New Car Lead Times in the UK

The process of getting a new lease car is always exciting, but one thing many drivers don’t think about early enough is how long their new car will take to arrive. Lead times can chop and change throughout the year, so doing a bit of research before you order can save you a lot of stress, especially if you need a car quickly.

The good news is that new car delivery times continue to improve into 2026, and the industry is in a much more stable position than it was 18-24 months ago. That means plenty of choice, shorter waits, and fewer unexpected delays. 

In this guide, you'll find the latest lead times for popular manufacturers, along with practical tips to help get behind the wheel sooner, whether that's a factory order or in-stock vehicle. 

A car lead time is the amount of time it takes for your new lease car to be delivered from the point of order. It's essentially your wait time until the vehicle arrives. 

Lead times vary because not every car is immediately available. Some vehicles are factory builds, while others are sitting in stock and ready for delivery. 

The exact lead time can also change depending on the model you choose, trim level, paint colour, optional extras, and how busy the manufacturer is at the time. 

That's why it's always worth checking lead times before you order, especially if you need a car by a specific date! 

NOTE: Lead times may vary depending on a specific model. The times below are an average and are correct as of January 2026. 

The below lead times are an estimate based on information supplied by the manufacturer and do not constitute an obligation to supply the vehicle in the time specified. 

Car lead times can change frequently, and it’s not always down to the manufacturer. There are a lot of moving parts involved, and if just one step is delayed, it can knock the whole timeline back.

Here are a few common things that affect lead times:

• Order type - In-stock lease cars are usually the quickest route, while factory orders tend to take the longest.
• Engine type - Hybrids and EVs can be more variable because battery supply and demand can fluctuate.
• Trim level - The more specific your trim and options, the longer it can take, as the manufacturer needs to build to that exact spec.
• Transport and logistics - Shipping schedules, ports, delivery driver availability, and even weather conditions can all affect timing.

A few clever choices can go a long way in cutting down your wait. If you’re working to a deadline, these are the simplest ways to speed things up:

• Choose an in-stock lease deal - In-stock cars can be ready for delivery soon after you order, with lead times often under 6 weeks.
• Be flexible on colour and trim - Entry-level trims are usually built in larger batches, so sticking to standard specs can keep lead times lower.
• Consider alternatives - With so much competition now, it’s often easy to find a similar car with a shorter wait. For example, if an Audi A3 Sportback has a long lead time, you could also consider a SEAT Leon or Volkswagen Golf.

If delivery time is a key factor, we’re here to make it simple. Whether you want the quickest possible handover or you’re happy to wait for the right spec, we’ll help you understand your options and keep things moving.

Call our helpful leasing team on 0345 811 9595 and we’ll check the latest lead times, talk you through the process, and help you find the best deal, including fast-delivery and in-stock cars.