Buy or lease a car in 2025? The truthful financial comparison

It's the eternal debate. Culturally, we like to "own" things. But with the rapid evolution of automotive technologies (particularly electric vehicles) and economic uncertainties, the notion of ownership is losing its appeal in favor of the notion of usage.

The hidden enemy of purchasing: Depreciation

When you buy a new car for €40,000, it is only worth €20,000 (or even less) after four years. That €20,000 loss is a real cost, even if it is not visible on a monthly basis.

  • When buying: You bear 100% of the risk of depreciation (and difficulty reselling).
  • Leasing: The lessor bears this risk. You only pay the difference between the new price and the estimated future value.

Budget control

  • Purchase/Credit: You pay your monthly credit installment, but a turbo failure, a $1,500 clutch replacement, or a battery problem can throw your monthly budget off balance.
  • Leasing: Everything is budgeted. With maintenance and repairs included, your car costs are fixed. This provides welcome financial security for households.

The verdict

  • Choose to buy if you keep your cars until the end of their life (8-10 years).
  • Choose leasing if you want to drive a recent, safe vehicle and change it every 3 to 5 years without the hassle of reselling.

Frequently asked questions about leasing or purchasing

The leasing guide See our FAQ

Can I buy the car at the end of the contract?

This is not automatic with long-term leasing. However, you can ask the leasing company if they will sell you the vehicle at market price when you return it.

What is private leasing?

What is Private Lease?

This is a long-term car rental contract with services, for an agreed duration and mileage, designed specifically for individuals.

The rent includes:

  • vehicle depreciation,
  • Road tax,
  • civil liability insurance,
  • Legal protection insurance (also known as legal defense)
  • driver insurance
  • Coverage for loss and damage to the vehicle (CASCO) (Optional)
  • maintenance and mechanical repair costs
  • roadside assistance (optional)
  • the "first immediate" replacement vehicle (Option)
  • summer and winter tires (provided depending on wear) (Optional)

The rental fee does not include fuel consumption and fines for traffic violations.

What exactly is Private Lease?

Private Lease (or LLD) is a long-term car rental for individuals. In exchange for a fixed monthly payment, you have a new vehicle without owning it. The payment covers use, maintenance, insurance, and taxes. At the end of the contract (e.g., 48 months), you simply return the vehicle.