vikefan7,
The "thing" with "heat-sink" is the "fan control module" (based on WorkShop Manual).
Denso is a big company in Japan. Their product line covers many areas.
On Tow Package, there are two fan control modules, on regular CX9 (like mine), there is only one. The WorkShop manual also mentions this. However, it only mentions that some models have dual fan control modules. From comparing yours and mine, I think it is the Tow Package which makes the difference. Strange though, mine also have two fans controlled by one module. On Tow package, there are two control modules control two fans. More efficient? "Heavy-duty"? Who knows?
I also found something interesting (I believe someone asked about this), and I quote:
"Depending on the vehicle, the cooling fan may operate suddenly even when the ignition switch is turned off. Therefore, keep hands and tools away from the cooling fan even if the cooling fan is not operating to prevent injury to personnel or damage to the cooling fan. Always disconnect the negative battery cable when servicing the cooling fan or parts near the cooling fan."
So, our beloved cooling fans do activate even when the ignition is off.
Case closed.