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If you want to drive newer, safer, more reliable vehicles, prefer not make a large down payment every few years, and also do not drive an exorbitant amount annually, then a new car lease may be better for you. Leasing is intended for those who would prefer to avert the hassle of selling and buying every time they want to drive a new car or SUV.
Conversely, if you prefer long term relationships with a greater sense of commitment and ownership, then buying should be what’s better for you. Car-buying is typically best for drivers who do not mind driving the same car for more than five years or even until it is no longer suitable for the freeway.
Being aware of the pros, cons, and overall benefits of leasing vs buying a car or SUV is critical. Be sure to examine factors like potential savings, vehicle ownership, monthly payments, and repair costs when calculating the best new vehicle financing type for you.
When it comes to vehicle financing, new car or SUV ownership absolutely comes with many well-known advantages, most associated with outright ownership of the car. You may not realize, but, there are also a few great benefits of leasing, as well. It’s essential to consider all financial aspects including term length, down payment, monthly payments, buyout payments, interest rate, depreciation, and maintenance & repair costs, before making a decision. A close checkup of your current financial situation, future needs, and your preference for commitment, will likely ensure that you make the optimal choice between leasing and buying a new car or SUV.
Car or SUV lease payments are often times less expensive compared to auto loan and car financing payments as the typical lease structure is pretty much renting with the option to purchase at the final payment of your lease term. Consider when leasing that you’re going to need a healthy credit score, and will be required to carry collision and comprehensive insurance, although the same can be said for the best rate auto loans. Though it can likely add to monthly payments, it’s also smart to choose 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 keep this in mind when calculating monthly costs of ownership vs leasing. Regardless of what make and model you buy, mechanic bills are an uncertain cost that can rapidly add up. And for those of us who are not certified auto mechanics with a hydraulic jack and full toolset in the garage, leasing might be the best option for peace of mind.
In general, a new car or SUV 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 or SUV at the time it is traded, sold, or paid-off. For best savings on a lease, avoid lease return fees for terminating the vehicle lease early, going over mileage, or putting on excessive wear and tear. For maximum investment on a purchased/financed vehicle, you can pay it off quickly and also avoid excessive wear and mileage.
| Lease | Buy | |
| New Vehicles | Available | Available |
| Pre-Owned Vehicles | Not Available | Available |
| Vehicle Customization | Not Available | Available |
| Poor Credit Financing | Not Available | Available |
| APR % | Credit-Based | Credit-Based |
| Ownership | No Ownership | Pride of Ownership |
| Down Payment | Smaller Down Payment | Larger Down Payment |
| Monthly Payment | Smaller Monthly Payments | Larger Monthly Payments |
| Savings/Investment | Short Term Savings | Long Term Investment |
| Finance Term | Approx. 2-4 Years | Approx. 3-6 Years |
| Maintenance & Repair Costs | Typically Included | Not Included |
Volkswagen of Alamo Heights knows that choosing the right Volkswagen car and financing option is never easy. Our team of experienced Volkswagen lease and finance specialists are on hand to help you make the right choice. Visit us online, by phone, or in-person at our dealership located in San Antonio, TX. We look forward to serving you.
