Those autos don't do well on real steep hill because the fluid all runs into the transfer case (they share the same fluid), but for a lite trails is should do ok. The V6 in a 94 is known for blowing head gaskets and being under powered.
If you are set on a auto you can set up a tacoma transmission, but you will need push button to shift the transmission and adapter plate for the case so it will drop to the right side (lots of work and money).
If you have money I would look at a tacoma because you are using it for DD / lite trail truck and they are nice trucks.
If you are poor then I would hold out for a 22re with a manual.