What are the main differences between a Toyota Tacoma Prerunner and the standard Tacoma? Can you explain what the Prerunner is? The Prerunner is a truck, but it isn’t 4WD. Why do all trucks need to be 4WD? 
Some folks don’t really need 4WD. If you’re mostly driving in the city, why pay for it? Just look at how many people here are building Overlander-style rigs but never actually leave the pavement. When you’re at the store, notice how many 4WD trucks have street tires on them. A great example of a 2WD truck in use would be your local parts store that delivers to mechanic shops.
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I see your point, but the Prerunner might not be the right choice. People who buy trucks just for the status usually go for those jacked-up crew cabs with less ground clearance than a grandma’s old Camry. They don’t really care about bed size because they aren’t actually hauling anything. They just want that tough-guy look.
The Prerunner is for folks who get that a truck doesn’t need a massive V8 to be effective. It’s a single cab designed for functionality. People who want it aren’t looking for a huge truck. This is for those country folks who rarely leave dirt roads, needing a truck just to get to their blue-collar jobs. It’s a near base model for a reason. They don’t want a bunch of extra features because those things can break.
PreRunner buyers want a truck they can actually use as a truck.
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You’re right! But I live in Minnesota, so I definitely need 4WD. We get snow for about 8 to 9 months a year. 
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That’s cool for you, but over a third of the U.S. lives in places where 4WD is more of a luxury than a necessity. I’ve been driving 2WD trucks for 30 years and I’m still waiting for that “one time you wish you had 4WD” moment that everyone talks about. Never had it, don’t need it, don’t care.
Real Prerunners are made for higher speeds, and you generally don’t want to go fast in 4WD. Trophy trucks are usually 2WD for that reason.
So does that mean 4WD trucks are actually slower? I know sports cars are more fun in RWD, is that the case for Prerunners too?
I think they would be because they have more weight and parts that can break. In racing, being lightweight and not breaking stuff is super important. So 4WD is just unnecessary for Prerunners.
What about off-roading, like rock crawling or steep climbs?
If you’re into rock crawling or mudding, then 4x4 is definitely a must. You’re going at slower speeds, and 4WD gives you way more traction.
I guess for what I want to do, I definitely need 4X4. I’m planning to push my Tacoma to the limit.
If you plan on rock crawling, mudding, or just trail riding, then 4x4 is highly recommended. Personally, I have a Prerunner and use it like a trophy truck. There are some gravel roads near me where I like to go faster than I probably should and get some air over the little jumps. Maybe it’s a bit reckless, but it’s so much fun using the truck the way it’s meant to be used.
I want to be reckless too! 
I plan on traveling all over the U.S. and eventually exploring Canada as well.
You might want to consider an overland-style build. Those are pretty popular for people who love to travel and ride trails.
That sounds great, but right now I can only afford the TRD OR. The Trailhunter is out of my budget.