I thought long and hard about whether to go for 4M when we bought our Ocean two years back. Having had a T5 for eight years previously and never having got stuck, I could see little logical argument for it, though my heart wanted it. In the end, I went for 2WD for the reasons in the posts above of cost and emissions, but also for load. I often carry heavy diving gear and would not want to reduce the payload. I also tow a boat (approx 1800kg). I test drove a 4M and didn’t find it “night and day”, though I did notice it doesn’t wheel spin if you pull away with enthusiasm. I have never had a problem on the slipway or with grip in my 150DSG and don’t regret the choice. Every now and again, I wish I had the “top model”, but I have to confess to myself I don’t really need it.
One thing I will say is that the standard tyres are excellent on a dry motorway but are rubbish on anything slippery (muddy campsite, snow). I would strongly advise all weather tyres as an option if you want better grip on surfaces other than dry tarmac.
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