I’m in the same predicament - I’m leasing an Audi and can’t get out of it. The value of the car is about $13k less than payoff. As well, their lease transfer option is ridiculous. I’ll never lease, nor buy, another Audi, again.
Many brands (especially since covid) captive lenders have policies similar to audi. I’m not a fan of charging a higher amount to a third party but at least you have the option if you want to take the hit. Some of the lenders allow NO option for a 3rd party payoff at all even with a price increase. You will find it hard to shop many brands if you won’t buy one that doesn’t restrict lease payoffs in some way (many are dropping this as covid supply issues are gone for the most part)
You absolutely can get out of it.
The contract you agreed to when you accepted the car lists your options, along with any formulas necessary to calculate costs.
Your main concerns seem to be about the value of an asset that doesn’t belong to you, and the fact that you cannot exercise contractual rights that you do not have.
Leases are confusing for a lot of people, which is why I don’t recommend anyone entering into one unless they have a thorough understanding of their rights and obligations, as well as the pros and cons compared to purchasing.
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