I buy from whoever could get me the best price / cost to change cars. I would use the local dealer for servicing.
For me part of the fun of a new car is deciding the options you want vs the ones the dealer has chosen. That way it truly becomes your own car.
Think you are correct on dealers discounting, assuming the rest of the spec is identical. Perhaps they’ve had it on the books too long & need to keep the merry go round of stock going to keep their discounted rates on cars and need the sale.
Nice car choice by the way, the touring version has been missing forever.