I've noted that new trend as well. Build a shopping center, put all kinds of planter/barricades in the parking lot to make it impossible to get around, and then call it a "mall". In my less-than-humble opinion, if it doesn't have an indoor walkway between stores, it is not a mall.
I have heard the gang problem (are middle schoolers considered a gang as well?) in malls has prompted this new/old style of shopping.
I think what's really prompting this trend is lower construction and maintenance costs. The heating/cooling of the indoor areas of a mall has to be somewhat expensive.
I do like pulling up to the door of a store and just jotting in and out instead of having to wind through a huge mall when I need something.