Looks really impressive - it seems to be more Mindstorms theme rather then Technic. The number on the picture is 4 digit, rather then new 5 digit standard.
I do not think that LEGO is controlling the pricing of big retailers. It is just a business for them and they try to maximize the profit by adjusting and testing several pricing strategies every year. so only thing we can do is to wait for discounts when it comes...
Most of these models are great but they are not submitted to LEGO Cuusoo. I beleive you all should submit your models there in order to maximize the chance of getting the Technic model to be selected by LEGO.
I am a LEGO Technic fan and adding 2 more sets this Christmas: 9396 Helicopter and 8081 Extreme Cruiser. Last one is 2011 model and finally decided to buy it.