I wouldn't mind a skid plate where the current protection is that fabric one. I tore mine in Moab this last summer. Also took a good hit to the plate covering the gas tank but it did its job.
This is what I did. Painted the wheels and caps. Cut some automotive hose to put into the cap. It took a half slice and a full piece of tube to get it really snug. I can take it off or put it on with ease. Hasn't budged with three months of daily driving.
I went there as well in my Badlands a couple of weeks ago. No issues although I'm glad I picked Campsite #1. The ones past 3 required going down a significant rock drop. I was the only one there. I didn't even see a ranger at the station.
I just spent a month in the Moab, Utah area and had the opportunity to take my 2021 stock Badlands on some epic road trips.
Some areas I hit were: Sections of the White Rim road in Canyonlands, the road to Paul Bunyons Potty in the Needles District, the Gemini Bridges Road, the 4X4 road in...
I applied the foam tubing and it helped quite a bit but then I also added some rubber seal to cover the gap completely. My Badlands is far quieter now.
Mine was totaled last November with this much damage (Fed Ex van rear ended me at a stop light). It's the unibody frame. It's great for safety in an impact but not so much for repairing.
I swapped out my steelie wheels and road tires for my original alloys and Falkens since I'm headed to Utah in a few weeks. While the wheels were off, I sprayed the felt liners with rubber undercoating. I think it will make them a little more rugged and less likely to absorb water.
When you turn it off in settings, it stays that way for 6 months I believe then you'll have to do it again. An easy fix for a nice feature that's made to prevent kids and animals getting left in the car.
I think the 1.5 trim is fine for most people, and more affordable. However, I've yet to see someone on any forum trade their Badlands for a lower trim. Enjoy. I'm taking mine to Moab next month. Can't wait to hit the dirt roads.