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1 minute read
When Leasing Doesn’t Make Sense: How to Pick the Right Car for Your Budget
At RH Auto Brokers, we have conversations every day with people who are trying to decide whether leasing a vehicle makes sense for them. One of the biggest insights we share? Not every car leases well.
Before you get too deep into shopping, it’s important to stop and think about your situation and how you plan to use the vehicle. Are you commuting long distances? Need extra space for the family? Want the latest tech without owning long-term? These factors all play a role in whether leasing makes financial sense.
Why Some Cars Have Bad Lease Deals
Even if you fall in love with a specific car, if the residual value (how much the car is worth at the end of the lease) is low, the lease payment will be high. That means no matter what you do, it might just not work within your monthly budget.
That’s why we always recommend staying flexible. Instead of focusing solely on one model, consider alternatives that still meet your needs but come with stronger lease incentives and better residuals.
Real Example: Kia Telluride vs. Mazda CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid
We recently worked with a client who wanted to lease a Kia Telluride. For the mileage they needed—20,000 miles a year—the payment came out to $900/month.
We did some digging and found a Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid with excellent rebates and incentives. The monthly lease came out to $650/month, saving them $250 a month while still giving them the mileage they needed.
Did they love it as much as the Telluride? Maybe not. But they made a smart financial decision that saved them thousands over the life of the lease.
Tips to Lease Smart
Here are a few key takeaways to help you make the right decision:
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Not all vehicles lease well—look at the residual value and current incentives.
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Be flexible with your wishlist. A similar model might offer much better value.
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Match the lease to your lifestyle—especially your annual mileage.
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Work with an expert to explore all your options before committing.
Need Guidance?
If you’re unsure which vehicle to lease or if leasing is the right path at all, we’re here to help. Send us a message or DM, and we’ll walk you through the smartest choices based on your driving habits, needs, and budget.
At RH Auto Brokers, we help you make informed, confident car decisions—not just emotional ones. Let’s find a solution that fits you perfectly.
