Sounds like the newer models are made that way. Ours is an 05. That may have been a build change to make them easier to assemble. Maybe easier to get it behind the gas lines.
I personally would rather have a smooth skin on it. It would have cut down on the camper rash in the truck bed. I have about 3/4" on either side of the tailgate jam when loading.
It is what it is.
I guess it looks more rugged when it's off the truck.
You do know they make designer duct tape these days. That might be the "touch" that makes it yours.