Id like to chime in here. I'll concede that the stock box is probably a better sealed option. I have been one of the few that went the K&N route b/c of the looks vs the airaid. I have found that the K&N gives a better "woooosh" sound on turbo spool up and according to torque it seems to keep the measured IATs equal or slightly below (by 0.1-0.4 degrees lower) than ambient while in motion.
I have zero experience with airaid and zero experience (measured with torque) on the stock box.
I enjoy the sound and looks of the K&N intake better than the stock or airaid.
The "heat soak" is definitely there. If I idle for more than a few minutes the IATs definitely get higher than the ambient temps, but I think that's a small trade off for the sound. To be honest im anal about idling, id rather just sit with the car off than idling on.
Id like to think that the K&N is a great platform to mod like mike (BPD) has done with his (non K&N setup despite the similar base looks) custom intake to seek colder air options.
/cheers
P.S. I demand beer for my opinions,.........or else.
