In 99 the Xterra was what brought Nissan back from Death and when Fiat sent Ghosen over too for that matter. The automobile industry is changing. Off-roaders represent such a slim market segment, that Nissan must focus on the vast majority of buyers (all taken from data upon car sales). business is business.

This is exactly why the multi-billion dollar aftermarket exists. To fill the niche's, to cater to the customers who demand more from their vehicles (ie. XOC members). Nissan has built a better vehicle in virtually every dimension. The old X was a little small, this one is a little bigger. The old x was underpowered, this one has enough power...etc etc. XOC demanded a locker, Nissan put it in (again thanks to e-locker technology). Nissan designed a package for the "Off-Roader." Shocks, Lockers, bigger tires, 4x4 assit option...almost everything members do to their own rigs.

Yes, a button shifter for the 4wd might suck, but its a standard across the model line and prob the same part (cutting costs). If you dont like it, Atlas makes a great T-case and Advance Adapters will def. help you mate it to the trans. ALL YOU NEED IS MONEY FOR THESE MODS, just like Nissan needs money too, to produce vehicles and operate a multinational corporation. Auto manufactures think on a grand scale, catering to the masses whereas Specialty manufactures think on a smaller scale, catering to the niche markets. thats business.