AEM 21-848C Cold Air Intake System

Product Grade
Performance Part
Fit Type
Vehicle Specific Fit

Why Upgrade?

Your 2.4L naturally aspirated engine in the Sonata/Optima is decent, but the stock intake is holding it back: restricted airflow, muted sound, and a feeling that the engine isn’t living up to its potential. The AEM 21-848C intake addresses that by offering:

  • Improved airflow through a mandrel-bent aluminum tube, replacing the restrictive factory path.

  • Sharper throttle response — when you press the accelerator, the engine reacts faster and with more authority.

  • Deeper, more engaging induction sound — you’ll hear the difference, yet still retain daily-driver refinement.

  • High-flow Dryflow filter (oil-free, washable, reusable) designed for longevity (up to ~100,000 miles before cleaning under ideal conditions). AEM Intakes

  • Gunmetal finish on the intake tube — aesthetically clean and performance ready.

 

  • Increased horsepower
  • Heat Shield with Lid.
  • Low restriction aluminum tubing
  • Air filter lasts up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is required (depending on driving conditions)
  • Washable and reusable oil-free filter media

Buy now

SKU: B07H9DYLCD

AEM 21-848C Cold Air Intake System – Vehicle-Specific for Hyundai Sonata & Kia Optima 2.4L (2015-2020, Gunmetal Finish)

Vehicle Fitment

  • Hyundai Sonata 2.4L (2015–2018)

  • Kia Optima 2.4L (2015–2020)

  • Note: This part is listed as not legal for sale or use in California on pollution-controlled vehicles.

 

This Performance Air Intake System allows your engine to breathe more air compared to the restrictive factory air intake housing. It is designed, tuned and dyne-tested to produce more horsepower and torque.

 

According to AEM’s spec sheet, the estimated gain is about +4.4 HP @ ~6000 RPM for this application. AEM Intakes

Key Features

  • Mandrel-bent aluminum intake tube in gunmetal grey.

  • Oversized AEM Dryflow synthetic air filter (oil-free, washable).

  • Heat shield with lid to reduce intake air temperature.

  • Direct-fit for the listed vehicle applications—hardware included for bolt-on installation.

  • Backed by AEM’s lifetime limited warranty.

 

Air enters the system through an oversized AEM Dry flow synthetic washable air filter for outstanding air flow, filtration and performance. The air intake tube is constructed from mandrel-bent aluminum featuring a durable gunmetal gray powder coated finish. A custom shaped heat shield with lid is included.

 

Performance & Daily Use

You’ll notice:

  • Quicker throttle tip-in and better everyday responsiveness.

  • A smoother intake feel across the rev range.

  • Slight horsepower gains and an improved engine tone (especially under load).

  • Excellent fit for daily driving: no sacrifice in comfort, refinement, or practicality.

 

The tapered cylinder shaped AEM Dry flow air filter is made from an oil-free, synthetic filter media that can be used for up to 100,000 miles before cleaning is needed (depending on driving conditions).

 

Installation Overview

Estimated time: ~45-75 minutes with standard tools:

  1. Remove stock airbox and intake tubing.

  2. Install the AEM heat shield and intake tube.

  3. Mount the Dryflow filter, attach all couplers and clamps.

  4. Transfer the MAF sensor, secure everything, check clearances.

  5. Start the engine, verify fitment and enjoy the improved induction sound.

 

This Air Intake System is backed by AEM’s Lifetime Limited Warranty. Some AEM air intakes are not legal for sale or use in California and other states adopting California emission standards, while others are 50 state legal. View the 21-848C vehicle applications to determine the legal status for each vehicle.

What’s in the box

  • Air Filter^Intake Tube^Heat Shield(2)^Edge Trim^Hose(3)^License Plate Frame^Literature Packet^Parts Kit

From the manufacturer

About AEM Performance Electronics

WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE BELIEVE

We create innovative new products that set the standard in the performance aftermarket, delivering high level of product integrity and making advanced technologies accessible to the racing masses.

We believe that a positive customer experience is the key to our success. We achieve this success by delivering products that produce an exceedingly high level of gratification.

We have a deep appreciation for every racer, enthusiast, and distribution partner who chooses to trust our products.

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Specification: AEM 21-848C Cold Air Intake System

Brand

OEM Part Number

Global Trade Identification Number

‎00024844368553

UPC

Model

Item Weight

Product Dimensions

Item model number

Manufacturer Part Number

ASIN ‏

Date First Available

Manufacturer

Dimensions
Weight 4.322732 kg
Dimensions 51.435 × 31.115 × 31.115 cm

5 reviews for AEM 21-848C Cold Air Intake System

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  1. Mr. Browning


    Fit was perfect and install took 30 minutes!! The throttle sound is awesome and I know it’s just me but I swear I felt a little more POWA BABY!

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  2. Kindle Customer


    Opened package to find one of the support mounts bent up had to bend it down thankful it wasn’t in a visible spot other then that installation was decent. As for the sound no difference in idle but when you give it sum gas oh the growl.2019 Kia Optima

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  3. Arthur L. Fernanders


    I have a 2020 Kia Sportage and wanted a cold air filter but couldn’t find one. Once I figured out that the Optima and Sportage had the same engine, it was off to the races from there! I love the extra horsepower and the sound when I feed it more air. It’s a marriage made n heaven! The fit isn’t perfect, but I made the adjustments to keep it n place. I absolutely love it!!

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  4. Javier Munoz


    Easy install and great sound

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  5. E.S.P


    My item came before the date and I was very surprised. I loved this AEM intake and I can feel the hp on my 2016 Sonata Limited. I recommend buying this intake because you can feel the hp and how the sound makes it a lound growling noise after you take off. Bam!P.s – I love it!

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