lizardgirl- Are you refering to Disney Channel UK or the original Disney Channel, because Cars wasn’t as big in Europe, and DVD sales weren’t as strong, that may be why. Anyways, I know for a fact that in the US they premiered Finding Nemo for REGULAR (non-special) programming last year, and the same goes with The Incredibles for this year. I don’t know what the policy is in other countries, though. 
martini- I’m referring to Disney Channel UK, and that’s a very good explanation as to why it’s premiered so early over here! I hadn’t thought about that. 
Anyway, back on topic…