Earlier quoted context omitted.
You can look at the Mini and tell whether you want a smaller iPad. Miniaturization has come at a premium forever. And would you propose that Apple doesn’t offer a cheap iPad for bulk purchases and kids? A lot of computing devices are the same externally and distinguished by slower processors and less internal features.
I would propose a lineup where spending more money won't result in less features.
Between the iPad -> iPad Air -> iPad Pro, which one gives you less features as you spend more?