Which intake component is responsible for directing air into the engine cylinders?

The intake manifold plays a critical role in an engine’s operation by distributing the air-fuel mixture to each of the engine's cylinders. It is designed with a series of runners or passages that ensure an even flow of the air-fuel mixture across all cylinders, which is vital for optimal engine performance and efficiency.

The design and shape of the intake manifold also help in promoting the proper airflow dynamics, which can enhance the engine’s response and power output. In various engine designs, the intake manifold can also assist in managing things like air temperature and pressure, further impacting performance.

While the throttle body regulates the amount of air entering the engine and the air filter cleans the incoming air, the intake manifold is specifically tasked with directing that air into the cylinders, making it the component that fulfills the question’s requirement most directly. The turbocharger, meanwhile, is used to force more air into the intake manifold but does not itself direct air into the cylinders.

Thus, the intake manifold is the key component responsible for directing air to the engine cylinders, ensuring that each cylinder receives the right amount of air needed for combustion.