Tacoma 2wd vs 4wd?

there are people in this world that think if it's not 4x4 it's not a real truck
a PreRunner OR will work just fine for you
a 5 lug, probably would work as well
if you go to Big Bear during a storm, then 4x4 would be a better choice

 

Thanks! yes, I see that a lot of truck owners look down on you if your truck is not a 4wd.. It's kinda like the whole "if your car is not a manual, then it's not a real car" type of vibe. I have no plans on going up to big bear, especially during snow season. The truck will serve as my daily then on the weekends, I plan on taking it out to a few public land spots that are local to me. Attached pictures is what I plan on using the truck for.

 

Just get what makes you happy. You obviously do not need 4WD. Stop stressing over this. Just get a 2WD and be done with it. If in your search you find a great buy on a 4WD then get it. Otherwise get a 2WD , be happy, enjoy.

 

It seems like the 2WD is right for you. Much lighter, more efficient, less crap to replace and fix. I looked for a long time to find my double cab Prerunner 2WD, it works perfect for me and no regrets. My 2005 5-speed never got stuck even in snow and ice. I don't think my 14 with auto LSD will do any worse.

During this past years snow storms I didn't even drive my 4WD 4runner since I would rather have my wife have the 4WD rig at home. I really can't think of a time I have "needed" the 4WD in my 4Runner honestly.

In the end get what works for you

 

You won’t regret having 4 wheel drive.
You will regret not having it if you ever need it.

that being said my old truck was 2wd and I made it do. I did get stuck a couple times. If you get a 2wd you just have to be smart about where you take it.

 

While it sounds like 2WD is what you need, only you can make that final determination. We don't know the roads or conditions you'll possibly be in.
I have both a Pre-Runner and 4WD Tacoma. I've been on rocky terrain that my Pre-Runner handled fine. I've also been on flat-ish terrain that I would've never gotten out of without 4WD. What we use our trucks for are irrelevant. It's what you'll be driving in. Don't over think it. Best of luck with your decision.