We regularly get asked about suspension upgrades by our customers. From the keen off-roaders to the Sunday drivers, it’s the one upgrade that every 4×4 owner at least considers at one point or another. This is particularly true of those who own older models and might want to give their outdated vehicle a few more years of use. But even for those with relatively new rigs, a suspension upgrade will offer a more aesthetically pleasing look and a major increase in ride quality.
There are three basic ways to lift a 4×4 vehicle:
- Replacing the suspension by removing old coil and leaf springs and replacing them with the new kit like this one by OME.
- Installing a suspension spacer like the SuperPro Ezy Lift Kit. This is the more affordable option and might prove to be acceptable for those who are not trying to improve on or off-road performance and simply want to install larger wheels for aesthetic reasons. In this case, we’d recommend that the wheels are added after the lift is fitted to avoid fitting issues or component contact.
- Installing spacers between the vehicle’s body and frame. This is generally done to allow larger wheels to be fitted and is a cosmetic option only which can leave an ugly gap between the body and frame.
The Toyota Hilux Series 8 is a glorious piece of Japanese 4×4 engineering. As with many Toyota vehicles, it’s a famously reliable and well-built machine that handles well but can be quite a firm ride with stock suspension. Thankfully, there is a huge range of upgrades available, with the BP-51 remote reservoir shocks proving particularly popular for more demanding users.
On-road and off
The Hilux lineage stretches back to the late 1960s but it’s the eighth-generation model launched in 2015 (and then updated in 2018 and 2021) that we’re interested in here. The development concept for the Series 8 was dubbed “redefining toughness,” which meant not only creating something more resilient but something that looked and felt tough. The latest Hilux also boasts extra ride comfort for longer drives, an ultra-quiet cabin and an enhanced cruising range thanks to improved fuel efficiency.
The full package
You are spoilt for choice when it comes to suspension upgrade options for the Hilux Series 8. Generally speaking, however, a complete kit is a better way to achieve optimal results than going for individual components. A set of springs could be fitted with existing shock absorbers, for example, but there are always going to be component limitations to consider and fitting new shock absorbers won’t compensate for old springs.
A 4×4 for all seasons
The Hilux Series 8 is one of the most popular current 4×4 models in the UK with commercial users. The sheer toughness of the model means it’s also used heavily in agriculture and overland travel. It’s no slouch on tarmac either and with the addition of new eco-technology in the latest models, even with a high-powered 2.8-litre engine, it’s pretty economical when it comes to fuel.
Regardless of whether you go for the complete kit option or upgrade in a more modular capacity though, the Hilux is a luxury vehicle (with a price to match) that will take a beating. But it is definitely not indestructible. Selecting the correct components is vital, and care should be taken not to choose parts that are incorrectly rated for the application. If you’re unsure, contact us directly and we will advise if we feel that the components you’re looking at might be unsuitable.
Whether you’re using your Hilux for commercial use or as a green laning beast, there is a suspension kit that will give you what you’re looking for. These kits will offer greater handling and stability to original and newer models with components that are just not quite up to the task. So, if you’re interested in upgrading the suspension on your Toyota Hilux Series 8, contact us today.
Image: Jarhe Photography / Shutterstock.com
