i30N PFLTube and Fin Intercooler Upgrade

We felt that there was a bit of a gap in the market for a cost-effective high-performing tube-and-fin intercooler for people who want the best possible cooling when driving hard on the track.

After thorough testing we are proud to present our Cherry Tuning intercooler!

We have done extensive testing both on the dyno and at the race track. While performance is similar on the dyno to the majority of the existing intercoolers on the market, we have found that intake temps (as a difference from ambient) were consistently 3-5 degrees cooler than any other intercooler option that we've tested - all at a substantially lower price point!

Why tube and fin?

For race track applications, tube-and-fin intercoolers offer significant advantages, primarily due to their lighter weight compared to bar-and-plate designs . This weight reduction, often around 30% or even up to half in some cases, directly benefits a race car's handling and acceleration . A heavier intercooler at the front of the vehicle can negatively impact weight distribution, leading to understeer and reduced responsiveness . The lighter tube-and-fin design mitigates this, allowing for quicker turn-in and improved agility through corners . Furthermore, the decreased overall mass contributes to better acceleration, a crucial factor for achieving faster lap times .   

Beyond weight, the design of tube-and-fin intercoolers is well-suited for the high-speed demands of a race track. Their rounded tubes facilitate smoother airflow, minimizing turbulence and pressure drop, ensuring the engine receives a consistent supply of cool, dense air . While bar-and-plate intercoolers can suffer from heat soak due to their greater thermal mass, tube-and-fin designs excel at dissipating heat rapidly and recovering quickly, which is essential for maintaining consistent engine performance during prolonged periods of high stress on the track . This combination of lighter weight and efficient thermal management, particularly the faster heat recovery, is why tube-and-fin intercoolers are the prevalent choice in various professional motorsport series, demonstrating their superior suitability for the unique challenges of race track driving .