The last few years have certainly been a strain on all our bank accounts. With rising costs across the board, you're not alone if you've been considering a low cost lease car.
Budget lease cars are a great way to save a bit of money, and they often come with a superb reliability record and fuel efficient engines. You really can't go wrong with a low-cost car.
But which low-cost car should you go for?
In this blog, we'll run you through why you should go for a low-cost car, the best low-cost auto leases available in the UK, and how to find the best deals.
We discuss:
If you're reading this, it's probably because it's that time of year when you need to get your head switched on to what your next car will be. You'll be scrolling through pages and pages of websites flooded by cars, but the price puts you off.
I don't blame you. There's no denying that car prices have skyrocketed in the last few years, but there are still some great low-cost deals out there.
Leasing a low cost car can be a savvy financial move, keeping more money in your pocket for other expenses. You'll also get a brand-new car with great technology, a reliable engine, and fuel efficiency.
So don't worry, you won't have to sacrifice too much style and performance for affordability.
Kia Picanto
If you're after a compact and economical car, the Kia Picanto is a great choice. Perfect for city drivers, small families, and first-time drivers, it's known for its reliability and low running costs.
For a low cost, it also comes with a relatively smart interior. Features include smartphone integration, charging ports throughout the cabin, and an eight-inch touchscreen display.
It also comes with Kia's seven-year or 100,000-mile manufacturer's warranty.
Hyundai i10
Another brilliant option in the low-cost category is the Hyundai i10. Small, reliable, and equipped with a range of modern features, it's ideal for city dwellers and first-time drivers.
It's powered by a 1.0-litre or 1.2-litre petrol engine that can return in excess of 45mpg. Although hybrid technology isn't available, all engines come with Idle Stop and Go (ISG) which automatically turns off the engine when stationary to reduce fuel consumption.
Volkswagen T-Cross
If you're after an SUV, don't worry, the Volkswagen T-Cross has you covered. One of the best low-cost SUV cars you can lease, it's available at an affordable price and comes with an impressive range of kit.
You'll get an eight-inch display, ambient lighting, and various driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and dynamic road sign display.
It's powered by either a 1.0-litre or 1.5-litre petrol engine, but we'd recommend the smaller version as it gets a fuel economy in the 50s.
Nissan Qashqai
The Nissan Qashqai makes it onto pretty much every list regarding cars. But there's a good reason for this. It really is a fantastic car, and is great for those looking for a reliable, stylish, and low-cost 4x4.
It offers a great mix of practicality and style, and the new 2024 model comes with some great technology, such as a 12-inch touchscreen display, a rear-view camera, and a personalised driving experience.
It comes with a mild-hybrid engine that returns up to 55mpg and is also available as a self-charging hybrid, labelled e-Power.
Audi A1
Audi is often a manufacturer that people associate with a high cost, but not with the Audi A1. The most affordable model in the Audi lineup, it offers a blend of their signature luxury style and performance at an affordable price.
The standout is its premium interior design. You'll get premium cloth seats, state-of-the-art technology, and a range of soft-touch plastics on the dashboard.
It can be challenging to find the best low-cost car leasing deals, but here it is from the horse's mouth:
- Shop around - Don't settle for the first deal you see. Compare offers on a range of sites to ensure you're getting the best deal possible.
- Understand your lease agreement - Before agreeing to a lease agreement, ensure you properly understand the terms of your lease, including mileage, maintenance, and any potential penalties.
- Consider your needs - Think about what you're going to use the vehicle for. Do you need a big car, or will a smaller car with a more economical engine suffice?
Leasing a car doesn't have to break the bank. With some research and the right approach, you can find a great low cost car deal that's perfect for you.
Whether you're looking for a reliable city car or a versatile crossover SUV, there are some seriously good low-cost lease options available.
Looking for more leasing advice? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts produce various guides, such as our Personal Leasing Guides and Young Drivers Guides.
We are also one of the UK's largest leasing brokers, offering a range of services and leasing deals to suit your every need.
Call us on 0345 811 9595 to secure your next lease deal.