Not disagreeing at all but...
But what if it weren't an option? What if Toyota just made the Wrangler competitor that the LC250 was alleged to be when it was first announced? About every 3rd vehicle on the road around here is a Wrangler. Half of those are running 35's or lager. Probably less than 10% actually see dirt. Broncos and jacked up 3/4 ton trucks also make up a large portion of vehicles on the road.
Maybe it's a regional thing and not seen across the country, but there is certainly a market for the "hardcore off roader" or at least the perception there of. I think this perception plays into the psychology of vehicle sales every bit as much as ride quality. People seems perfectly happy to spend their money on a loud, rough riding, solid axle 4x4 when a crossover or sedan would be a more practical choice.
I'm also not sure I agree that a solid front axle means poor handling and ride quality. As an example, Land Rover did fine for many years with solid axle Discoveries and Range Rovers.
I understand the whole global platform thing and the logic in engineering and manufacturing, but it's left us with what will be 3 versions of the 4Runner by 2025. The LC250 is cool, but there is nothing exciting about it for me.
I also fully recognize that I'm and enthusiast and Toyota hates me.

EDIT to add: IFS isn't the only be of the world, but I do believe Toyota could have done better to set the LC250 apart.