The 6.2 is actually a Detroit Diesel, and yes, I know that is still GM, but NOT a converted gas turd.
I still get asked questions all the time when they hear my 1009 start up. "That's a diesel?" Usually if they are old enough to remember, they'll ask, "It's not that diesel 350 motor, is it?"
For a little back story, I bought my 1009 about a year and a half ago, paid $960 for it site unseen, just internet photos. Took a chance but figured the description said the engine smokes, so I figured, if it smokes, it must run then.
Bought it, had it towed home for $400, ouch, but they were very nice.
Dropped 2 batteries in her, started right up. She is still a fully untouched 24 volt system that works perfectly
No lie!
She wasn't without her problems, but she ran. The smoke, someone replaced a valve cover gasket and grazed a small hole in the cover, that and she was fully loaded with red diesel.
I drive her everyday as a work truck, without many issues.
As to the main question why CUCV's are more costly than civi's, it's like adding the word "Pro" to anything, Pro must be better, so it cost more.