They aren't really revolutionary, of course, but a gasoline powered hybrid still has a slight efficiency edge over a diesel. If you factor in the higher complexity, weight, cost and emissions of Diesel vs. Otto it's easy to see why gas hybrids are popular today.
I think what VW and Bosch are doing for diesels will pave the way for broad adoption of diesel-hybrids at some point, though.
* Reduced wear-tear on ICE engine (my Prius can idles on downslopes at 70mpg+ not to mention during low speeds) - I change oil every 12 months (synthetic) and it's always clear.
* No transmission - eCVT = engine directly mated to front transaxle.
* No need for ultra-low-sulphur diesel fuel (I couldn't buy a turbo-diesel in CA a few years ago), or even finding a station that sells diesel (most do, some do not).
* No evaporative emissions = garage smells cleaner.
* Regenerative breaks = no breakpad replacements in 8 years.
* No smog check - still haven't had to do one.
You also get a zen feel when you drive a car that's using electric - it floats forward, no rumble beneath your feet, in 2005 I couldn't buy any other car that'd give me that feeling and also seat 5 ppl comfortably.
I like turbo-diesels, but I like my gas hybrid better.
Modern diesels have tons of "technology." When you're running pressures above 40,000 PSI on the common-rail and doing direct injection, there's quite a lot of tech in a modern diesel engine. Older, dirtier, diesels don't need this tech but emit quite a lot more particulates and other unwelcomed emissions.
Any of the urea injection technologies are a pain. Some modern diesels have low enough emissions to not need the urea. We need more of those and less urea.
"Edge" I meant purely in terms of fuel efficiency. If you consider the average consumer looking at buying a passenger car they might be willing to spend a premium on a more efficient car. Two common choices are a modern diesel or gas hybrid. At least here in the US the hybrid is a slightly more attractive choice if you factor in the purchase price and the price of diesel.
I think what VW and Bosch are doing for diesels will pave the way for broad adoption of diesel-hybrids at some point, though.