6 Best Lift Kits With Shocks That Transform Your Truck

The best lift kit with shocks included depends on your truck and driving style. The Rough Country 2.5″ kit for Toyota Tacoma is best for daily drivers wanting modest clearance without overdoing it, while the 3.5″ Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra kit excels for those seeking aggressive stance with balanced front-to-rear leveling. For Ram 1500 owners wanting maximum ground clearance, the 4″ lift kit stands out with premium N3 shocks and precision laser-cut components.

All six options feature Rough Country’s trusted N3 shock absorbers, which deliver smooth rides both on-road and off-road. Each kit includes lifetime warranty protection, making them solid long-term investments for your truck.

Quick Comparison Table

1. Rough Country 2.5″ Suspension Lift Kit for Toyota Tacoma – Best for Daily Drivers

Best for: Tacoma owners wanting a balanced lift that improves clearance without sacrificing daily drivability.

Key Features:

The Rough Country 2.5″ kit is perfect for Tacoma owners seeking practical improvements without going overboard. It eliminates factory rake and adds just enough height for better obstacle clearance. The pre-loaded N3 struts and rear shocks work together to maintain a smooth ride quality you’d expect from your truck. Installation is straightforward—bolt-on design means no cutting, welding, or special tools required. You’ll appreciate the balanced approach that keeps your Tacoma comfortable for commuting while ready for weekend trails.

2. Rough Country 3.5″ Suspension Lift Kit for Chevy Silverado & GMC Sierra 1500 – Best for Aggressive Styling

Best for: Silverado and Sierra owners wanting an aggressive, leveled stance with serious ground clearance.

Key Features:

This kit transforms your Chevy or GMC with impressive 3.5 inches of lift and a perfectly leveled stance. The N3 pre-loaded shocks deliver reliable performance on both highways and rough terrain. You’ll notice the front-to-rear leveling eliminates that stock rake, giving your truck a bold, professional appearance. The kit maintains factory suspension compatibility, making installation manageable. Rough Country backs this with lifetime warranty protection and includes CV axle boot protection for added durability.

3. Rough Country 4″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks for Ram 1500 (2009-2018 2WD) – Best for Maximum Clearance

Best for: Ram 1500 owners wanting maximum ground clearance and the most aggressive lift available.

Key Features:

The 4″ lift gives your Ram the most aggressive stance in this lineup, perfect for serious off-roaders. Premium N3 shocks absorb impacts smoothly while maintaining control on rough terrain. Precision laser-cut components ensure perfect fitment and durability. The kit levels your front with the rear, eliminating factory rake for a commanding appearance. Despite the aggressive lift, Rough Country engineered this to maintain OEM-like ride quality for daily driving comfort.

4. Rough Country 3.5″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks for Ram 1500 (2019-2024 4WD) – Best for Modern Trucks

Best for: Newer Ram 1500 4WD owners wanting a substantial lift with at-home installation ease.

Key Features:

This kit is designed specifically for the latest Ram 1500 4WD models with modern engineering in mind. Forged aluminum control arms keep ball joints at optimum angles for reliability and smooth handling. Premium N3 shocks provide excellent on and off-road performance without compromising comfort. The at-home installation process is straightforward and supported by Rough Country’s helpful team. You’ll get unmatched ground clearance paired with forged components that last.

5. Rough Country 2.5″ Lift Kit with N3 Shocks for Ram 2500 (2014-2024 4WD) – Best for Heavy-Duty Trucks

Best for: Ram 2500 owners seeking practical lift without compromising payload capacity.

Key Features:

The 2.5″ lift is ideal for Ram 2500 owners who need practical clearance without overdoing it. This moderate height works perfectly for heavy-duty trucks that prioritize payload capacity. Premium N3 shocks deliver smooth performance even when hauling loads. Precision laser-cut components ensure perfect fitment on your specific model year. The kit maintains OEM-like ride quality, crucial when you’re carrying cargo regularly.

6. Rough Country 3″ Suspension Lift Kit with N3 Struts & Shocks for Ram 1500 (2012-2018 4WD) – Best for Mid-Range Lift

Best for: Ram 1500 owners wanting balanced lift that accommodates 33″ tires with forged control arms.

Key Features:

This 3″ kit offers the perfect middle ground for Ram 1500 owners wanting noticeable lift without extremes. Forged aluminum upper control arms maintain proper ball joint angles while reducing wear over time. Pre-loaded N3 struts and shocks handle any terrain smoothly. The 100% bolt-on design installs with common tools and requires no cutting or drilling. You’ll easily fit 33″ tires and enjoy a clean, leveled stance that looks aggressive yet refined.

How to Choose best lift kit with shocks included

Vehicle Compatibility

The first step is confirming your truck model and year match the kit exactly. Installing the wrong kit can damage your suspension or void your warranty.

Check your vehicle’s VIN and cross-reference it with the product specifications before purchasing. Most lift kits are year-specific, especially for newer trucks.

Lift Height Needs

Consider how much clearance you actually need for your driving style and terrain. More lift isn’t always better if you prioritize daily comfort and fuel efficiency.

Light off-roading works fine with 2.5-3″, while serious trail work might benefit from 3.5-4″. Think about tire size upgrades you’re planning too.

Shock Quality

All six products use N3 shocks, which are Rough Country’s premium line designed for both on-road and off-road performance. Quality shocks make a huge difference in ride smoothness and durability.

Pre-loaded shocks arrive ready to install without additional adjustments. This saves time and ensures consistent performance right out of the box.

Installation Difficulty

Bolt-on kits install with basic tools in your driveway, while others may require professional help. Consider your mechanical skills and available time before deciding.

Most Rough Country kits are designed for DIY installation, though some people prefer professional shops for peace of mind.

Warranty Protection

All six kits include Rough Country’s Limited Lifetime Warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship. This is excellent protection for your investment.

Lifetime warranty means you’re covered for as long as you own your truck, providing real value and manufacturer confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all these kits include shocks?

Yes, every kit reviewed includes either N3 shocks or N3 struts and shocks pre-installed. You won’t need to purchase shocks separately.

Can I install a lift kit myself?

Most Rough Country kits are bolt-on designs that DIY enthusiasts can install with basic tools. However, some people prefer professional installation for warranty purposes.

Will a lift kit affect my truck’s fuel economy?

Lift kits typically reduce fuel economy slightly due to increased aerodynamic drag and heavier suspension. Expect 1-3 MPG reduction depending on lift height and driving habits.

How long do N3 shocks last?

N3 shocks typically last 50,000-100,000 miles with normal use. Rough Country’s lifetime warranty covers defects, though wear-and-tear replacement isn’t included.

Can I fit larger tires with these kits?

Yes, most kits accommodate larger tires. The 3″ Ram kit fits 33″ tires, while other heights support proportional tire upgrades depending on your truck model.

Final Thoughts

The Rough Country 2.5″ Tacoma kit offers the best value for budget-conscious daily drivers, while the 4″ Ram 1500 kit delivers maximum performance for serious off-roaders.

Focus on vehicle compatibility first, then decide your ideal lift height based on driving needs. All six options include quality N3 shocks and lifetime warranty protection, so you’re investing in durability.

Take your time choosing the right kit for your specific truck and driving style—it’s a decision you’ll live with for years.