The price isn't unexpected I guess, but it will be interesting to see how this thing moves. Like it was mentioned, the Falcon (which is iconic even to non fans) was just a little bit more than this originally ($150 I think?), and it didn't always move the best. The AT-AT even sat somewhat, and it was probably the most popular offering in the big vehicle line (or the AT-TE). I think many will wait for a sale/clearance on this at that price, and I might do that too. It all depends on the timing of the release (and what I have budget wise), because I do like to support stuff like this so we see more of it later. Come to think of it though, all of these BMF vehicles have hit clearance at least in some capacity haven't they?
It is interesting to think about what could come about down the road. There may not be a lot of good options from the prequels that haven't already been done (Turbo Tank, AT-TE, Slave I, etc.) so maybe we'll just see re-releases of that type of stuff. The Tantive would be very cool, and I do think we'll see that ESB repaint of the Slave I at some point during these releases as well. Might be a shot at some sort of Death Star during ANH, since we know they've at least had plans for it along the way (and this may well be their last shot at putting it out). Sail Barge for ROTJ would be a nice way to cap off the big vehicles, if that is the big SW send-off down the road. I agree though, I do like having the one "big" item to look forward to each year in the SW line. I haven't bought them all, but I like that the line has had them each year.