I think the OP is experiencing the same thing as many prospective purchasers are: long lead times for new cars. I don't suppose the Audi dealer is a 'total muppet', but simply being honest in that many A3s have very long delivery times. Likewise a Bluemotion Golf. It wouldn't surprise me if a VW dealer knew such a model wasn't available until spring 2011. These dealers will try to sell what they have or what they know is available. Just check the Hyundai IX35 thread out for an insight.

However, if it is reduced running costs you are after I would be looking at an Octavia, not an Audi. If the 'prestige badge' is important then fair enough....just calculate how much it is going to cost you first.

Update: after visit to bmw with wife and 6 year old child decided that the bmw is just too wee in the back. They are now offering me a 318d (10 months old) for the same price as a new octavia vrs crd.

Just for reference in the past 12 years I have been driving (in order)

golf mkIII vr6

civic type r

octavia mk1 vrs

mazda cx-7

by a country mile the octavia has been the best all round car but I feel that I have been there and done that so would like a change. I am also getting older and bored with spending time filling up in petrol stations.

thanks too all who replied, I am going to try the bmw and the octavia tomorrow. I will try to update this. It may boil down to service/warranty deals unless one is the much better car.