Dieselgate just reinforced the reasons so many Americans won’t buy diesels.. and in most cases they don’t have a need.
Speaking of need.. for new 200-series buyers? Practically zero need for an aux tank. How many of these end up in our hands in great shape because they just did soccer mom duty previously? They dwell in cities. Even among those of us that go off-road, very few truly need more fuel tank range. Yes a few would tow, heavy, on the freeway.. but what percentage? Why would Toyota spend the money to develop that system? It’s not a good investment. It wouldn’t sell more vehicles.
And the diesel wouldn’t either, to the vast majority of new buyers, between the increased cost, perceptions of a it being a dirty fuel, etc. Even with the better power at altitude (again, how many people does this impact?) how many more 200s would they sell to justify the huge cost of developing and certifying that engine that makes 100 less hp where most people will use it? Keep in mind how most Americans buy cars.. bigger=better.
Yes, ultimately it’s about finances. They know they wouldn’t have made money here in the states with those design choices.