I would check out the Ram Power Wagon for something with off road performance and can tow. The Power Wagon runs on 33.2 inch tires(it can fit 35s without any modifications) just like the regular Ram 2500 and is the same height in the rear as the regular Ram 2500 as well. The only difference in height is the front which is two inches higher from being level with the rear. Even with 33 inch tires and no lift, a Power Wagon can take you more places you are willing to take a 40K truck than most other 4x4 truck with just a lift an larger tires.
As you said, most lifts are just for looks (poser street queens) and in many cases a lift actually hurts off road capabilities by raising the trucks center of gravity while offering no real benefits over a non lifted or leveled truck. The whole purpose of a lift is to be able to fit larger tires, increase your angles(to a point), and to be able to articulate the suspension without your wheel tearing up your fender well. Anything passed that is just for show to pose as an off roader. Although upgrades such as lockers or off road springs/coils would make your truck a lot more capable off road than one with just a lift and overly large tires.
