Toyota Tax is real... but there are many other good Trucks/SUV's to choose from. Everyone's financial situation is different, but I can't justify spending more than $10k on a trail rig because I know it is going to get beat up Lol. I could never wheel a new truck, would be cringing the whole time.
I ruled out Mitsubishi Trucks like the Monteros and Pajeros because I believe they are just not reliable enough to take the abuse of wheeling. Too many issues with their drivetrain, generation to generation .
A strong option is to import a Hilux, if you want to stay under $10k. Any one already landed here when I was looking, that is in good condition, was around $11-12k. You can always get lucky and find a good example Toyota for under $10k. Usually high mileage Land Cruisers etc. or the occasional good 4Runner.
I was looking at Suzuki XL7's aka Vitara's, as they are body on frame, have a stout V6 and have good aftermarket support for lifts. I ruled this out because I just hated how cheap the truck felt... and Suzuki Canada is no more.
Body on frame is usually a must for me, but I started looking at ZJ Grand Cherokees with the 4.0L and Infiniti QX4 / Pathfinders. Settled on a QX4 because I really like the VQ 3.5L. Unibody has it's downsides, but I do enjoy the car-like handling since it is on road most of the time. Aftermarket is limited on the R50 QX / Pathfinder platform, but most bases are covered. Lift, Locker, Subframe Drop.
If you want to go the American Route, most will be full-size options. Mid size options (if that is ideal for your situation) like Bronco II's, Grand Cherokees or Cherokees are getting harder and harder to find in good condition.
