With these Nokia phones running close to pure Android, and no manufacturer/carrier bloatware, there is not a huge need for root.
I would still like to be able to run Titanium Backup and a few other applications that require access.
Developers probably don't see much reason to work on a low-mid range device that has small market share and is not heavily skinned.
Some people used to their legacy rom might choose this phone if they could install it.