The Most Popular Cars to Lease in 2025

Top 10 Most Popular Cars to Lease

Start by deciding the car make you want to lease. These are the top 10 most leased vehicle brands in the U.S. based on market share.

Most Popular Lease Makes

The Most Leased Models

SUVs continue to dominate the list of most leased car models in the U.S. Two electric vehicles (EVs) also made our list of the top 10 most leased vehicle models based on market share.

Most Popular Lease Models

The Most Leased EV Models

EVs accounted for 8.34% of all new vehicles purchased in the U.S., according to Experian data; they are also popular leased vehicles. Here are the most popular EV models to lease based on market share.

Most Leased EV Models

Leasing an EV is a popular option for consumers seeking to drive new vehicles for less than it would typically cost to purchase one. Experian data shows 23.62% of new vehicles were leased, compared to 26.12% in 2024 and 21.26% in 2023. On average, both lease and loan payments have increased compared to 2024, but the average monthly payment for leased vehicles was still $137 less than the average auto loan payment in Q2 2025.

When it comes to EVs, especially, a growing number of consumers are opting to lease instead of buy. Some 57.69% of new EV owners lease the vehicles, up from 46.6% last year, according to Experian data.

Learn more: Do Hybrid and Electric Cars Really Save You Money?

Leasing vs. Buying: What's the Best Option?

Whether leasing or buying a car is better for you depends on your budget, driving habits and vehicle preferences. In the short term, leasing a car typically involves a lower down payment and lower monthly payments than buying, which can make it a good fit if you're on a budget. The average monthly lease payment is $612, compared to an average monthly payment of $749 for a new car loan, according to Experian data.

If you enjoy always driving the latest car, leasing lets you update to a newer model every few years without the headaches of selling your vehicle. The average lease term lasts fewer than three years (35.47 months), compared to nearly seven years (68.87 months) for the average auto loan term. Because lease terms are so short, your leased vehicle is unlikely to need expensive repairs or maintenance during the lease, which can save you money and hassles.

However, there are downsides to leasing. Most auto leases restrict how many miles you can drive per year, for instance. You generally can't modify the vehicle in any way, and you'll typically be charged extra if you exceed mileage limits or the vehicle is damaged during the lease term.

Your monthly lease payments don't build equity, either. When the lease ends, the vehicle usually goes back to the lessor. Unless you have the option to buy your leased car, you'll have to find another set of wheels.

Buying a car typically costs more than leasing one, but when your loan is paid off, you'll own the vehicle outright. No more monthly payments means more wiggle room in your budget—and you'll have equity you can use by selling the car or trading it in for a newer model. Purchasing a car may also be a good fit for you if you tend to put lots of mileage on your car, want to be able to modify it and are content to drive an older vehicle.

Buying a car has its drawbacks, though. You'll generally need to make a 20% down payment if you want favorable loan terms and affordable monthly payments. A down payment that size could strain your budget, but putting down less than 20% increases the risk of your car's value dropping below your loan balance. If that happens, you'll end up with negative equity, or owing more than your car is worth. In addition, as your car gets older and the manufacturer's warranty expires, the cost of maintenance and repairs can add up.

The Bottom Line

Both leasing and financing a new vehicle generally require a good credit score if you want the most favorable lease or loan terms. Before you start car shopping, check your credit report and FICO^® Score^Θ for free with Experian to find out where you stand.

If you're not satisfied with the score you see, you may want to put your auto shopping on pause while you take steps to improve your credit score. Positive financial habits like paying bills on time and paying down debt could pay off in lower interest rates for your leased or financed vehicle.