There is no denying that the 2021 Toyota Tacoma is one of the most popular pickup trucks available. Part of what makes the Tacoma so appealing comes from its robust powertrain and off-roading capabilities. In short, the Tacoma is one of those trucks that can easily surpass 200,000.

However, if you want to get the most out of your off-roading experience, you previously had to opt for the capable TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models. Thankfully, Toyota just announced a brand new upgrade for all V6-powered trucks.

Does the 2021 Toyota Tacoma offer a lift kit?

If you’ve got a 2020 or 2021 Toyota Tacoma, you can now purchase a lift kit directly from the dealership. In terms of specs, you get a two-inch lift upfront and a one-inch lift in the rear. You get Bilstein shocks with digressive valving, which aims to provide a capable ride off-road that is still comfortable on the road. Additionally, larger shock bodies allow the suspension to dissipate heat easier.

Part of what makes this 2021 Toyota Tacoma lift kit unique is that it is the only one compatible with Toyota Safety Sense. When opting for aftermarket options, Toyota reports that they might interfere with your truck’s safety systems. However, opting for this TRD lift kit won’t interfere with these systems.

In terms of off-roading, your 2021 Toyota Tacoma becomes even more capable. According to Toyota, your frame ground clearance increases by 1.7 inches. Additionally, the truck’s approach angle improves by 3.1 degrees to 32, the break-over angle by 1.6 degrees to 23, and the departure angle by 0.5 degrees to 24.

How much does this cost?

One of the best aspects of this 2021 Toyota Tacoma lift kit is that it won’t break the bank. However, as you would expect, it isn’t available for all 2020 and 2021 trucks. In fact, your truck must have a V6 engine and all-wheel drive to be compatible. This alienates all of the four-cylinder and rear-wheel-drive trucks. If you have one of the qualifying trucks, the kit will cost you $1,350.

For context, the cheapest 2021 Toyota Tacoma you can buy with the V6 engine and all-wheel drive starts at $31,975. In contrast, the taller off-roading trucks such as the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro start at $34,415 and $44,175, respectively. As a result, there is a case to be made if you want to save a few thousand off a brand-new truck. Additionally, this can be added to older 2020 models, which might be a great way to update your truck over time.

On top of just the lift kit, for $1,350, you also get a brand-new front grille that reportedly houses TRD-inspired styling elements.

There is just one drawback

If this 2021 Toyota Tacoma TRD lift kit sounds like a flawless offer, there is one major drawback you should be aware of. Unfortunately, this kit is only available as a dealer-installed option. This means you won’t be able to purchase it separately to throw on your truck. Additionally, Toyota specifies that you will have to pay for the labor to install the kit, ranging between four and five hours. The only benefit of having the dealership install the kit is that it allows you to retain a 3-year, 36,000-mile warranty.