What Is a Top Mount Intercooler and Why It Matters

A top mount intercooler sits directly on top of your engine, using incoming air from the bonnet scoop to cool the charged air from your turbo before it enters the intake manifold. Cooler air means denser oxygen, and denser oxygen means better combustion. This means you get more power, better throttle response, and greater reliability under load. It’s a simple but smart bit of engineering that makes a huge difference, especially for turbocharged Subarus and performance 4WDs.

At Empire Performance, we’re all about getting the most out of your setup without overcomplicating things. Our top mount intercoolers are built for Australian conditions, ready for anything from the daily drive to the next track day. Compared to a front mount intercooler, a top mount offers shorter piping, less turbo lag, and a much cleaner install. For many drivers, that balance of performance and practicality makes it the perfect choice.

Our kits are designed with quality and ease of installation in mind. Every Empire Performance top mount intercooler includes a premium bar-and-plate core for maximum cooling, a silicone Y-pipe for even airflow, and a hood splitter that directs fresh air right across the surface. That means lower intake temps, consistent power delivery, and no fuss.

Easy Installation and Real Performance Gains

Upgrading to a top mount intercooler doesn’t have to be a workshop-only job. In fact, most Empire Performance kits are designed for a straightforward DIY install. With the silicone Y-pipe, clamps, and hood splitter included, you’ve got everything you need in the box. The design keeps your setup neat and compact, and since it mounts directly over the engine, you don’t need to modify your front bar or run extra piping. That means less time fitting and more time driving.

Once installed, the difference is immediate. The upgraded core provides a larger cooling surface area, helping to reduce intake air temperatures and minimise heat soak. This not only improves performance on a hot day but also keeps your power consistent across repeated pulls or long climbs. Whether you’re chasing better turbo efficiency or just a more responsive throttle, the Empire Performance top mount intercooler delivers noticeable gains you can feel on the road.

Our intercoolers are engineered to work seamlessly with popular Subaru models — from WRX to Forester and everything in between. They’re tough enough to handle high boost levels and aftermarket tuning, making them the perfect foundation for your next performance upgrade.

Built to Last and Made for Aussie Conditions

When you’re investing in performance parts, durability matters just as much as power. That’s why we build every Empire Performance intercooler using high-grade aluminium and bar-and-plate construction. It’s designed to withstand Australia’s heat, dust, and harsh conditions without warping, leaking, or losing efficiency over time.

Maintenance is minimal too. Keeping your intercooler in top shape is as simple as checking it during routine servicing and giving it a clean if you notice debris or buildup around the scoop. The black powder-coated finish not only looks great under the bonnet but also provides extra corrosion resistance for long-term reliability.

We’re proud to back our intercoolers with solid warranties and support. At Empire Performance, we stand by every product we sell, because we know our customers expect performance that lasts. If you’re chasing cooler temps, consistent power, and a setup that’s built for Aussie roads, our top mount intercoolers tick every box.

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