I think the new runners have shifter to a more easy to drive, less to think about attitude of driving in most conditions kind of thinking. See, standard 4wd requires more skill when the going gets rougher, like pumping the brakes, etc. The new Runners correct for this electronically, so he driver just stays on the gas and goes. It's much simpler that way, or at least that's what they feel for most drivers anyway.

That's my thoughts on it, and it seems to be the direction most companies are heading, both for ease of use, all-around safety, and gas mileage.

Chris