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2005-2022 Tacoma Fox Elite 2.5 vs. Fox Factory Performance Series

Stage 3 Blog
Posted by Nick Kovar on 3/5/2022 to
When it comes time to swap out your Tacoma's suspension, you're going want to invest in a high-quality upgrade for long-lasting functionality and improved performance. FOX is one of the leading manufacturer's in the aftermarket suspension industry, which is why we're going to be reviewing the new FOX 2.5 Elite Series Coilovers and how they stack up against the older 2.5 Factory Performance Series Coilovers. FOX has 2 main performance coilover options for the 2005-2022 Tacoma, and it can be a bit confusing to navigate the similarities and differences between the two. We're here to hopefully eliminate some of that confusion so you can walk away with either FOX Factory Performance Series Coilovers or FOX 2.5 Elite Series Coilovers.

FOX Factory Performance Series Coilovers for 2005-2022 Tacoma's

Before FOX released their brand new Elite Series Coilovers, their Factory Performance Series predecessors were the only performance coilovers they offered for the 2005-2022 Tacoma. Newer doesn't necessarily mean nicer, so we're going to cover how these units measure up to the newer series, and why they are still a formidable option for your truck. Four different sets of coilovers make up FOX's Factory Performance Series Coilovers, with each separate one having a slightly different degree of functionality. We can easily divide these 4 coilover options into two sets, 05-22 Tacoma FOX 2.5 Factory Performance Series Reservoir Coilovers & 05-22 Tacoma FOX Factory Performance Series 2.5 Reservoir Coilovers w/ DSC Adjusters, with both giving you the adaptability to choose your desired ride height. When it comes to range of ride height, these older Performance Series Coilovers take the cake as they offer a wider range for their 0-2" and 0-3" options, while the Elite Series features a fixed ride height of 2" for their lower version. Moreover, the standard version of FOX's Performance Series Coilover's come equipped with remote reservoirs, hoses, and brackets for fast heat dissipation and excellent performance over stock. Additionally, these coilovers feature 2.5" steel shock bodies, 7/8" hardened NitroSteel shafts, application-specific valving, and 3.0 Eibach racing coilover springs placed in 6061-T6 billet aluminum upper and lower mounts. The standard version alone of FOX's Performance Series Coilovers is enough to write home about, and not to mention they are the most affordable option as well. The standard and adjustable versions are identical when it comes to construction including the shock bodies, shafts and springs, but it's the freedom of adjustability that sets them apart. What makes the Adjustable version unique from the standard is the incorporated Dual Speed Compression (DSC) that allows you to fine-tune the high and low-speed compression for a wider range of applications. Changing the high and low-speed compression at a moment's notice is extremely useful for altering terrain; however, these coilovers will require aftermarket Tacoma upper control arms for proper suspension articulation. Aesthetically speaking, each coilover utilizes steel shafts and springs with a black anodized finish for the upper and lower mounts. The only real cosmetic difference between the two Performance Series shocks is that the adjustable version features blue accent knobs for the DSC adjuster, making it easier to see in low-light conditions. The Factory Series Performance Coilovers will make serious improvements to your everyday driving applications, but continue reading to see if the new Elite Series Coilovers are the right fit for you.

New FOX Elite Series Coilovers for 2005-2022 Tacoma's

FOX is always trying to get ahead of the game and their competitors, which is why they just released their new Elite Series Coilovers for the 2005-2022 Tacoma. FOX wants these new coilovers to eventually be the new standard for the Tacoma as they are slightly stronger than their previous counterparts. As of now, the Elite Series is offered with only two variations, the 2005-2022 Tacoma FOX Elite Series 2.5 Reservoir Coilovers (2" Lift) and the 2005-2022 Tacoma FOX Elite Series 2.5 Reservoir Coilovers (2-3" Lift). As you've probably noticed, the main difference here is whether you choose between a fixed ride height of 2 inches or a range of height between 2 and 3 inches. The taller version of these shocks will require aftermarket Tacoma upper control arms, so if that's a deal breaker, the 2" package will suit you just right. Compared to the Performance Series, the newer Elite Series comes standard with Dual Speed Compression Adjusters, which in our opinion was the right decision. The DSC adjusters are perfect for quickly adapting your shocks for load, environment and driving style, so it only made sense for FOX to incorporate this a standard feature on their new Elite Series. When it comes to construction, FOX used a stronger, more durable impact extruded and CNC Machined 6061-T6 hard anodized aluminum for the shock body. This tough aluminum shock body is paired with a 7/8" hard chrome plated heat-treated alloy steel, compared to the older Performance Series hardened NitroSteel Shaft. FOX's Elite Series also outshines the Performance Series piston as it utilizes a Race-developed high-flow piston design to better manage stability through all types of terrain. When it comes to appearance and appeal, the Elite Series features a more blacked-out styling theme with sharp orange accents for the DSC adjusters and Remote Reservoirs. The aluminum shock body features a charcoal color compared to the light steel look of the Performance Series Coilovers, giving you a more aggressive undertone of your Tacoma's suspension. These coilovers were designed for a more modern upgrade to their previous counterparts, so they're not completely different after all. You know yourself and your truck best, so it will ultimately come down to preference and budget when deciding between these two high-quality options for your Tacoma.

Major Similarities & Differences: Which is Better?

Some of the main the components of these two Coilover options are completely identical, so it safe to say that you really can't go wrong with either option. Both the Elite and Performance Series Coilovers feature a massive 2.5" diameter shock body for maximum strength, Remote Reservoirs for faster heat dissipation during extreme applications, and 7/8"shafts to take durability to the next level. What's more, both series coilovers have an impressive 600 lb/in spring rate, so there really won't be any difference in ride quality between the two. The spring on the Elite Series however is 14" long whereas the Performance Series features a 13" spring. The minor difference of spring length won't have a noticeable effect on your ride, so you can feel confident that you've picked a high-quality upgrade for your vehicle. The real major differences include the quality of construction, color scheme, range of ride height, and whether the Dual Speed Compression adjuster comes standard or as an upgraded option. You may be wondering, so which one should I choose for my truck? The answer isn't as simple as it seems because the truth is that one isn't inherently better than the other. If you don't need the DSC adjuster for different types of terrain or you don't want the hassle of installing aftermarket Tacoma upper control arms, pick up the standard version of the Factory Performance Series Coilovers and save a bit of cash while you're at it. If the DSC is something you're looking to upgrade for, it wouldn't be a bad call to pick up the Elite Series Shocks for the peace of mind knowing you have some of the strongest coilovers for your truck. The biggest downside to the Elite Series Coilovers is the lack of control over your truck's ride height, so it really comes down personal preference when making your decision. We hope this article helped differentiate FOX's coilover options for your 2005-2022 Tacoma, but if you have any further questions, please feel free to let us know in the comment section down below!

FOX Performance Coilover Options:
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