'10 chev imp 3.5L flex fuel thermostat location

[FISH96]

will be changing the coolant and hoses; there are many of those; before turning over car to family member.

i noticed the thermostat housing where the lower radiator hose attaches to the block.
i would like to understand the reasoning and benefits behind this new configuration? the thermostat opening temp is 185 F.

i've been told the imports have been doing this for quite some years, but no one knew the reason why.