[Eugene_C]

From a value perspective, sure, but from a competition perspective, it is above and beyond its only alternative: the Jetta TDI. The performance increase, historical diesel reliability, excellent fuel economy, Aisin transmission, and standard features really make it well worth the price.

It looks like a pretty good deal for the technology. Look at what people pay for the Volt. Obviously if someone is not excited by the extra technology, then they're unlikely to pay for it. But plenty of people will pay for the knowledge that they've got the tech.

 

[Eugene_C]

According to the following site, there was tax credit that ran from 2005 until 2010. For each manufacturer it was good for up to 60,000 vehicles of a particular model. It was phased out in 2010. I don't know if there is any new credit on the horizon:

Federal Tax Credit for Diesels