If you prefer to drive newer, safer, more reliable vehicles, but prefer not pay a large down payment every few years, and also don’t travel an enormous amount yearly, then a new car lease should be better for you. Leasing is intended for people who prefer to avoid the annoyance of buying and selling every time they want to upgrade to a new car, truck, or SUV.
On the other hand, if you want long term automotive relationships with a higher sense of commitment and ownership, then buying could be what’s ideal for you. Car-buying is typically best for those who will not mind driving the same car or truck for over five years or even until the vehicle is no longer suitable for the highway.
Being aware of the pros, cons, and overall benefits of leasing vs buying a car, truck, or SUV is critical. Be sure to look at monthly payments, vehicle ownership, repair costs, and potential savings when weighing the pros and cons of the best new vehicle financing type for you.
When weighing the value of vehicle financing, new car ownership certainly comes with many advantages, most associated with complete ownership of the vehicle. You may not be aware, however, there are also some great benefits of leasing, as well. It’s essential to consider all financial aspects including depreciation, down payment, monthly payments, term length, buyout payments, interest rate, and maintenance & repair costs, before making a decision. A precise inspection of your current financial situation, future needs, and your preference for commitment, will likely ensure that you make the ideal choice between leasing and buying a new car, truck, or SUV.
Car lease payments are often times less expensive in comparison to car financing and loan payments as the standard lease structure is basically renting with the option to buy out near the final payment of your lease term. Keep in mind when leasing that you will need a good credit score, and will be required to carry comprehensive and collision insurance, although the same can be said for the lowest rate auto loans. Although it can add to monthly payments, it is also best to get a model with the features you need or want, as personal satisfaction is often priceless.
Auto leases often include regular vehicle maintenance & repair. It is important to remember this when calculating monthly costs of ownership vs leasing. Regardless of what make and model you select, mechanic bills are an uncertain cost that can quickly add up. And for those of us who aren’t certified mechanics with a full toolset and hydraulic jack in the garage, leasing can be the best option for peace of mind.
In general, a new car or truck lease saves money in the short term with lower monthly payments, while buying earns you a long term investment, meaning outright ownership of the value of the car at the time it is traded, sold, or paid-off. For best value on a lease, avoid lease return fees for terminating the vehicle lease early, going over mileage, or putting on excessive wear and tear. For your best investment on a financed/purchased vehicle, you can pay it off in a shorter term and also avoid excessive wear and mileage.
| Lease | Buy | |
| Maintenance & Repair Costs | Typically Included | Not Included |
| Down Payment | Smaller Down Payment | Larger Down Payment |
| Monthly Payment | Smaller Monthly Payments | Larger Monthly Payments |
| Ownership | No Ownership | Pride of Ownership |
| APR % | Credit-Based | Credit-Based |
| Finance Term | Approx. 2-4 Years | Approx. 3-6 Years |
| Savings/Investment | Short Term Savings | Long Term Investment |
| Vehicle Customization | Not Available | Available |
| Pre-Owned Vehicles | Not Available | Available |
| Poor Credit Financing | Not Available | Available |
| New Vehicles | Available | Available |
Kia of South Austin knows that choosing the right Kia car and financing option is never easy. Our team of experienced Kia lease and finance specialist are on hand to help you make the right choice. Visit us online, by phone, or in-person at our dealership location in Austin, TX. We look forward to serving you.
(512) 444-6635
Call Now5306 S IH 35 Frontage Rd • Austin, TX 78745
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Open Today! Parts: 7am-6pm
