Lift or leveling kit. Please help me decide

Hey Toyota Tacoma, I’m new here and recently got a 2021 Tacoma TRD Sport short bed. It’s my first truck, and I’m looking to lift it mainly for aesthetic reasons and to fit slightly larger tires for a more aggressive look.

My daily commute is short (about 3 miles), and I occasionally take long family drives. I prioritize keeping my truck clean and in good shape. I have researched lift and leveling kits but can’t decide which is better for me, especially considering I won’t be off-roading.

Any advice on whether a 2" or 3" lift would be best? I’m aiming for 275/70/17 tires, eventually.

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Choosing between a 2" and 3" lift for your Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport short bed depends on your specific needs and preferences. But for me, I will always go for a 3" Lift kit because:

  • Increased ground clearance: Better for off-roading and navigating rough terrain.
  • Aggressive stance: Gives your truck a more rugged and commanding appearance.
  • Larger tire accommodation: Allows for bigger tires, enhancing off-road capability.

I totally understand where you’re coming from—lifting a truck can really enhance its look! Given your short daily commute and occasional family drives, a 2" lift would likely be a good balance between aesthetics and practicality. It would give your Tacoma a more aggressive stance and allow you to fit those 275/70/17 tires without significant impact on ride quality or handling. A 3" lift might look even more impressive, but it could affect your ride and might require additional adjustments. If off-roading isn’t in your plans, the 2" lift should meet your needs while keeping your truck clean and comfortable.

A lift kit elevates the frame and lowers the suspension to provide more tire clearance, whereas a level kit merely adds a front spring spacer to bring the body parallel to the ground.