Help choosing order of tire/wheel/level kit upgrades.

[zevinsanchez]

I have a deposit down on a 2025 4Runner SR5 in Underground. It comes stock with

• Tire Size: 245/70R17 110T
• Wheel Size: 17 x 7J
• Spare: 17 x 7J
• Torque Spec: 97 ft-lb (131 Nm)

I am planning on doing a Rough Country 1.5-2in leveling kit, TRD wheels, and 285/70R17 tires. However, I need help on a couple of things.

1) What order should I do these upgrades? The level kit first, or the wheels and tires first?
2) Will TRD wheels from 5th gen models fit the 6th gen SR5? I really like the way those wheels look, and it seems like I can only find 2025 TRD wheels in the 18in form.
3) Anyone have tire recommendations? Frankly, this car will be used purely on the pavement. I would prioritize sound, MPG, durability, and comfort. However, I still want to have an aggressive look.
4) Is there a big difference between 265/70 and 285/70? The 265 seem to be much cheaper, I just don't really have a side-by-side comparison.

For context, I would like to spend as little as possible. Will likely go to discount tire to put them on, but will order from somewhere else. Thoughts?

 

[Trail4R]

Congrats on the incoming 2025 4Runner, Underground is a great color.

1. leveling kit vs wheels and tires

Install the leveling kit first. That gives you a better idea of final suspension height and helps prevent rubbing when you size up tires. With a 1.5 to 2 inch front lift, you should be able to clear 285 70R17s without trimming, depending on wheel offset. Here is a similar setup for example: https://6thgen4runner.com/threads/2...ires-on-method-703-matte-black-35-offset.786/

2. 6th Gen 4Runner Hub Bore Vs. 5th Gen 4Runner Hub Bore

The bolt pattern is still 6x139.7, but the hub bore is different. The 6th gen uses a 95.1mm center bore while the 5th gen TRD wheels use 106.1mm. The wheels will bolt up, but they will not be hub-centric without using centering rings. To avoid potential vibration, use quality hub-centric rings to properly seat the wheels. You're right that 2025 TRD wheels are only available in 18 inch sizes so if you want 17s, a used set from a 5th gen is the way to go. https://www.uswheeladapters.com/ makes a lot of options for hub-centric rings. Nytop also makes a hub centric ring kit for the old gens to the new gens: https://nytop.com/off-road-wheels/p/1061-mm-to-951-mm-hub-centric-adapter-ring-kit.

3. Pavement-focused 28570R17 tire recommendations

Since you're mostly driving on pavement and want an aggressive look without giving up comfort, here are a few solid options. I really like the Coopers for a variety of reasons (most are 3PMSF rated, great on wet pavement, aggressive look, long lifespan) over everything else, but do your own research.

• Cooper Discoverer AT3 4S, great all-around street tire with excellent wet grip on wet asphalt
• Cooper Discoverer Rugged Trek, more aggressive appearance but still very livable on-road
• Falken Wildpeak AT Trail, quiet and efficient with a mild tread
• Michelin Defender LTX MS, excellent comfort and MPG but not an aggressive appearance
• Toyo Open Country AT3, good mix of road manners and off-road styling
• Nitto Terra Grappler G2, solid comfort with a more defined sidewall

4. 26570R17 vs 28570R17

285s are about one inch taller and nearly an inch wider. Visually, they look much better on a leveled 4Runner, but they cost more, weigh more, and can reduce MPG slightly. 265s ride smoother, are usually more affordable, and won’t require any trimming. If your budget is tight or you want to stay simple, 265s are still a solid choice. If looks are a priority, go with a 285/70.