I just took my IX to the dealership today, and when I called they told me that the slight whine was normal. The service advisor told me that he was not even authorized to open up the transmisison or transfer case until the noise is a lot louder or very hard to get into gear. He said that as the drivetrain start to break in more and when there is some type of load it will make a whine noise. Not too worried cause it's all covered under warranty and the diognastic was free. Took it to Bob Baker Mitsu in Carlsbad, Ca.

 

Its AWD its gonna make all sorts of weird noises your not used too. Hell I thought the same thing. Join the club brother.

 

Your fine unless it starts whining at 4th and 5th gear speeds. Oh yea and it'll be quite loud