Fuji Touring Disc vs. REI Co-Op ADV 1.1

Hi all,

I've been thinking about consolidating two of my current bikes (road-oriented aluminum hybrid and steel single speed) into a single bike and really think a touring bike would be a good fit. I've been interested in the Fuji Touring Disc (currently $1500) for a long while but they are near impossible to find in person for a test ride in my area. I recently found that REI is discontinuing a recent edition of its Co-Op Cycles ADV 1.1 tourer and is offering a significant discount (~$1020 down from $1700); also, my local store has models in my size available to try out. Links to both bikes below:

https://www.rei.com/product/220761/co-op-cycles-adv-11-bike
https://www.fujibikes.com/products/touring-disc-21

The main differences I see between the two models:

1. Steel – Co-Op unknown Chromoly alloy vs Fuji Reynolds 820 – Would one expect a huge difference in ride quality or bike handling between 820 and say, 4130 or some other steel grade?
2. Brakes – Co-Op full hydraulic discs vs. Fuji full mechanical discs (I have TRP Hy/Rd combo disc brakes on my CX bike, my only point of reference for disc brakes)
3. Tires – Co-Op Schwalbe Marathons (I like these and currently use them on my alu hybrid) vs. Fuji Vittoria Randonneurs (seem to be widely disliked for their exceptionally high rolling resistance)
4. Axles – Co-Op 15mm thru-axle front, QR skewer rear vs. Fuji QR skewer front and rear – I assume there's some stiffness advantage from a TA up front?

My use cases for this bike would be:

1. A work commuter – load up with laptop bag, lunch, and change of clothes
2. Longer recreational rides – on road, with perhaps some hardpack dirt or very light gravel
3. Trailer towing – haul light loads <30 lbs in a trailer for delivery volunteering, bring a future small dog <20 lbs with me in a trailer on adventures
4. Credit card touring – something I've never done but would like to try at some point.

Are there any glaring problems you see with the Co-Op bike? Given the significant price difference and availability to try in person, it seems to be the logical choice.