7 IE Performance Mods to Unleash Your Audi A4/S4 B9

The Audi A4 and S4 B9 platforms offer a fantastic blend of luxury and performance straight from the factory. However, for those seeking to elevate their driving experience to the next level, Integrated Engineering (IE) provides a comprehensive range of performance modifications. IE is a well-regarded name in the Audi tuning world, known for its rigorously engineered and thoroughly tested products.

Here are 7 key IE performance modifications that can significantly enhance your Audi A4 or S4 B9:

1. IE Performance ECU Tune:

This is often the first and most impactful modification for any turbocharged car. An ECU (Engine Control Unit) tune remaps the engine's software to optimize parameters like boost pressure, fuel delivery, and ignition timing.

• Benefit: IE's ECU tunes are designed to deliver substantial gains in horsepower and torque. For the B9 A4 2.0T, Stage 1 tunes can increase output to around 314 HP and 396 lb-ft of torque on 93 octane fuel. The B9 S4 3.0T can see even more dramatic increases, with Stage 1 tunes reaching approximately 446 HP and 548 lb-ft of torque on 93 octane. This translates to significantly improved acceleration, reduced turbo lag, and a more responsive throttle.
• Details: IE offers various stages of tunes catering to different levels of modification. They also provide octane-specific maps and even TrueFlex ethanol tuning options for maximum performance. Flashing the ECU can often be done at home using IE's POWERlink cable and their mobile or desktop application.

2. IE Performance TCU Tune:

For Audi models equipped with an automatic transmission (like the B9 A4 and S4), a TCU (Transmission Control Unit) tune is a crucial complement to an ECU tune.

• Benefit: An IE TCU tune optimizes the transmission's shift points, shift speeds, and torque limits. This leads to faster and more precise gear changes, maximizing the benefits of the increased engine power. It can also improve launch control functionality and remove factory torque limiters, allowing the engine to deliver its full potential.
• Details: IE offers TCU tunes specifically designed to work in harmony with their ECU tunes. This ensures seamless integration and optimal performance of the entire powertrain.

Shop IE Tuning here:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/collections/ie-tune

IE A4 B9 ECU/TCU Tune:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/products/ie-vw-audi-2-0t-fsi-k04-performance-ecu-tune-fits-mk6-golf-r-8j-tts?_pos=1&_sid=58b9c65b1&_ss=r

IE S4/S5 B9 Tune:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/products/integrated-engineering-recirculating-catch-can-kit-golf-mk7-mk7-5-2015-copy?_pos=1&_sid=9e2fec0af&_ss=r

3. IE Cold Air Intake System:

Upgrading the factory air intake system with an IE cold air intake allows the engine to breathe more freely by providing a less restrictive and cooler source of air.

• Benefit: A high-flow intake can lead to modest horsepower and torque gains, improved throttle response, and a more aggressive engine sound. IE intakes are often designed to work in conjunction with the OEM air scoop to maximize cold air flow.
• Details: IE offers various intake designs, including open-element and enclosed systems, often featuring high-quality filters for optimal filtration and airflow.

Shop IE Intake Systems here:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/collections/ie-intakes

IE A4 B9 Intake:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/products/ie-audi-b9-a4-a5-2-0t-cold-air-intake?_pos=1&_sid=929166a4c&_ss=r

IE S4 B9 Intake:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/products/integrated-engineering-ie-polymer-air-intake-system-for-audi-b9-b9-5-s4?_pos=1&_sid=d3f015711&_ss=r

4. IE Intercooler Upgrade:

The intercooler is responsible for cooling the compressed air from the turbocharger before it enters the engine. A more efficient intercooler reduces intake air temperatures (IATs), which is crucial for maintaining optimal performance, especially under hard driving conditions.

• Benefit: An upgraded IE intercooler minimizes heat soak, allowing the engine to consistently produce maximum power. Lower IATs also contribute to engine longevity and can improve fuel efficiency. IE offers front-mount intercooler (FMIC) systems designed for maximum cooling capacity.
• Details: IE intercoolers often feature larger cores and optimized flow paths compared to the factory units, ensuring significant cooling improvements.

Shop Intercoolers here:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/collections/fmic-systems

IE A4/S4 B9 Intercooler:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/products/ie-performance-ecu-tunes-for-audi-b9-3-0t-s4-s5-sq5-copy?_pos=1&_sid=fef17e5be&_ss=r

5. IE Downpipe:

The downpipe connects directly to the turbocharger and plays a significant role in expelling exhaust gases. A less restrictive aftermarket downpipe improves exhaust flow, reducing backpressure on the turbocharger.

• Benefit: Upgrading to an IE downpipe (often requiring a Stage 2 ECU tune) can unlock significant horsepower and torque gains, especially in the mid-range and top-end. It also contributes to a more aggressive exhaust note.
• Details: IE offers downpipes with high-flow catalytic converters or catless options for maximum performance (check local regulations regarding emissions).

Shop Downpipes here:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/collections/downpipes-exhaust-systems

IE A4 B9 Downpipe:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/products/ie-b8-5-gen-3-b9-a4-a5-performance-catted-downpipe?_pos=1&_sid=d85f75d5c&_ss=r

IE S4 B9 Downpipe:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/products/ecs-tuning-b9-s4-3-0t-center-x-pipe-copy?_pos=1&_sid=daf0828ef&_ss=r

6. IE Cat-Back Exhaust System:

A cat-back exhaust system replaces the exhaust piping from the catalytic converter(s) to the rear of the car.

• Benefit: While primarily focused on improving the exhaust sound, a well-designed IE cat-back system can also offer slight performance gains due to reduced restriction. It allows for a deeper, more aggressive, or refined exhaust note, depending on the system chosen.
• Details: IE offers various exhaust configurations and tip styles to suit different preferences.

7. IE Turbo Inlet Pipe:

The turbo inlet pipe is the connection between the air intake system and the turbocharger. Upgrading to a larger diameter, less restrictive IE turbo inlet pipe can further improve airflow to the turbo.

• Benefit: A more efficient turbo inlet pipe can reduce turbo lag and improve overall turbocharger efficiency, leading to slightly better throttle response and potentially small power gains, especially when combined with other intake modifications.
• Details: IE designs their turbo inlet pipes to have a smooth internal surface and optimized shape for maximum airflow.

Shop IE B9 S4 Inlet pipe:

https://www.vaggarage.com.au/products/integrated-engineering-ie-audi-b9-s4-turbo-inlet-pipe?_pos=2&_sid=8b9dc8bb6&_ss=r

General Benefits of Performance Modifications:

Beyond the specific benefits of each IE mod, performance upgrades for your Audi A4 or S4 B9 can offer several general advantages:

• Enhanced Driving Experience: Increased power and torque make the car feel more engaging and exciting to drive.
• Improved Acceleration and Passing Power: Makes merging onto highways and overtaking other vehicles safer and more effortless.
• More Responsive Throttle: Provides a more direct connection between your foot and the engine's output.
• Personalization: Allows you to tailor your car's performance and sound to your preferences.
• Increased Vehicle Value (to the right buyer): While not always guaranteed, performance modifications from reputable brands like IE can be attractive to enthusiasts.

Important Considerations:

• Tuning Stages: Pay attention to IE's tuning stage requirements, as some modifications (like a downpipe) necessitate a specific ECU tune stage.
• Compatibility: Ensure that the chosen modifications are specifically designed for your Audi A4 or S4 B9 model year and engine.
• Professional Installation: While some IE mods are DIY-friendly, others, like exhaust systems and downpipes, may benefit from professional installation.
• Emissions Regulations: Be aware of local emissions regulations, especially when considering downpipes with high-flow cats or catless options.
• Warranty: Understand that aftermarket performance modifications may potentially affect your factory warranty.

By strategically selecting and installing Integrated Engineering performance modifications, you can transform your Audi A4 or S4 B9 into an even more exhilarating and capable machine, perfectly tailored to your driving desires.