I've tried a couple of dealers and even the europeandeliveryprogram e-mail but nobody is giving me a conclusive answer on this one:

-- I KNOW a lease is not an option with European Delivery (BMW does it, but Audi for some reason doesn't). But how about other forms of financing, like the "Purchase" or "Premier Purchase" through Audi Financial Services, or something like an E-Loan "PowerCheck" or a Capital One "Blank Check"? Can the car by paid with that type of Financing when it's ready, even though it will only be registered in the US months later?

(I know I'll have to temporarily shell out the 19% VAT from my own pocket, but I'm wondering about the big MSRP-5% lump)

Has anyone tried financing and succeeded?

for a title to clear customs it has to be free and clear on any and all leins. You must pay for the car in full if you want to do the european delivery program (HELOC anyone).

I do not remember all the particulars and thought it was crazy, but this is the story I received from Audi finance and my sales person.

I understand the reasoning, but I was hoping that if Audi financial services had the title we could still do the delivery program-oh well!

Maybe when I trade in the A6 for an A3 in a few years.

Finally I get a straight answer! Thanks.

BMW's European Delivery program allows all types of financing, including leases, so it's indeed silly. If BMW found a way, Audi certainly could find one too...

Having to pay the extra 19% VAT upfront and then having to get it refunded is equally stupid, and, again, BMW has found a way around that too.

Audi is clearly not trying too hard... I guess they don't understand the power of the European Delivery program as a marketing tool.

Then again, Audi USA's marketing is not exactly stellar in other departments either...