This is every car makers strategy too... most (all?) of the gadgets and safety gear that are available in modern lower-end cars were developed in higher priced

This is every car makers strategy too... most (all?) of the gadgets and safety gear that are available in modern lower-end cars were developed in higher priced product lines (or even racing models). Power locks/windows, Satnav, power steering, anti-lock brakes, etc... The higher margins help pay for the development of what will be standard features 5-10 years down the road.