Installing aftermarket air filter on my 202BHP Maruti S-Cross

I've heard good things about the HPI Megamax dry cotton type air filter installed on a Stage 3 VW Polo 1.6 TDI and, hence, decided to go ahead with it.

BHPian Dr.Naren recently shared this with other enthusiasts.

HPI Megamax Air Filter Installed!

The OE airbox and intake design in S-Cross 1.6 is restrictive and also sucks in hot air. I had to choose between cold air intake or something which will offer better flow. I have a massive Garrett intercooler and thought IAT wouldn't be much of a concern if I install an open air filter in the engine bay.

My friend had installed BMC DIA in his stage 3 S-Cross 1.6 along with routing of intake hose to suck in cooler air. It was decent. My only concern was oiling the BMC filter. AM racing told me about HPI dry cotton type air filter and it doesn't need to be oiled. It's also priced much lower compared to BMC DIA. I also heard good things about this filter installed in a stage 3 Polo 1.6 TDI. I finally decided to go ahead with HPI.

Installation was done at Engineering exponents Bangalore. They did a very neat job. Silicone hoses, clamps were used.

I have driven around 1000 km post HPI filter and am impressed with the outcome.

• Low end: Very good difference. This was really surprising as I was expecting a difference mainly at the top end. I guess the OE airbox is restrictive and HPI made a significant difference here. The car was pulling from even 800-900 rpm in 3rd gear, do note this is a stage 3 car with a bigger turbo.
• Mid and top-end: It feels nice, engine is revving better.
• Throttle response has become sharp.
• Fuel economy: I see at least 5 per cent improvement, really didn't expect this. I will update on this again after driving more.
• IAT: It is the same as the stock setup. Thankfully IAT has not increased as the stock intake was also sucking in hot air.
• MAF: Peak MAF has gone up by ~8 g / s which signifies an improvement in power.
• Sound: There is hardly any difference on full throttle runs. I get BOV type sounds once in a while during gear shifts or half throttle driving.
• Snapshot from HPI India Instagram page regarding the features and cleaning.

• Price: Rs. 8300 (HP3FC-70) + Rs. 3000 (installation).
• Dyno testing: Planned next month. Since there is an increase in peak MAF, I am confident that the power level is up.

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