My gut says the same thing about the electric transfer case, but my real experience with my Xterras says for me the electric is better:

* Shift on the fly up to 55

* Auto mode- which is great in patchy ice/ snow, which is the only way we seem to get it here. Any time in these conditions I wanted to switch from 2h to 4h, I couldn't because I was going over 25.

Off road, I think a lever and manual hubs reigns supreme, but for combined use, I'm willing to go w/ the electric. It has been on the Pathy and Armada for a while now, and I have yet to hear a complaint.

Overall, I'm pretty pleased with the '05. It's only a fraction longer, and the overhangs are shorter, so approach/ departure should improve.

I just hope we get the locker option, and a clutch start cancel for the manuals.