WU7X
Snow on the Roof
This is an excellent thread with some really great real-life recommendations. Let me add a few; I had an Xcab Taco that I built up for expedition use. Selling it was one of the dumbest things I've ever done. I now own a '97 T4R that I'm slowly building up for long-range expedition style use. If you get a 4 door Taco, I'd recommend purchasing a heavy duty fiberglass topper for over the box. Remember to also get Windoors with the topper. Windoors open up and allow you to access everything in the box of the truck without having to pull anything out over the tailgate. It sounds like your family is small enough and young enough to utilize a rooftop tent. I've used one for almost a decade now and can't recomment them highly enough. The pups can either sleep in the cab or box. Here is a pic of my old Taco.
I really, really like my 4Runner and think that for the three of you it should work well. I am a bit concerned about putting three humans and two large dogs in any of the vehicles you dicussed. The big problem I see is having enough room to pack up food, water, fuel can(s), clothing, etc. in back of the T4R and still have room for the five of you. I use an Australian Chuckwagon to handle most of my supplies, but it takes up almost all of the storage area in the back end of the 'Runner.
Whaever you choose, you'll really get to love and expect the dependability of the Toyotas. They are just incredible. Good luck and see you on the trail.
I really, really like my 4Runner and think that for the three of you it should work well. I am a bit concerned about putting three humans and two large dogs in any of the vehicles you dicussed. The big problem I see is having enough room to pack up food, water, fuel can(s), clothing, etc. in back of the T4R and still have room for the five of you. I use an Australian Chuckwagon to handle most of my supplies, but it takes up almost all of the storage area in the back end of the 'Runner.
Whaever you choose, you'll really get to love and expect the dependability of the Toyotas. They are just incredible. Good luck and see you on the trail.