I just noticed that the transmission skidplate on my X doesn't even attach to the frame on the rear side-it only attaches at the front. I guess it coud deflect some minor hits, but it seems like it would be useless if it took a direct shot. What were the designers thinking when they did this?

That's almost exactly what Jim at shrockworks said when we put mine up on a lift to look at the underside. I was very surprised myself when I saw it as well.