Does anyone know exactly what the "delayed availability" on VDC with manual transmissions means? ... Does it mean that models where VDC is standard (like the 6-spd offroad) will initially be sold without VDC -- or does it mean that the 6-spd offroad will not be available at all for a few months until the VDC for manual transmissions is available?

It means they are sold without VDC. I believe April production will have the VDC on the manuals.