How does the 4wd ride?

I currently have a 2008 2WD Doublecab SR5. I am considering purchasing a 2020 Tacoma but it seems like all the ones with options I want are 4WD. I'm not an off-roader but my part of the world (Dallas/Fort Worth) does gets some icy weather a few times per year. My 2008 has an awesome ride (like a big fat cushy SUV). How is the ride in the 4WD models? I know previous editions of anything TRD were bouncy.

Any information would be appreciated.

 

I have not ridden in a 3rd Gen that's 2 wheel drive so my comparison will just be between 4 wheel drive trim levels. I have a sport it is definitely bouncier than my friends off road. The SR5 I found to be a nice in between. I do not find my sport to be too bouncy but it is a more cushiony ride then the off road in my opinion

 

The Off Road has the softest ride, but probably a good idea to test drive different models to see what you think.

 

I prefer the way 4X4's ride.

 

What are the options you are wanting?

 

The ride is going to be pretty much the exact same 2WD to 4WD maybe a touch different cause the 4WD vehicle will be slightly heavier. 4WD is an on/off switch. The off road is definitely a little bouncy on the highway. Get a sport if you want stiffer suspension.

 

Ride quality is VERY subjective. Go spend an afternoon test driving a few trucks.

 

4WD doesn't help on ice.

 

Sure it does, with both acceleration and braking (due to lack of center diff).

 

For what it might be worth, i came from a 2001 tundra 4wd sr5 and now own a 2020 sr5 4wd taco. In no other terms i can describe the taco rides like a lumber cart in comparison to the tundra....which had a plush ride.

 

When stopping. You'll have twice the traction, but the same stopping issues any 2wd will have.

 

It isn't the "get out of jail free" card but it may give you some options (on a case-by-case basis) over a 2WD. As always, your mileage may vary (literally and figuratively).

 

So less than desirable, I take it?

 

I liked the options provided in the 2008 SR5 package but it seems like I'll need to get a higher-end package (i.e. Limited) to get what I want. I'm not a fan of 4WD but I'm not opposed to it if I'll get a better truck with a better ride.

 

Because the front and rear axles are locked together in 4WD, the brake bias becomes 50/50. That helps to reduce braking distance on slippery surfaces.

 

No one can tell you how you'll like the ride of a particular truck compared to another, it's your butt. Test drive a bunch at the same dealer the same day, back to back, see if you like one over another.

 

With an automatic thats debatable...trust me. Once you get use to 4wd, you can use it to your advantage to steer out of an icy problem easier.

 

As mentioned, you should test drive various models and trims.
To me, gone are the days of rides like four wheel drive, as are most of the solid front axle trucks

 

I agree with this. The SR5 is a good in between, but you may consider going with an off-road purely for the resale value.

 

I have an automatic 3rd gen 4x4. I had an automatic 2nd gen 4x4. I've also experienced it in a Jeep Compass and Hyundai Santa Fe, when the center diff/coupling is locked. Braking distances are shorter and better controlled in 4x4 than in 2WD. The greater rear brake bias in 4x4 also helps with directional stability. I agree, "steering out of a problem" is a nice luxury when you have room to maneuver.