So, for me its about returned utility per dollar per life of product. Numerically, this seems a complete no brainer by possibly more than an order of magnitude. That is why I asked if this is just about a fashion statement, because my dollars and time perspective absolutely cannot understand why anybody would purchase a vehicle with possibly less utility for so much more money that costs so much more to maintain. I am trying to understand, but just cannot see it.

The only thing I can imagine why people would defend the more expensive option is due to vanity. I suspect that is important to some people. As somebody more cash strapped it just seems absurd, at least to me.

I'll answer this in good faith if you're willing to listen!

Am a happy CT owner. I paid an amount that is in line with a "fully loaded F150" according to a google search. I consider the two vehicles fairly comparable both on price and on features at a very broad level, but of course different people value different things.

Why I like it: the looks, the performance, FSD, the covered/secured truck bed, convenience (no more gas stations or regular oil changes & tune-ups).

One benefit that I didn't even know when I bought it, is that if you get some hardware installed at your electrical panel, the truck can actually serve as a whole house battery backup. This was huge last week when the PNW had a windstorm that took out power to 500K houses. My family was able to stay at home, comfortable, well-fed, and entertained. Many of my friends and coworkers had to book far away, expensive hotels and throw away everything in their fridge/freezer.