They asked if I want to confirm an build-to-order for delivery in June-August (first allocation) right now.

They also stated that NAV is available immediately. I asked them to reconfirm this, and also asked for a complete breakdown of all prices/options. They will have that later today and I will visit the dealership tomorrow morning (with Boowana/Sputnik's updates in hand for confirmation - thanks guys) to see about placing an order.

The salesperson did not confirm that I could put down a refundable deposit, or how much that would be - they will have to verify with the salesmanager and I will know this evening. I assume the deposit is $500 or $1000 and should usually be refundable.

I have two concerns:
1. I may not like the car when I see it for real in 3 weeks time (Houston auto show), or when I read the magazine driving reviews in a few months time, or when I get a test drive in June. Will a deposit be refundable all the way up to the day my car arrives at the dealership? Or is there a 'point of no return'? Previous waiting lists I've been on with Mercedes and Lexus were refundable at any time.

2. My car might arrive too early for me if it arrives in June. I have an IS300 on a lease that expires in mid-September. As I wil be over my mileage limit I am happy to return it early, but probably not earlier than mid-July. Is there any control over when a specific car arrives at the dealership? If 'my' car arrives on June 1 and I cannot accept it, do I go to the back of the queue and have to wait for a third or fourth allocation car due in 2004 (exaggerating dates here).

Any thoughts would be appreciated...