AWD vs 4WD

I am looking to buy a tacoma, prob new or close to it. I notice some say awd and some say 4wd, is one better than the other, I would rather have 4x4 when I want it only don't like it kicking in and out on the snowy highway, I will be using the truck in snow, light mud, gravel hilly terrain, so I was hoping to get an option for a locking rear diff for extra traction on my adventures...not sure if there is an option for front locking diff...

I would like advice on options I should seek on my new purchase...and options I should steer away from! I am new to toyota...my last truck was too big to fit down most bush trails and I would like a good solid smaller 4x4 and the toyota seems like a real good truck!

Looking for a good lift kit/larger tire and rim combo, I am sure they all work well, but would like to know what to stay away from! What size works well in terms of lift size and tire/rim combo for clearance issues etc...I am not doing any hardcore 4x4ing just don't want to get stuck in deep snow and mud/sand, and need to clear some bumpy hilly backroad obstacles. Going to keep reading and I will probably answer most of these questions over the next couple weeks I am sure but would love to know what combo works best for the money etc...

 

FJ manuals are all wheel drive arent they?

 

that would be cool if they did like the chevy & gmc trucks with the awd, 4hi & 4lo options.
the awd setting is very handy on wet roads.

but to the OP 4wd is better off road and awd is better on road basicly

 

How hard can it be?

It would probably be easier on a truck like mine. No traction control electronics, no rear locker, just plain ole open/open and no driving aids.

 

That is awesome. I'm amused.

 

The only way I'd get into my truck that deep was if it wasn't my daily driver. Then, if I had a Tacoma that was a toy and not a daily driver, it'd be armored up and I wouldn't be messing with AWD.

 

Sounds like a Tacoma is exactly what you are looking for! As far as awd vs 4wd whipper already covered it. Generally 4wd is more controllable and more powerful than awd (4lo and lockers) and certainly works better off road than an awd system. But you can't have 4wd on while driving on dry pavement (not an issue because you don't need it anyway). When you are driving through some serious snow or hit muddy holes or roads simply throw that sucker in 4wd and you are set. Then if you get stuck, or are pulling something heavy, 4lo is a magical invention and will give you gobs of torque. Then when you are done, slap it into 2wd and it will go back to a simple 2wd truck. As far as compact and nimble, the taco fits the bill perfectly. More ground clearance, and skinnier then basically every other truck, it can squeeze on tight trails pretty easily. No option for a front locker, but unless you are doing serious wheeling there is no need for it. If you want the diff lock (a really dam good idea) then get the off road package, and done. That's really what you need to be set.

 

I just can not seem to build the trd offroad with the 4 door version....is there a way to get factory rear locker and have 4 doors?

 

most awd get the worst gas milage

 

Maybe he is in Canada? You cannot get an Off Road 4WD Double Cab up there, last I heard...?

 

Yes I am in BC, Canada, I was at the stealership today they had one black trd offroad in stock no extras $34,*** is that not a little high? I would pay that with some extras on it...but wow, the the guy says oh and there is taxes freight and financing fees and charges on top of that as well...and couple others I was like ok talk to you later...just browsing lol. Maybe I should pick up a tacoma in washington state...? lol

What are some of the weak points in the tacomas...say 2008 and up...Do the axles seals always go or the wheel bearings etc...just curious...I know it depends on driving style and mods etc...but just everydays use...I know my olds alero has gone through 7 wheels bearings and its at 230,000km now...got it new...original battery though!! I drove that normally and 7 wheel bearings is excessive in my books...