Wondering if 4 x 4 is necessary for me?

First off I am brand new to the forum and going to be a first time truck owner.

I am going to be purchasing a new truck soon and I am contemplating whether or not 4WD is a necessary upgrade. I want a tacoma full cab with 4WD, a tow package, and possibly the TRD off road package.

I live in Southern California so that means trips to the desert, beaches, mountains, camping in the redwoods, humboldt county (northern california), and lots of big paved boat ramps. I will be towing a freshwater bass boat with this truck. I assume that with paved launches I'll be fine most of the time with just 2WD and for dirt launches or slick paved launches 4WD might come in handy. I know it is more expensive and could lead to more maintenance issues. The gas mileage I would be saving with a 2X4 is literally only 1mpg and the insurance cost is not much more at all. I want to get the 4WD and even if I never use it I feel like it would be a better to have and not need kind of deal. I also own a bit a land and work in ceramics for a living so I will be hauling quite a bit of weight with the truck. Any of you truck/boat owners have some thoughts on the pro's/con's of 4WD?? Or if you think I should even get a 4 x 4 truck or not?

 

Sounds like you already decided for yourself. I regret getting a prerunner. Have never needed 4x4, but it would be nice knowing I have that option. Get it if you can.

 

I love my prerunner. Ive shown up guys in 4x4s before. (they hate that)

 

I'm definitely not the most experienced (just bought my first taco a month ago) so you may want to refer to whoever responds after me, but I would suggest the 4X4. In the past, I would borrow my dad's Prerunner when I went on camping trips and have come across multiple situations where the 4X4 would have allowed me to get to more remote locations. Problem with the 2X4 is that you need weight in the back for traction up hills and you need momentum to help you up the steep hills. When the hill is steep and rocky, it's forced me to turn back (can't really take a steep hill with speed when the terrain is rough). Doubt you would need it just for the boat ramps, but it's a plus if you feel like exploring a lot of backcountry. Just my 2 cents!

 

If you are going to be on this site a lot and get a prerunner, you will regret it! Being on the beaches, you will want 4x4. The trd offroad will give you an available locker and A-trac. Search A-TRAC on here and read up on it before you decide which package to get. You might still wanna get the Offroad but never use the A-TRAC.

 

4WD > 2WD

Except for lift spindles

 

I know of course the consumer in me wants it to be a top of the line 4 x 4 truck. But theres still that part of me trying to reason that I might not need it. It's my first truck and I don't want it to be all show but instead used for its intended purpose.

 

Thats good to know. I do like to explore when I can especially up north. Plus I feel like if the situation arises where I need 4 x 4 comes up and I don't have it I'll regret my decision on the 2 x 4. I have a hard time letting go of regrets too.

Will do. Thanks for the heads up.

Well thats settles it then.

 

The only times that I've had an issue with the prerunner, is while towing a trailer. I can do fairly well offroad while unloaded but if I could "puchase over", I'd get 4x4 because of the towing complications.