TRD Off Road Prerunner or 4x4, pulling camper in AZ

I currently have a 2010 RAV4 Limited with the V6 and 4WD that I daily drive and use to pull my 2011 Coleman Santa Fe Cp pop up camper. It pulls it just fine, but it can get relatively close to the max tow weight (3200lb/3500lb limit) of the RAV4. I have been looking around for a DC Tacoma with the TRD Off Road package for a decent price, and today I came across a 2010 Prerunner with 14k on it. It is a TCUV with a 100k bumper to bumper warranty, and has every option available. The dealer is asking 26k, and offering 2.9% APR @ 60mos. I live in the Phoenix, AZ area so a 4x4 isn't necessarily a requirement, however, we do go up north often in the winter months. Often times the camper will be behind us, which I would think would provide better traction with the increased weight, but I am still apprehensive. Should I stick with the RAV4 and 4WD or should I make the jump to the Prerunner? I am not much of a true offroader, just some forest service roads and things of that nature (easily within the range of the Prerunner with the TRD Off Road package if I can do it with the low ground clearance in the RAV4 I would guess, 4WD or not).

 

How frequently do you find yourself in 4wd with the Rav4? If you're in 4wd frequently with the Rav 4, then you should get 4wd in the Tacoma. The weight of the camper will help put more weight on the back end so you'll have traction but 4wd would help you steer.

 

I wish I could answer that. Its a full time system so it comes on and off as needed without any driver input. It can be locked for lower speeds, but I have never done it out of necessity.

 

Oooh... that kinda sucks then. 4wd is nice because it pulls you through an obstacle or when in a low traction situation. This would be especially nice when towing because your front end is slightly unweighted. The TRD Off Road will have a rear locker to help with certain situations though. I don't know how bad the winter conditions are where you go camping but if it were me I'd want 4wd. Maybe look for a double cab SR5 with 4wd? It sounds like 4wd would be more beneficial to you than the locker.

 

If you tow in the snow I would get 4x4. If not the prerunner with good tires would be good. IMO

 

I didn't realize they got that much for used prerunners. IMO, get a non TRD dbl cab SR5 4x. I just paid 23500 for mine, access cab, a cpl of months ago. It doesn't sound like you need any of the capabilities of the OR ATRAC/Locker etc.

 

Looks like this turned out great for me, thanks for the help guys. The dealership let me take the Tacoma overnight to think, I decided no and I want a 4x4. They took in a 2010 4Runner SR5 4x4 this morning, and I just put a deposit on it. Just have to wait until it gets certified and I am taking it home!

 

Good choice