Harsh one, and no one can take that decision away from you.
One thing to consider is that in nine months, things can happen to the Sportage spec too. Peugeot isn’t the only one scrapping parts of specs – so there’s a risk that if you go for the Sportage, you might get the same issue.
That all said, i personally would probably be pretty stiff in “negotiations” with Peugeot. If they’re not willing to work with you in terms of AP or “some kind” of good will, i’d probably walk away from the car if possible. I actually disagree with heated seats being a “first world problem”, they’re pretty substantial for us (indeed, we paid extra to get them in our next lease). There’s things i could deal with, like electrically adjustable seats, that’s not that big an issue (still annoying), but on that one i’d personally be strict.
As i said, i’d make it clear to Peugeot that, if they don’t “sweeten the deal” somehow, i’d walk. Of course, still being nice – but stern.
In the end, a good relationship with your dealership is important (to me it is, at least) – if i already get the impression that they don’t give a shi.. damn about you as customer (by not letting you know immediately that you’re not getting what you ordered – preferably before the car is even built), that’s already a red flag.
On one of the most important features for us (wife has Raynauds), i would not compromise. Don’t be scared to ask for someone higher up in the chain either, if your salesguy is dismissive – the goal, technically, is to keep the Peugeot. For that, Peugeot has to move. In my opinion, or if it were my car, at least.
Prior: SEAT Ateca Xcellence Lux 1.5 TSI DSG MY19, VW Golf GTE PHEV DSG MY23
Current: Hyundai Ioniq 6 Ultimate
Next: we'll see what's available in 2028.