1) These downpipes have high-flow cats.
2) He experienced no exhaust smell. I've driven the car many times and have never noticed a smell. If these were catless, it would be different.
3) He never got a CEL.
Here is a link to some information on these:
APR Cast Downpipe Exhaust System for the 4.0 TFSI (goapr.com.mt)