Compare paying cash, financing, and leasing by real total cost — not just the monthly payment, which can be misleading.
The car
Costs that apply to any option
Leasing only
Fill in the vehicle price to see the comparison.
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Cash is almost always cheaper in total cost because you avoid interest entirely — but it only makes sense if it doesn't compromise your emergency fund or other goals.
It's essentially renting the car for a fixed term. It makes sense if you value driving something new every few years more than ownership, but you never build equity in the vehicle.
A new car can lose 20-30% of its value in the first year, and up to 15% annually after that — it's one of the fastest-depreciating assets you can own.