Do I need 4wd?

So, I'm in the market for a Tacoma and I've been approved by my bank. I'm looking on the usual sites; craigs, carmax, autotrader. My question is should I or do I need a 4wd model? I'm a teacher/high school coach. I don't plan on doing any serious off roading. Just not my thing. I do plan to do minor off the path stuff with possibility of going to Tahoe and desert. Do I really need the 4wd model or would I be ok with a PreRunner?

 

Sounds like you dont need it. I decided the same thing for myself. I do camp and go on trips in state/national parks but it was just an expense I couldn't justify for myself. I'd happily have taken it if the price was close between 4x4 and 4x2 but on a new truck it wasnt, however if you're looking for used you may come across a 4x4 at a decent price. Good luck with your choice

 

^what he said

I've managed to get myself into situations where 4x4 has saved me some embarrassment. Sometimes I manage to find ditches or ditches manage to find me.

 

I'm looking for a 4x4 in my price range but alas they just aren't there.

 

Welcome to TW...4x4!!

 

You'll be pleased even if you settle for a 4x2. There are people who really use it, and that's great but I just couldn't afford it, or wouldn't afford it would be more correct. Mine with nice A/T tires on it has taken me everywhere I've wanted to go so far, heading west to Utah and Arizona in it this fall.

 

Welcome to TW!

 

Only you can decide for you.

I didn't/don't need it. I don't even need the 6th lugnut.

My poor mans 5 lug does all i need for bikes, kayaks and other hauling duties that i use it for.

And they are much cheaper. Those lugnuts come at a premium.

 

I had my Prerunner for ten years and it certainly got me into some amazing camping areas. Clearance, fat tires, a decent understanding of offload driving, and patience will get you through a lot of obstacles.

I eventually switched over to a 4x4 because I was wanting to go a bit farther than what the Prerunner could do.

 

I used to get my 2WD truck stuck on a regular basis. That’s how I knew I needed 4WD.

Open diff, flat parking lot, patch of ice under one rear tire.

Even just a limited slip rear end can be a serious face saver.

 

if you can't afford it then that's it. just keep in mind that so many here didn't care, did a little offroad and kept coming back for more until 4x2 wasn't enough. and then it gets expensive if you want to do something about it.

 

The 4 Hi/Lo gives you options and opportunities to go and try new stuff.

 

4wd models have much higher resale value

Makes for a better bad investment

 

YEAH! Can't find one in CA, Nevada or AZ for my price! Sucks. Thank bank won't finance anything older than a 2008 model.

 

I think I'm just going to wait another few weeks for a 4x4 to show up in my price range. I have a feeling I'll develop an itch to hit Tahoe mid winter. Don't want to borrow someone elses truck.

 

Welcome! I vote for a TRD Off Road prerunner or a 4wd. Sounds like a 2wd with a locker would serve you well. Mine is surprisingly capable

 

You know what they say, with a 4X4, you can stuck further from the road.... I chose, and would choose again the Prerunner.