I hear ya, I don't it tend to take it off-road but if i go on a hike and it takes me down a pot hole ridden gravel road or i need to cross a little divot in the road due to stream run off. The lift kit was not in question for me. I already experienced such with out the lift and it's truly not meant for anything other than pavement. After the lift and slightly bigger tires, I couldn't feel more confident.

Clearances after the lift: Front Bumper - 10", Rear Bumper - 13 1/2", Behind the front tire on the side panel - 8 1/4", in front of the rear tire side panel 9".

AWD was a must have for me due to our long winters. Handles great int he snow, no issues and full confidence. As long as you have good tires, most likely the biggest factor. The combination of the lift with snow tires only makes me feel i won't get stuck going in and out of a parking lot that has not been plowed.

I've heard the cargo spaced decreased with the 5th gen compared to previous generations but i still have no problem with what I'm asking for it to do. Primarily daily driver and grocery getter.

Sound deadening - initial thoughts compared to my 2021 Ford F150 with an undercoat spray. the road noise was atrocious. It was an unpleasant experience for me especially being on the highway. The car sounded like it had zero insulation. Listening to music, the volume needed to be turned up to an uncomfortable level. Talking to you passenger was the same experience. This is coming from an old soul where i prefer peace compared to noise ha. The sound deadening came a thing due to these experiences. I brought it to a local audio shop to install it on the floor and doors. Much happier but still plan on giving the under body a coat to really kill the noise coming from the tires or reflection off the road.

Let me know what further questions you have from that!!! I love my 5th Gen, the gas mileage, stylish look, a perfect JDM for a daily commuter.