The automotive industry settles into the core of the leasing year in February. The previous model year?s inventory is pretty much all cleared away, the gift-giving holidays are a couple of months behind us, and the President?s Day long weekend provides a bonus shopping opportunity. And if you?re one of those industrious types who files your income taxes right away, you might have tax-refund money burning a hole in your pocket.
This isn?t meant to be a comprehensive database. Instead it?s a survey of the deals around the $199 price point offered on manufacturer websites. They beckon you into a world where you always drive a newish vehicle and maybe a nicer vehicle than what you could pay for outright. Still, these are commodity cars and trucks, the new vehicles that hit the road in huge numbers. That doesn?t mean there?s nothing here for enthusiasts, but don?t expect six-figure profilers. Getting the absolute best deal means putting in work beyond reading this story. It means researching not only what vehicle to lease but also doing some smart shopping for the financial products that support your acquisition. A lease is a contract, and the elements of that contract are negotiable at some level. And it may be that working with a bank, a leasing company, or a credit union could yield an even better deal than what the manufacturers offer; it never hurts to shop around. Keep in mind that these offers generally require a stellar credit rating. Those of us with lousier financial ...