My order experience (so far)
I have been unable to make a deal with the VW dealer in Albuquerque. There's a $2500 premium on all TDIs, plus a non-negotiable $1250 "Security Pack" of dealer add-ons (window tinting, tire insurance, etc.). Santa Fe has no manual trans, and hasn't made much of an effort to sell me a car, despite numerous contacts.
I found a dealer in Colorado that offered to order my desired configuration at MSRP or less. Delivery is expected 90-120 days (or less) after the order is placed. I paid a deposit on Oct 23, and later that week received an email with an image of the "vehicle order." I was told that I would receive updates periodically.
I heard nothing else for a month, so I emailed the dealer this past weekend. Apparently, a "production date" will be set soon.
I'm a little annoyed by the process (both the "premium" issue and the ordering delay) . . . it seems that it shouldn't be this difficult to buy a car. At least (hopefully) I'll end up with exactly what I want: Blue Graphite sedan w/manual trans, sunroof, and media/ipod interface.
