Buy or lease a Kia: the basics to understand
If you are hesitating between leasing or buying a car, there are several crucial differences to consider.
First, buying allows you to become the owner of a vehicle, which is particularly beneficial if you want to keep your car for a long time or if you drive a lot.
Over the long term, this option is often more economical, since you repay your auto loan to become the owner.
Leasing, on the other hand, is an excellent way to use a car while enjoying the freedom to change vehicles without worry.
However, leasing can include mileage limits, for example, which makes this option less suitable for those who plan to travel a lot.
In the short term, leasing is also more affordable, since the monthly payments are lower.
When buying a Kia is the best choice
Buying a Kia offers several advantages over leasing.
If you tend to keep a vehicle as long as possible, buying a Kia allows you to find a reliable car that will serve you long after the payments are done.
If you drive a lot, whether for pleasure or work, owning a car helps you avoid mileage limits that can be part of lease agreements.
In addition, Kia accessories and equipment packages are very appealing for personalizing your vehicle, and that is entirely within your rights when you own the car.
In short, for maximum flexibility with a vehicle, buying a Kia makes sense. In Quebec, SUV models such as the Seltos and the Sportage are very popular, since a vehicle ready to take on winter is often required.
Why choose leasing for your next Kia
Leasing also comes with clear benefits. If you love the feeling of getting into a new vehicle, leasing allows you to switch frequently without the hassle of selling your previous car.
It also helps reduce monthly payments while keeping your vehicle under the full Kia warranty for as long as you have it.
Kia lets you lease a vehicle with a mileage allowance that suits your daily routine.
Your financial situation: cash purchase, financing or leasing
Paying cash is an excellent choice if you can and want to eliminate financing charges.
Because it requires significant funds, this option is often limited to used cars. For example, buying an older used Kia for $5,000 lets you own a car outright, with no payments to worry about.
In general, purchasing goes through financing. The exact interest rate depends on your financial situation and the car you choose. In Quebec, rates generally range between 5% and 9%.
This rate is applied annually to the remaining principal, which means the faster you repay, the less you pay overall. For example, on a $30,000 car at a 5% interest rate, you would pay $31,500 over the first year.
From the interest rate to your monthly payment
If you pay $15,000 over the first year, 5% will be applied to the remaining $16,500 on your loan, which means you would pay $17,325 over the second year.
Of course, financing is often already calculated to offer fixed monthly payments you must make to reach the final objective over a predetermined period.
Finally, leasing involves a fixed-term contract that guarantees a monthly payment in exchange for the right to use the leased vehicle.
Your driving habits influence your choice
If you commute to work every day but do not otherwise use your vehicle more than average, a leased vehicle can suit you very well.
However, for those who drive more kilometres or tend to travel a lot in winter, in conditions that put more wear on the vehicle, buying can turn out to be a much better option.
In fact, the terms of a lease contract often make this option more restrictive for those who drive a lot or in difficult conditions.
In short, consider your driving habits in your final choice between buying or leasing a car.
Tax advantages and warranties based on your status
Whether you buy a new car or you lease, Kia will always offer an advantageous warranty, up to 5 years or 100,000 km with purchase.
In addition, if you are self-employed or represent a business, it is usually possible to deduct the purchase or lease of a car from your taxes, as long as the car is used in your professional duties.
Be sure you fully understand possible deductions and how they apply to your situation before you move forward with leasing or buying a car.
Make the right choice at Kia Chambly
If you are still unsure of the perfect solution for your needs and lifestyle, we are here to guide you.
| |
Cash purchase |
48-month financing |
60-month financing |
48-month leasing |
| Down payment |
100% of price |
Partial |
Partial |
Partial |
| Monthly payment |
None |
Higher |
Lower |
Lowest |
| Total cost |
Lowest |
Medium |
Higher than 48 months |
Variable based on kilometres |
| Owner at the end |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No (unless buyout) |
| Kilometres |
Unlimited |
Unlimited |
Unlimited |
Contractually limited |
| Flexibility |
Total |
Good |
Good |
Limited |
| Ideal for |
Available liquidity |
Balance of cost and term |
Minimizing monthly payments |
Changing vehicles frequently |
Exact payments vary based on the model chosen, the down payment, and your credit history. Speak with a Kia Chambly advisor for a personalized estimate.
Book an appointment with a Kia Chambly expert to find the solution that fits you, then get behind the wheel of a leased or purchased Kia today. Kia Chambly is your Kia dealership.