K&N 19-24 Dodge Ram 1500 NextGen Cold Air Intake - Gains Without Tune

In this review of the K&N NextGen cold air intake for the 2019-2024 Dodge Ram 1500 5.7L V8, the bottom line is simple: drivers who want noticeable horsepower and torque gains without changing their factory tune will find real value here. Installation is straightforward and can be completed in under an hour, and the system delivers a throatier, Hemi-like sound while avoiding cruising drone. This review focuses on measured performance gains, build quality, and daily-driving practicality to help Ram owners decide if the NextGen intake is the right upgrade.

Key Features

• Dyno-Proven Performance: Delivers a guaranteed increase in horsepower and torque on the engine's stock tune, producing measurable gains without additional tuning.
• NextGen Airbox: Enlarged fresh air inlet and protective air box reduce inlet temperatures and limit contaminant exposure for more consistent power.
• Oversized Air Filter: A larger, radius-entry filter increases surface area for improved airflow and up to 100,000 miles between services under normal highway use.
• Large-Diameter Tube: CAD-designed HDPE intake tube with air channels raises airspeed and total airflow, contributing to the stated ~19.94 hp and ~19.93 lb-ft gains.
• Quick-Lock Installation: Filter snap-in and single-clamp sealing bead simplify fitment so owners can install the system in about 45-60 minutes with minimal hardware.
• No-Hassle Warranty: Backed by a lifetime limited warranty and designed to preserve the factory warranty, with USA-based support.

Who It's For

The K&N NextGen intake is best for Ram 1500 owners with the 5.7L V8 who want a straightforward bolt-on performance upgrade that increases horsepower and torque without a tune, and who appreciate a deeper intake sound during acceleration. It suits daily drivers who also tow or haul, since the sealed airbox helps lower inlet temps and the washable filter reduces maintenance frequency.

Drivers looking for the last edge of performance, extensive engine calibration, or parts for modified forced-induction setups should look elsewhere; this intake is engineered for stock-tune drivability and preserved factory compatibility rather than extreme, custom-tuned power goals.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Noticeable horsepower and torque gains on stock tune with a confident, throaty intake sound.
• Easy, roughly 45-60 minute install thanks to Quick-Lock filter and minimal mounting hardware.
• Durable HDPE tube and oversized filter design offer improved airflow and long filter service intervals.
• Backed by a lifetime limited warranty and USA-based support for peace of mind.

Cons

• While louder during acceleration, it does change intake character which may not suit those wanting a strictly stock sound.
• Performance gains are on-stock tune; owners seeking greater gains will need additional tuning or modifications.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The K&N NextGen cold air intake is a practical, well-engineered upgrade for Ram 1500 5.7L owners who want reliable horsepower and torque increases without sacrificing daily drivability. It pairs a sealed airbox and large filter with a CAD-designed tube to improve airflow and reduce inlet heat, and the simple installation plus long filter intervals make it a good value for most owners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this intake require an engine tune?
No, the intake is dyno-proven to provide gains on the factory tune and does not require additional tuning for the stated increases.

How often will the air filter need service?
The oversized washable filter can allow up to 100,000 miles between services under normal highway driving conditions, depending on driving environment.

Does the intake change sound or cause drone?
The intake gives a throaty, Hemi-like sound during acceleration; customers report minimal to no drone at cruising speeds.