The new-generation Toyota 4Runner and Tacoma share modern truck DNA and are built to go farther with confidence. If you’re shopping lift kits for daily driving, family adventures, and dedicated overlanding, this guide breaks down the best IRONMAN 4X4 suspension systems for each platform, what 2-3 inches of lift actually buys you, and how to choose springs and shocks that match your real-world load.
Our Example Recommendations by Use Case
- 2025 4Runner daily driver and family trips: IM2.5 Monotube for premium on-road comfort with confident control off-road. Pair with the right spring rate for your accessory weight and this would be a great 2025 4Runner lift kit.
- 2025 Tacoma dedicated overlanding rig with constant heavy load: Foam Cell Pro for maximum oil volume, heat control, and durability under weight would be the best lift kit for Tacoma.
Want to explore the full range first? Compare systems here: Suspension Systems overview.
Why 2-3 Inches is the Sweet Spot
A 2-3 inch lift is the most practical range for both 4Runner and Tacoma owners. It allows for larger tires with minimal trimming to increase ground clearance and approach/departure angles, and preserves factory geometry for alignment, CV angles, steering, and braking. You keep daily drivability, towing manners, and predictable handling without chasing add-ons like extended brake lines, extreme steering changes, or major drivetrain mods.
How to Choose Your Springs
Match your coil springs to the weight you carry all the time. Front bumpers, winches, dual batteries, skid plates, rear bumpers, tire carriers, drawers, water, and rooftop tents all add up. If your 4Runner is a weekday commuter with weekend trips, and minimal added weight, choose medium or light-load springs. If your Tacoma is a fully built-overlander with a constant payload from added accessories, select constant-load springs designed for the extra static weight. The right spring rate keeps ride height consistent and preserves shock travel and comfort.
The Suspension Systems, Explained
IM2.5 Monotube — comfort and control for modern daily drivers
- Best for: Good for the 2025 4Runner & Tacoma daily drivers and family adventure rigs, that split time between highway and dirt.
- What it is: Large-body monotube shocks for precise damping and excellent heat dissipation, paired with tuned coils.
- Pros: Plush ride quality, confident body control, stable at speed, great on broken pavement and washboard. Broad spring options to match added accessories. Natural rubber bushings are used instead of spherical bearings for a quiet, smooth, and maintenance-free ride.
- Consider: Pricier than entry-level systems. For constant heavy payloads, Foam Cell Pro below is more tolerant of continuous heat and mass.
Foam Cell Pro — heavy-duty workhorse for constant load
- Best for: 2025 4Runner & Tacoma overland builds carrying heavy gear all the time, trailers, or armor front and rear.
- What it is: Massive oil volume and foam cell technology that resists cavitation to maintain damping under heat and load.
- Pros: Outstanding heat dissipation and reliability for heavily loaded overland vehicles.
- Consider: Firmer feel when unloaded. Heavier and costlier than Nitro Gas. Choose the right rate to avoid a tall, harsh ride when empty.
Nitro Gas — value-driven all-rounder
- Best for: Weekend warriors and daily drivers seeking a proven, budget-friendly step up over stock.
- Pros: Comfortable, capable for mild to moderate trails, easy ownership.
- Consider: Not ideal for continuous heavy payload or repeated heavy off-road abuse. Step up to IM2.5 or Foam Cell Pro as loads and performance demands increase.
Lift & Level — stance and affordable off-road look
- Best for: Owners who want a leveled look and more room for larger tires for that off-road look.
- Pros: Most affordable path to larger tires.
- Consider: Limited droop travel on some setups and less damping improvement versus full shock-and-coil systems.
4Runner vs Tacoma: How the Use Case Shapes Your Choice
4Runner & Tacoma daily driver and family rigs: IM2.5 Monotube is the smart fit, with spring rates selected for your exact accessory list to perfectly match your ride style and keep it comfortable for the family.
4Runner & Tacoma dedicated overlander with constant payload: If your truck always carries armor, RTT, water, fridge, tools, and spares, heat management and durability come first. Foam Cell Pro is the hardest-working, most reliable shock designed to perform with heavy payloads and demanding conditions worry-free.
Shopping for vehicle-specific parts?
Start here for a Tacoma suspension upgrade: Toyota Tacoma 4th Gen parts & accessories.
Start here for a Tacoma suspension upgrade: Toyota 4Runner 6th Gen parts & accessories.
Set Up Tips for the New Platforms
- Choose honest spring rates: Match load springs to the weight you carry every day, not occasional trip weight.
- Don't forget about alignment: After any lift, schedule a quality four-wheel alignment and verify caster is in a range that restores straight-line stability and steering feel.
- Tires and trimming: A 2-3 inch lift often accommodates a moderate tire size with minor trimming. Check wheel offset and UCA clearance during fitment.
- Don’t exceed ratings: Track added weight against GVWR and GAWR. Braking, handling, and reliability depend on it.
Ready to Build Your Toyota the Right Way?
Pick the system that matches how you actually use the vehicle, then tailor spring rates to the gear you carry. That’s the formula for comfort, control, and confidence on every road.
Shop our top picks: IM2.5 Monotube and Foam Cell Pro. Or explore the full catalog on our Suspension Systems page.
