I noticed this trend a while ago and I do not understand it. Machines like the Thinkpads are not (or were not) designed for the average consumer who might be looking for a computer that is thin as possible. I chose a Thinkpad X230 because of its abilities of expansion and modding. I do not mind the thickness and the weight. The modern Thinkpads, though, seem to go the Apple way: non-removable batteries, soldered memory, removing USB-A and RJ45 ports (I use Ethernet often at work). I'm afraid what the future will bring - soldered SSD? No DRAM slot at all?
It seems like Lenovo started making the usual Thinkpads (X and T series) as a not exactly cheaper Apple alternative, copying all the wrong ideas, and moved the more classic looking models to the P product line, which is way more expensive - they remained quite thick and kept all the needed ports (as far as I recall). Also, it came to this weird situation in which a budget Thinkpad model, like an E490, has more expandability options than the "full" T490, minus Thunderbolt.
It seems like the only thing left that would make me want to upgrade to a new Thinkpad is the trackpoint. I do not, however, imagine using a dongle to connect to my work network (I bring my own device).