....it was still meant to be used as a truck (Hence the larger payload capacity) as apposed to the modern midsize pickups, which seem more comfort oriented.
I know most people are telling you to get a 1ton truck if you are going to haul 2k lbs. But that is risky in having an inherently less reliable vehicle that doesn't have an overseas equivalent.
For some reason the overseas models of the little trucks all have payloads of >2k lb. Really. Look up some reviews. I know the Hilux has a different frame than the Tacoma (Tacoma has more torsional flex), but the Frontier and Navara both have fully boxed frames. Are the foreign models really beefed up that much, or is it mainly a tire and suspension difference? Or is it just a difference in how they rate them? I wonder about brakes, bearings, and other things that would be difficult to upgrade. Springs, shocks, and tires are easy.
The payload ratings are not safety ratings. I have a '86 Toyota in addition to the Tundra, and they have the same payload rating. But there is no comparison in how comfortably and safely they can handle that load. And even overloaded these new trucks will handle, brake, and accelerate far better than your typical RV. So what does payload mean? I'd guess it is the manufacturers warranty and liability rating, and it's based on the pure stock configuration. And since all the 1/2 tons are designed to be "cars" in the US, they have street tires and soft springs. Of course if you overload you may run into some weak links in the frame and bearings.
If I was you I'd look into a Frontier, just because good used Toyotas are so pricey. And dig into the differences between a Frontier and Navara that would account for the payload difference. And look at the engine and drivetrain options in the Frontier that you'd be mostly likely to find overseas.
Also, regarding the 2k lbs. Might you be able to pare that down a bit? Are you building your own camper, or are you planning on a slide-in, or....?
