When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
When considering for basic work trucks I tend to favor the 4x2, but they do have the amazing ability to get stuck on nearly level ground when empty. When looking at a high end truck the percentage increase for the 4x4 is tiny. You'll be spending as much on sales tax! IMO it's an excellent upgrade for you that you'll be glad to have.
I had a 13 SD that was 2wd. Kept it less than a year and sold it. Worthless on wet grass, mud, snow, etc. I bought it to save some money up front as well as the better fuel economy but because it was nearly unusable and I traded it after less than a year I lost big time. Never again. Now all of my trucks and tractors are 4wd.
2wd is all about having the proper tires, and lots of weight in the back. 4wd just means ya get stuck farther from the road...
Now add front and rear lockers, 37 or 39 in tires along with 6 in of lift and they will have to lift you out with a helicopter, or you leave it behind...I have seen plenty just left there.
In my opinion 4x4 vehicles just tow better. Just general every day driving with a trailer, they have always felt more "planted" to me. The added weight I'd guess is the main thing, more weight on the front.
But I agree with everyone else. I live in the south so snow doesn't matter but wet grass? These trucks are too heavy to drive in your back yard unless it's perfectly dry and smooth.
Don't let anyone talk you into something you don't want but buy 4x4! lol Just kidding. You may get by just fine without it but the vast majority of us who have it have all needed it at one point or another. Good luck with whatever you choose!