MST Performance VAG MQB EA888.3 Air Intake Kit with Hose & Turbo Inlet Elbow

MST Performance VAG MQB EA888 Gen 3 Air Intake Kit with Hose and Turbo Inlet Elbow

If you want more response and a better sound from your turbocharged VAG engine, this intake kit from MST Performance is a straightforward and effective upgrade. Designed specifically for the EA888 Gen 3 engine – found across a wide range of Volkswagen, Audi, SEAT and Skoda models – it replaces the restrictive factory airbox with a free-flowing induction system that feeds colder, denser air directly to the turbocharger.

The result is improved throttle response (how quickly the engine reacts when you press the accelerator), a more engaging induction sound under load, and real performance gains that MST back with dyno testing. Dyno results show maximum gains of 12-14bhp, though this will vary depending on the vehicle and its state of tune. On a standard car you will notice the difference; on an already-tuned car, this kit complements those modifications well.

What is included in the kit

• Black powder-coated heat shield – helps keep hot engine bay air away from the filter
• Black silicone 3-inch inlet pipe – smooth bore for unrestricted airflow
• 3-inch red dry pleated performance filter – easy to clean and reuse, no oiling required
• Oversize 3-inch turbo inlet elbow – improves the air feed directly into the turbocharger
• Full fitting kit with step-by-step instructions included

Why this kit makes a difference

The standard factory airbox is designed with cost and noise reduction in mind, not outright performance. It limits the volume and speed of air reaching the turbo. This MST kit opens up that restriction with a larger, smoother intake path. The dry pleated filter flows well and is simple to maintain – just remove, clean, and refit. The included turbo inlet elbow is oversized compared to the factory part, which helps the turbocharger spool up (reach full boost) more efficiently.

The powder-coated heat shield is a practical touch. Keeping the filter away from hot engine air means the turbo is consistently fed with cooler, denser air – and denser air means more oxygen for combustion, which is where the performance benefit comes from.

Fitment

This kit is designed for MQB platform VAG vehicles fitted with the EA888 Gen 3 engine – covering popular models across the Volkswagen Golf, Audi A3, SEAT Leon, and Skoda Octavia ranges, among others. Please use the vehicle lookup tool on this site or check the Vehicle Fitment tab to confirm compatibility with your specific model and year before purchasing.