Thinking about a 6th gen 4runner lifted setup is basically the first thing most of us did when Toyota finally pulled the sheet off the 2025 model. After fifteen years of the previous generation, the hype was real, but the immediate question for the off-road community wasn't about the new screens or the cup holders—it was about how much clearance we can get and how big of a tire we can stuff under those fenders.
Let's be honest, the stock stance on a 4Runner is fine for picking up groceries or hitting a gravel driveway, but it always feels a little "nose-down" from the factory. That rake is there for fuel economy and towing, but if you're planning on actually hitting a trail or just want that aggressive look, a lift is usually the first box to tick on the mod list.
Why Everyone Is Eager to Lift the New Platform
The 6th gen 4Runner is built on the TNGA-F global truck platform, which is the same beefy foundation used for the Land Cruiser, the Sequoia, and the new Tacoma. This is huge news for anyone looking at a 6th gen 4runner lifted project because it means the aftermarket development is going to move fast. Since companies are already making suspension components for the Tacoma, we're not starting from scratch this time around.
Getting that extra height isn't just about looking cool at the local meet, though that's a nice bonus. It's about functionality. The new 4Runner has a slightly different silhouette than the old one, and while the approach and departure angles are decent out of the box, a couple of inches of lift can be the difference between clearing a rock and smashing a rocker panel. Plus, let's face it, these trucks just look "right" when they're sitting a bit higher.
Understanding the TNGA-F Suspension
If you're coming from a 5th gen, things are going to feel familiar but significantly upgraded. We're still looking at an independent front suspension (IFS) and a multi-link rear, but the geometry has been tweaked. When you start looking for a 6th gen 4runner lifted kit, you'll notice that the components are much more robust than they used to be.
The biggest change is how the truck handles weight. With the optional i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, there's a bit more heft to deal with. If you're lifting a hybrid model, you've got to make sure your spring rates are dialed in to handle that extra battery weight without sagging. The last thing you want is to spend thousands on a lift only to have the front end dive every time you hit the brakes because the springs are too soft.
The 33s vs. 35s Debate
This is where the real conversations happen in the forums. On the old 4Runner, fitting 35-inch tires was a massive chore that involved "the chop"—basically cutting into the body mounts and trimming a lot of plastic. With the 6th gen 4runner lifted, it looks like 33-inch tires will be the "easy" fitment, likely requiring just a mild 2-inch lift and maybe some minor inner fender liner moving.
But we know how it goes. Everyone wants 35s. Because the 6th gen shares so much with the Tacoma, we're seeing that 35s are more attainable than ever, but they still aren't exactly "bolt-on." You'll probably need a solid 3-inch lift and some high-clearance aftermarket bumpers if you want to avoid that dreaded rubbing sound every time you turn into a parking spot or articulate the suspension off-road.
Choosing the Right Lift Style
Not all lifts are created equal, and how you plan to use your truck should dictate what you buy. If you're mostly doing it for the aesthetic and don't plan on jumping dunes, a simple spacer lift might be tempting. They're cheap and they get the job done for looks. But man, the ride quality usually takes a hit.
For those of us who actually spend time on washboard roads or rocky climbs, a suspension lift with new coilovers is the way to go. Brands like Fox, King, and Old Man Emu are already working on valving specifically for this chassis. A good set of 2.5-inch diameter shocks will soak up the bumps in a way the factory stuff just can't, especially once you've added the weight of a roof rack, a winch, and a fridge in the back.
The Trailhunter and TRD Pro Factor
Toyota actually did us a favor with the new trim levels. The Trailhunter comes straight from the factory with an OME (Old Man Emu) suspension and 33-inch tires. It's essentially a 6th gen 4runner lifted right off the showroom floor. For a lot of people, this is going to be plenty. It's warrantied, it's engineered by Toyota, and it looks great.
However, if you bought an SR5 or a Limited and want to build it yourself, you've got a blank canvas. Even owners of the TRD Pro, which comes with Fox internal bypass shocks, might find themselves wanting a bit more height once they realize how much more capable the truck becomes with an extra inch or two of ground clearance.
Maintaining the Ride Quality
One of the biggest fears people have when lifting a brand-new truck is ruining the ride. Toyota spent a lot of time making the 6th gen 4Runner feel more refined on the highway. If you go with a cheap, stiff lift, you're going to lose that "new car" feel.
The secret to a great 6th gen 4runner lifted experience is focusing on the Upper Control Arms (UCAs). Once you go above two inches of lift, your factory alignment geometry starts to get funky. Aftermarket UCAs allow you to get your caster back into spec, which means the truck won't wander all over the lane when you're doing 70 mph on the interstate. It's one of those parts that isn't "flashy" because you can barely see it, but you'll feel the difference immediately.
What About the Warranty?
It's the age-old question. Does a lift void the warranty? Generally, no—not the whole thing. But if your new CV axle snaps and you've got a 3-inch lift and 35s, don't expect the dealership to fix it for free. They'll likely point to the increased angles caused by the lift.
That's why a lot of people are opting for "mild" lifts in the 1.5 to 2.5-inch range. It gives you the clearance and the look without putting extreme stress on the drivetrain components. It's all about finding that middle ground where the truck is more capable but still reliable enough to drive across the country without a second thought.
Final Thoughts on the Build
The 6th gen is a massive leap forward for the 4Runner. It's got more power, a better transmission, and a frame that's ready for abuse. Seeing a 6th gen 4runner lifted out on the trails is going to become a common sight very soon, and honestly, it's exactly what this truck was made for.
Whether you're going for a full overland build with a rooftop tent and heavy armor, or just a clean "OEM plus" look with some nice wheels and a leveling kit, the new platform is incredibly rewarding to work on. Just remember to do it right the first time—buy quality parts, don't skip the alignment, and maybe keep a little extra in the budget for the hit your fuel economy is going to take once those big tires start spinning.
At the end of the day, the 4Runner has always been about adventure. Lifting it just makes those adventures a little easier to reach, and a whole lot more fun to look at in the driveway. It's an exciting time to be a Toyota fan, and I can't wait to see how the community continues to push what this new generation can do.