TRDLEGACY
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- Tundra
- 2023 TRD Off Road SR5 4X4
A lot of people assume that once you lift and build out a truck like a 3rd Gen Tundra, it becomes a weekend warrior or trail-only rig. But in my case, this Army Green beast is my daily driver. Whether it’s dropping off the kids, commuting to work, grabbing groceries, or hitting the trails on the weekend—my lifted Tundra does it all. So let’s break it down: the real pros and cons of daily driving a lifted, modded Tundra, and some practical tips I’ve learned along the way.
Pros of Daily Driving a Lifted 3rd Gen Tundra
1. Road Presence & Confidence
Let’s be real—this truck commands respect on the road. With a lift, bigger tires, and aggressive styling, people notice it. Sitting higher than most vehicles gives you more visibility in traffic, and there’s a real sense of confidence behind the wheel. I feel safer knowing I’m in a full-sized truck with off-road capability at my fingertips.
2. Built-In Utility
I always have the gear I need on hand. Whether it’s recovery tools, a rooftop rack, chase lights, or auxiliary lighting, the truck is always ready for the unexpected. I don’t have to “prep” for an adventure. I’m already ready. Plus, the bed is perfect for hauling everything from camping gear to construction supplies.
3. All-Weather/All-Terrain Capability
Rain, mud, snow, sand—doesn’t matter. Daily driving a lifted Tundra means I never worry about road conditions. While most people slow down or reroute, I just keep rolling. There’s a peace of mind knowing the truck can handle just about anything I throw at it, whether it’s a last-minute detour or an unpaved road.
Cons of Daily Driving a Lifted Tundra
1. Fuel Economy (or Lack Thereof)
Let’s not sugarcoat it—MPG takes a hit. Between the lift, 35” tires, roof rack, and added weight from armor and lighting, I don’t exactly drive past gas stations. It’s a tradeoff I knew going in, and I accepted it. Re-gearing or tuning can help, but if fuel savings are your top priority, this build isn’t for you.
2. Tight Spaces & Parking Garages
A lifted full-size truck + SoCal parking = a challenge. Whether it’s parallel parking in downtown or squeezing into a compact space at the grocery store, you’ll quickly learn the limits of your turning radius and the true meaning of patience. Backup cameras and chase lights help, but urban parking is still a struggle.
3. Ride Quality
Depending on your suspension setup, ride quality can vary. Some aftermarket suspensions are firm and sporty; others are plush but floaty. You’ll feel more of the road than you would in a stock truck. I run an off-road-ready suspension, and while I love the performance on trails, it’s a little stiffer on the freeway.
Tips to Make It Work
1. Dial in Your Suspension Setup
If you’re going to daily drive your lifted rig, invest in quality suspension. FOX, King, or ICON with proper tuning makes a huge difference. Avoid cheap spacer lifts or random coilover kits—they’ll kill your ride and handling.
2. Choose Your Tire Size Wisely
While 37s look great, 35s are often the sweet spot for daily driving. They’re more manageable on the road, easier on your drivetrain, and help keep MPG and road noise in check—especially if you’re not re-geared.
3. Stay on Top of Maintenance
Bigger tires, extra weight, and trail abuse all take a toll on components like brakes, alignment, and steering. Frequent checks and tire rotations go a long way. I’ve made it a habit to inspect everything after trail runs and before long road trips.
4. Protect Your Paint and Interior
Off-road adventures bring dust, scratches, and mud. Ceramic coating or paint protection film can help keep your Army Green Tundra looking fresh. For the inside, go with all-weather mats and seat covers to keep things clean when life gets messy.
Final Thoughts
Is it practical to daily drive a lifted, fully-built 3rd Gen Tundra? Yes—but only if you’re prepared for the trade-offs. You give up some comfort and fuel efficiency, but you gain confidence, utility, and a truck that’s ready for any adventure at a moment’s notice. For me, that’s a trade I’ll take every time.
#3rdGenTundra #DailyDriverRig #ToyotaTundra #OverlandBuild #OffRoadLife #BuiltNotBought #LiftedTruck #TRDLife
View attachment IMG_5563.jpeg
Pros of Daily Driving a Lifted 3rd Gen Tundra
1. Road Presence & Confidence
Let’s be real—this truck commands respect on the road. With a lift, bigger tires, and aggressive styling, people notice it. Sitting higher than most vehicles gives you more visibility in traffic, and there’s a real sense of confidence behind the wheel. I feel safer knowing I’m in a full-sized truck with off-road capability at my fingertips.
2. Built-In Utility
I always have the gear I need on hand. Whether it’s recovery tools, a rooftop rack, chase lights, or auxiliary lighting, the truck is always ready for the unexpected. I don’t have to “prep” for an adventure. I’m already ready. Plus, the bed is perfect for hauling everything from camping gear to construction supplies.
3. All-Weather/All-Terrain Capability
Rain, mud, snow, sand—doesn’t matter. Daily driving a lifted Tundra means I never worry about road conditions. While most people slow down or reroute, I just keep rolling. There’s a peace of mind knowing the truck can handle just about anything I throw at it, whether it’s a last-minute detour or an unpaved road.
Cons of Daily Driving a Lifted Tundra
1. Fuel Economy (or Lack Thereof)
Let’s not sugarcoat it—MPG takes a hit. Between the lift, 35” tires, roof rack, and added weight from armor and lighting, I don’t exactly drive past gas stations. It’s a tradeoff I knew going in, and I accepted it. Re-gearing or tuning can help, but if fuel savings are your top priority, this build isn’t for you.
2. Tight Spaces & Parking Garages
A lifted full-size truck + SoCal parking = a challenge. Whether it’s parallel parking in downtown or squeezing into a compact space at the grocery store, you’ll quickly learn the limits of your turning radius and the true meaning of patience. Backup cameras and chase lights help, but urban parking is still a struggle.
3. Ride Quality
Depending on your suspension setup, ride quality can vary. Some aftermarket suspensions are firm and sporty; others are plush but floaty. You’ll feel more of the road than you would in a stock truck. I run an off-road-ready suspension, and while I love the performance on trails, it’s a little stiffer on the freeway.
Tips to Make It Work
1. Dial in Your Suspension Setup
If you’re going to daily drive your lifted rig, invest in quality suspension. FOX, King, or ICON with proper tuning makes a huge difference. Avoid cheap spacer lifts or random coilover kits—they’ll kill your ride and handling.
2. Choose Your Tire Size Wisely
While 37s look great, 35s are often the sweet spot for daily driving. They’re more manageable on the road, easier on your drivetrain, and help keep MPG and road noise in check—especially if you’re not re-geared.
3. Stay on Top of Maintenance
Bigger tires, extra weight, and trail abuse all take a toll on components like brakes, alignment, and steering. Frequent checks and tire rotations go a long way. I’ve made it a habit to inspect everything after trail runs and before long road trips.
4. Protect Your Paint and Interior
Off-road adventures bring dust, scratches, and mud. Ceramic coating or paint protection film can help keep your Army Green Tundra looking fresh. For the inside, go with all-weather mats and seat covers to keep things clean when life gets messy.
Final Thoughts
Is it practical to daily drive a lifted, fully-built 3rd Gen Tundra? Yes—but only if you’re prepared for the trade-offs. You give up some comfort and fuel efficiency, but you gain confidence, utility, and a truck that’s ready for any adventure at a moment’s notice. For me, that’s a trade I’ll take every time.
#3rdGenTundra #DailyDriverRig #ToyotaTundra #OverlandBuild #OffRoadLife #BuiltNotBought #LiftedTruck #TRDLife
View attachment IMG_5563.jpeg
