The 6th gen 4Runner community is finally getting real-world suspension data, and Bilstein is leading the conversation. If you're deciding between the 5100 and 6112 setup for your 2025 or 2026 4Runner, here's what the forum builds are actually showing.
Why Bilstein First?
The aftermarket for the 6th gen is still catching up — most major brands released their kits in late 2025 and early 2026. Bilstein was one of the first to publish confirmed part numbers and get shocks in builders' hands. That head start means there's actual forum data to work with, not just spec sheets.
The Bilstein 5100: Best Entry-Level Upgrade
The 5100 is a monotube gas shock — same basic design as the OEM shocks, just better. It's not height-adjustable in the front on this platform, but it's the cleanest, lowest-risk upgrade you can do to the 6th gen suspension.
Part numbers: Front 24-347464, Rear 24-347433.
The forum consensus: ride quality noticeably improves, especially on models with AVS (Active Variable Suspension). One owner on a 2025 Limited set the fronts at 2.2 inches of lift and reported the install was straightforward — the hardest part was disconnecting the AVS connectors. The result: better rebound control, smoother ride, no rattles.
Pair the 5100s up front with OME 3344 rear coil springs or Bilstein's own rear springs and you're looking at about 1.5–2" of lift all around for a relatively modest budget. Owners running the OME 3344 combo are consistently happy — "rides better, looks better, worth it" is the general feedback.
Budget estimate: $400–$650 for the shocks, plus $150–$250 for rear springs depending on brand.
The Bilstein 6112: The Coilover Upgrade
The 6112 is a full coilover setup for the front — height-adjustable from 1" to 3.3" over stock, 60mm piston, Bilstein's proven monotube design. In the rear you're pairing with Bilstein 6100 shocks (not 6112 — that designation is front-only).
Part numbers: Front 6112: 47-347472, Rear 6100: 24-347440.
This is where the 6th gen starts getting serious. Builders targeting 38 inches of ride height are landing right in the 6112's sweet spot — somewhere between 2.5" and 3" of lift up front with the rear springs at your preference. Builders coming from a 5th gen 5100/6112 setup have described the install as familiar and straightforward. Expect the front coils to settle about 1/4 to 3/8 of an inch lower after the first few hundred miles, so dial them slightly higher than your target height at install.
Budget estimate: $900–$1,200 for the front coilovers, plus $300–$400 for the 6100 rear setup and springs.
So Which One?
Here's the honest breakdown. If you're keeping it under 2.5" of lift and don't want to deal with coilover adjustability — or you're on a budget — the 5100 kit is the move. It's a direct upgrade over OEM with real-world proof behind it. Pair with OME 3344s out back and you're done for well under $1,000 all-in.
If you're planning to run 285/70R17 or 285/75R16 tires, want a legit 2.5"–3" lift, and know you're going to be on trail regularly, the 6112/6100 setup is worth the extra spend. The height adjustability means you can dial it in after break-in instead of being stuck where your springs settle.
What About UCAs and KDSS?
The 6th gen 4Runner uses KDSS (Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System) on higher trims and AVS on the Limited — neither is a dealbreaker for aftermarket suspension, but both add install complexity. The 5100 plays well with both systems. The 6112 at max height will push your geometry enough that a fresh alignment is a must, and if you're running 3"+ and taking it off-road seriously, adjustable upper control arms should be on your list.
The Bottom Line
The Bilstein 5100 kit is the best bang-for-buck upgrade you can make to a 6th gen 4Runner right now. It's the entry point that actually improves on the factory ride without committing to a full coilover budget. The 6112 is the right call if you're building — more adjustability, more capability, more room to grow into your tire size.
Either way, you're not guessing anymore. The forum data is in, and both setups are working.
If you're tracking every mod — part numbers, costs, what's installed and what's on deck — Build List Garage is the easiest way to keep it all organized and share your build with one link. Download it free from the App Store.