turbo plumbing intact. It's road-legal, straightforward to install and suits daily drivers, tourers and tow vehicles equally well.

Our GWM Cannon DPF-back exhaust system is engineered specifically for the NPW 2.0L GW4D20M turbo diesel (2020–2025) and bolts on without modification.

Turbo-Back Exhaust

A turbo-back system replaces the entire exhaust path from the turbocharger outlet through to the tailpipe. This delivers the greatest possible reduction in back pressure and the most significant performance gains but it's a more involved installation and has road-use compliance implications depending on your state. It's the choice for serious performance builds and dedicated off-road setups.

Browse our full GWM Cannon exhaust systems collection to compare both options side by side.

Cannon Exhaust Muffler and Silencer — Which Sound Profile Is Right for You?

The cannon exhaust muffler has more influence over your driving experience than most people realise. It's not just about noise the muffler design shapes the engine note, affects back pressure and determines how comfortable the cabin is on long highway runs.

Here's how the main types compare:

• Straight-through / open-flow mufflers — Produce a louder, more aggressive tone. Gas moves through with minimal restriction, which maximises flow. Great for off-road use and those who want the exhaust to be heard, but can become tiring on long highway stretches.
• Chambered or resonator-equipped mufflers — Deliver a deeper, more refined note with less cabin drone at highway speeds. These suit tourers and daily drivers who want the performance benefits without the constant soundtrack. Ideal if you're spending long hours on the road.

Not sure which suits you? Our team can walk you through the sound profile of each option before you order something you simply can't get from a generic online listing or a YouTube clip recorded on a different vehicle entirely.

What Makes a Quality Cannon Exhaust System?

The performance exhausts market is full of products that look the part but don't deliver. Here's what actually separates a quality cannon exhaust from the cheaper alternatives:

Pipe Diameter and Flow Design

Pipe sizing matters more than most people realise. The factory system is deliberately undersized to reduce cost and meet noise targets. A properly engineered aftermarket system uses the right diameter for the engine's output improving exhaust gas velocity and reducing the back pressure that limits turbo performance. Smooth mandrel bends (rather than crush bends) keep flow consistent through every corner of the system.

409 Stainless Steel Construction

Our systems are built from 409 grade stainless steel the right material for a turbocharged diesel exhaust in Australian conditions. It handles the heat cycles of the GW4D20M engine, resists corrosion from coastal salt air and creek crossings and holds up to the thermal stress of GWM Cannon exhaust self cleaning DPF regeneration cycles. Mild steel systems with a coating might look fine in the box, but they rarely last more than a few years in real-world Australian use.

Australian-Made Fit

A cannon exhaust built in Australia is engineered for Australian delivered vehicles. Imported systems are often made to suit multiple markets and may require modifications to fit correctly. Our systems are designed and manufactured here, so they bolt straight on no cutting, no welding, no guesswork.

Cannon Exhaust Price — What Should You Expect to Pay?

The cannon exhaust price varies depending on system type, material, and brand. Here's a general guide to help you compare:

• Mild steel DPF-back systems — Lower upfront cost, but corrosion is a real issue in Australian conditions. Many owners find themselves replacing these within a few years which erodes the initial saving quickly.
• 409 stainless DPF-back systems — Higher initial investment but significantly longer service life. For most Cannon owners this is the sweet spot between cost and durability.
• Stainless turbo-back systems — The most comprehensive upgrade with the highest upfront cost. For serious performance builds the gains justify the spend.

A quality GWM Cannon exhaust upgrade is one of the better investments you can make in your ute. It's a one time upgrade that pays dividends every time you drive whether that's the daily commute, a weekend tow or 2,000 kilometres into the outback.

How to Read a Cannon Exhaust Review

Before you buy, it's worth spending time on real owner feedback rather than manufacturer marketing. A useful cannon exhaust review should cover:

• Fitment — Did it bolt on cleanly without modification? Fitment issues are a common complaint with imported systems not engineered for Australian spec vehicles.
• Long-term durability — How does it hold up after 12–24 months of real world use? Corrosion, weld failures and bracket cracks are the things to watch for.
• Actual sound and performance — Does the real world result match what was advertised? Look for reviews that describe the driving experience not just the installation.
• DPF compatibility — For DPF-back systems, check whether owners have experienced any DPF regen issues or warning lights post-installation. A well-engineered system won't interfere with the DPF's self-cleaning cycle.

Cannon Exhaust — What to Know

If you've been researching the Cannon exhaust options you'll find a range of aftermarket systems available for the GWM Cannon platform. When comparing any brand, apply the same criteria: pipe diameter, material quality, fitment specificity and warranty coverage. A 5-year warranty is the benchmark if a supplier can't back their product with meaningful coverage that tells you something about their confidence in it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best exhaust upgrade for a GWM Cannon?

For most GWM Cannon owners a DPF-back exhaust system in 409 stainless steel delivers the best combination of performance, durability, and road legality. It's the most practical GWM Cannon exhaust upgrade for daily drivers, tourers and tow vehicles.

Will a cannon exhaust upgrade improve fuel economy?

Yes by reducing exhaust back pressure, the engine operates more efficiently. Many owners report improved fuel consumption, particularly under load or on long highway runs. Results vary depending on driving style and conditions.

Is the GWM Cannon exhaust self-cleaning DPF compatible?

A quality GWM Cannon exhaust self cleaning DPF compatible system is engineered to work with the factory DPF regen cycle without triggering warning lights or interfering with the process. Always confirm DPF compatibility before purchasing any aftermarket exhaust for the GWM Cannon.

What's the difference between a cannon exhaust muffler and silencer?

The terms are often used interchangeably. A cannon exhaust silencer or muffler is the component that controls exhaust sound. Different internal designs straight-through, chambered or resonator-equipped produce different sound profiles and have varying effects on back pressure and performance.

How much does a GWM Cannon exhaust cost?

The cannon exhaust price depends on system type and material. Stainless DPF-back systems represent the best long term value for Australian conditions. Contact our team or browse our online store for current pricing.

Ready to Upgrade Your GWM Cannon Exhaust?

At Outback Exhausts, every system we sell is designed and manufactured in Australia from 409 grade stainless steel, backed by a 5-year warranty and built specifically for the GWM Cannon. We stock our full range and dispatch within one business day and our team is here to help if you have any questions about fitment or system selection.

Browse our GWM Cannon 4x4 exhaust systems or get in touch with our team to find the right setup for your ute.