Why Stage 3 Motorsports Loves the AWE Exhaust on the F-150 (EcoBoost & 5.0L)

Upgrading your truck’s exhaust system is one of the most impactful mods you can make—both for performance and personality. And when it comes to choosing the right system, Stage 3 Motorsports knows what works and what doesn't. After years of installing and testing countless exhausts on both EcoBoost and 5.0L F-150s, one brand consistently stands out: AWE.

Whether you're rolling with a twin-turbo EcoBoost or a naturally aspirated 5.0L Coyote V8, the AWE 0FG Exhaust System delivers the sound, quality, and performance our team and customers love.

Here’s why Stage 3 Motorsports puts AWE at the top of the list—for both engines.

1. No Drone – Regardless of Engine

Drone is a universal deal-breaker, no matter what engine you’re running. Whether it's the twin-turbo V6 or the deep-throated V8, AWE’s 180 Technology® does its job: giving you that aggressive tone without the ear-fatiguing drone during cruise.

For EcoBoost owners, this is crucial since turbocharged engines can amplify high-frequency tones. AWE balances this with tuned resonators and carefully calculated muffler geometry.

For 5.0L V8 owners, who typically want that classic deep growl, AWE enhances the natural rumble while keeping it refined inside the cabin.

Whether you’ve got boost or displacement, the AWE experience is smooth, aggressive, and daily-drivable.

2. Perfect Fit and Finish for Any F-150

At Stage 3, we install dozens of exhaust systems every year—and fitment issues are unfortunately common. Not with AWE. Their systems for both EcoBoost and 5.0L trucks are precision-engineered for direct bolt-on fitment.

No cutting, no modification, just a seamless install.

AWE tailors each 0FG system for specific engine types and cab configurations. Whether you're running a SuperCrew 3.5L or a SuperCab 5.0L, the fit is OEM-tight and tip alignment is spot-on.

Plus, AWE offers multiple exit configurations:

• Dual rear exit
• Single side exit
• BashGuard™ for off-roaders (available on select models)

Each setup uses high-quality hangers and hardware, so it fits snug and stays put—even under hard driving.

3. Built with the Best Components—Across All Platforms

No matter what engine you have, you’re getting a system built from T304L stainless steel—far superior to the 409-grade steel many competitors use. AWE doesn’t skimp on materials or welds, and it shows in both durability and looks.

These systems are mandrel-bent, TIG-welded, and built in the USA. Mufflers are tuned for each engine specifically, so the 5.0L version brings out that V8 tone, while the EcoBoost version enhances turbo bark without the rasp.

From trail rigs to pavement pounders, Stage 3 customers consistently report AWE exhausts holding up through hard use, weather, and time.

4. Engine-Specific Sound Tuning – V6 and V8 Done Right

The tone you want from a 3.5L EcoBoost isn’t the same as what you expect from a 5.0L V8—and AWE gets that. Instead of using one-size-fits-all mufflers, AWE tunes each system to the specific engine’s sound profile.

For EcoBoost Owners:

Expect a deep, turbo-enhanced tone that’s assertive but not raspy. Cold starts have a clean rumble, and WOT acceleration produces a snappy growl. Cabin noise is controlled, even with dual exit tips.

For 5.0L Owners:

AWE takes that already-muscular V8 note and elevates it. The system brings out the Coyote’s rich, throaty character—classic V8 with a modern, refined edge. It’s loud when you want it, subtle when you don’t.

Check out our in-depth Stage 3 review of the 3.5L V6 EcoBoost in the video below.

5. Configurable for Any Build Style

One of our favorite things about AWE exhausts is how flexible they are. Whether you're building a street truck, an overlander, or a daily driver, there’s an AWE setup to match:

• Dual Rear Exit – Balanced, aggressive, clean
• Single Side Exit – OEM-style but better
• BashGuard™ – Tucks tips away for off-roading

6. Stage 3’s Trusted Brand for Real-World Use

AWE isn’t just a premium brand on paper—it’s a trusted brand in our shop and with our customers. We’ve run AWE exhausts on our own EcoBoost and 5.0L project trucks and consistently recommend them to anyone who wants:

• Top-tier build quality
• No-drone cabin experience
• True engine tone without gimmicks
• A system that just plain works

Their customer service, detailed instructions, and lifetime warranty make them one of our most reliable performance partners.

Final Thoughts: AWE + Any F-150 = Sound & Performance You’ll Love

Whether you're running the punchy twin-turbo EcoBoost or the brawny 5.0L V8, the AWE 0FG Exhaust delivers where it counts: sound, performance, fitment, and long-term quality.

At Stage 3 Motorsports, we don’t just sell AWE—we run it, test it, and recommend it confidently for both platforms. It’s one of the few systems that delivers everything you want without compromises.

Ready to wake up your truck? This is the exhaust system that gets it done—whichever F-150 you drive.