Vehicles that travel off the beaten path oftentimes require off-road-specific upgrades. When it comes to critical systems such as suspension and tires, that fact is a given. But what about exhaust systems?
Sure, a muffler and piping may seem universal for street or trail, but looking a bit deeper will reveal that some exhaust systems are suited for off-road applications better than others.
Revel, a brand that was established by Tanabe USA, a Japanese manufacturer famed for its high-performance aftermarket upgrades for Japanese sports cars, brings their 30-plus-year expertise into the off-road realm, specifically focusing on Toyota and Lexus trucks.
We examined a system and we were immediately impressed with its craftsmanship and materials. It’s nothing less than you would expect from a “JDM” brand. Let’s take a deeper dive.
According to the manufacturer, the Revel Medallion Trail Hart exhaust system utilizes full SUS304 stainless steel for corrosion resistance with 1.5mm wall thickness piping for increased strength and reduced resonation and unwanted noise. The exhaust systems are mandrel-bent to ensure piping diameter is consistent throughout the system, optimizing exhaust flow, sound flow and overall quality.
Aside from its great looks and excellent build quality, two key features stood out to us. Being a bit more grown-up nowadays, we’re less interested in a loud exhaust note that might set off car alarms and more interested in an understated, deep growl type of sound quality.
The Medallion Trail Hart tests under 93db sound levels under load, giving it a clean and deep tone at all RPM ranges—exactly what we were looking for.
Second, Revel offers a rear section delete in the form of its “Turn Down Pipe” that has been designed to provide a shorter exhaust exit for extra clearance while off-road.
We were really keen on this optional part. Say goodbye to smashed exhaust tips and mufflers; the Turn Down Pipe keeps your exhaust high and out of the way.
As we further upfit our project OVR Toyota Land Cruiser 100 Series (OVR LC100), we took this opportunity to install a unit for evaluation with the help of our friends at RPM Off-Road Garage in Monrovia, California.
Revel’s exhaust system is a direct factory replacement that mounts using the original hanger positions. Some new hardware is included and some of the stock hardware is supposed to be reused.
In the case of the 24-year-old OVR LC100, we had to source some new hardware and gaskets due to those on the truck being too old to reuse. The exhaust was straightforward to install and went in without any issues.
We opted to have the Turn Down Pipe installed in lieu of the exhaust’s rear section with exhaust tip to help keep the OVR LC100’s departure angle unhindered.
In the Land Cruiser this means that the entirety of the exhaust is tucked up high in its belly, well out of the way of any trail obstacles.
At the time of this writing, we’ve driven close to 3,000 miles with the exhaust installed and we’re glad to report that it delivers free-flowing performance, enhanced ground clearance over the stock exhaust and a deep growl that lets the OVR LC100’s V8 sing. Revel Medallion Trail Hart exhaust systems are currently available for many Toyota trucks and SUVs.
Revel USA
Medallion Trail Hart Exhaust System
Applications: Toyota and Lexus Trucks & SUVs
MSRP: From $640 / Turn Down Pipe from $58
URL: revel-usa.com
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