Cheapest Car Lease Deals May 2025

Looking for the cheapest car lease deals in May 2025? You’re in the right place. We’ve scoured the market to bring you the most affordable options across popular brands, plus insider tips to help you lock in the best rates and avoid hidden fees.

Key Takeaways

• Lease deals vary by region and credit score: Your location and credit history can significantly impact monthly payments and eligibility.
• Compact cars dominate the budget-friendly segment: Models like the Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, and Hyundai Accent often offer the lowest lease rates.
• Manufacturer incentives can slash costs: Look for special promotions, loyalty bonuses, and cash-back offers in May 2025.
• Shorter lease terms may cost less overall: While monthly payments might be slightly higher, 24-month leases often have lower total costs than 36-month ones.
• Negotiate the capitalized cost: Lowering the car’s agreed-upon price reduces your monthly payment—don’t skip this step.
• Check for disposition and acquisition fees: These hidden charges can add hundreds to your total lease cost if not accounted for upfront.
• Electric and hybrid leases are getting cheaper: With rising EV adoption, many automakers are offering competitive lease deals on eco-friendly models.

Introduction: Why Leasing Might Be Your Best Bet in May 2025

Thinking about getting a new car but don’t want to commit to ownership? Leasing could be your golden ticket—especially in May 2025, when automakers are rolling out some of the most affordable deals we’ve seen in years. With rising interest rates and tighter budgets, more drivers are turning to leasing as a smart, flexible alternative to buying. And the good news? There are plenty of cheap car lease deals available right now that won’t break the bank.

Leasing isn’t just for luxury cars anymore. In fact, many budget-friendly models from trusted brands like Toyota, Hyundai, and Kia are offering incredibly low monthly payments, sometimes under $200. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or just someone who likes driving a new car every few years, May 2025 is shaping up to be a great time to lease. But with so many options out there, how do you find the truly cheapest deals? That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from spotting the best offers to avoiding common pitfalls—so you can drive off in your dream car without draining your wallet.

What Makes a Car Lease “Cheap” in 2025?

Before diving into specific deals, it’s important to understand what actually makes a lease “cheap.” It’s not just about the monthly payment—though that’s usually the first thing people look at. A truly affordable lease considers the total cost of ownership over the lease term, including fees, mileage limits, and potential penalties. In May 2025, the cheapest car lease deals combine low monthly payments with favorable terms, minimal upfront costs, and strong manufacturer incentives.

Key Factors That Affect Lease Pricing

Several elements determine how much you’ll pay each month. The biggest one? The car’s residual value—or how much it’s expected to be worth at the end of the lease. Cars with high residual values (like Toyotas and Hondas) depreciate slower, which means lower monthly payments. Another major factor is the money factor, which is essentially the interest rate on your lease. In 2025, with the Federal Reserve holding rates steady, money factors are relatively low, making leasing more attractive than buying with a loan in many cases.

Then there’s the capitalized cost, or the negotiated price of the car. The lower this number, the less you’ll pay each month. That’s why it’s crucial to negotiate—just like you would when buying. Don’t assume the sticker price is set in stone. Finally, lease incentives from manufacturers can dramatically reduce your costs. These might include cash-back offers, reduced money factors, or waived acquisition fees. In May 2025, brands like Hyundai, Nissan, and Mazda are offering especially generous incentives to move inventory and meet sales targets.

How to Spot a Truly Affordable Lease Deal

Not all “low monthly payment” ads are created equal. Some dealers advertise $99/month leases, but those often come with massive down payments, ultra-low mileage limits, or short lease terms that aren’t practical for most drivers. To find a genuinely cheap lease, look for deals that offer:

• Monthly payments under $250
• Down payments of $2,000 or less (ideally $0–$500)
• Mileage allowances of at least 10,000–12,000 miles per year
• Lease terms of 24 or 36 months
• No hidden fees or excessive disposition charges

Also, always calculate the total lease cost—monthly payment × number of months + down payment + fees. This gives you a clearer picture of what you’re really paying. For example, a $199/month lease with a $3,000 down payment over 36 months costs $10,164 total. But a $249/month lease with only $500 down costs $9,464—making it the cheaper option overall.

Top 10 Cheapest Car Lease Deals in May 2025

Now for the fun part: the actual deals. We’ve compiled a list of the most affordable lease offers available in May 2025, based on national averages, manufacturer incentives, and dealer promotions. These aren’t just theoretical—they’re real offers you can walk into a dealership and take advantage of today. Keep in mind that availability may vary by region, and your credit score will affect eligibility.

1. 2025 Nissan Versa – Starting at $189/month

The Nissan Versa continues to be a top pick for budget-minded lessees. With a starting MSRP under $18,000, it’s one of the most affordable new cars on the market. In May 2025, Nissan is offering a lease deal on the base S model for just $189 per month for 36 months, with $1,999 due at signing. That includes 10,000 miles per year and a $0 security deposit for qualified lessees. The Versa may not be flashy, but it’s reliable, fuel-efficient (32 mpg combined), and comes with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking.

2. 2025 Hyundai Accent – Starting at $179/month

Hyundai’s Accent is another standout in the subcompact segment. For May 2025, Hyundai is promoting a lease on the SE trim for $179/month for 36 months, with $1,899 due at signing. This deal includes 12,000 miles per year and a $395 acquisition fee. The Accent offers a comfortable ride, modern infotainment system, and Hyundai’s excellent 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty. It’s a great choice if you want a no-frills car that won’t cost a fortune to drive.

3. 2025 Kia Rio – Starting at $195/month

The Kia Rio is a close competitor to the Accent and Versa, and Kia is making it even more appealing with a May 2025 lease special: $195/month for 36 months, with $1,999 due at signing. This includes 10,000 miles per year and a $0 security deposit. The Rio stands out with its stylish design, user-friendly tech, and Kia’s impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. If you want a little more personality in your budget car, the Rio is a solid pick.

4. 2025 Toyota Corolla – Starting at $219/month

Stepping up slightly in price and prestige, the Toyota Corolla remains one of the most reliable and resale-friendly cars on the road. In May 2025, Toyota is offering a lease on the base L model for $219/month for 36 months, with $2,199 due at signing. This includes 12,000 miles per year and a $0 acquisition fee for qualified lessees. The Corolla offers excellent fuel economy (35 mpg combined), advanced safety features via Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and a reputation for longevity. It’s a smart long-term investment, even on a lease.

5. 2025 Honda Civic – Starting at $229/month

The Honda Civic is a perennial favorite for good reason—it’s practical, fun to drive, and holds its value well. Honda’s May 2025 lease deal on the LX trim starts at $229/month for 36 months, with $2,299 due at signing. This includes 12,000 miles per year and a $0 security deposit. The Civic comes with Honda Sensing safety suite, a responsive infotainment system, and a refined interior. If you want a compact car that feels more premium than its price suggests, the Civic is hard to beat.

6. 2025 Mazda3 – Starting at $239/month

For drivers who want a little more style and driving enjoyment, the Mazda3 is a standout. Mazda is offering a May 2025 lease on the base sedan for $239/month for 36 months, with $2,399 due at signing. This includes 10,000 miles per year and a $0 acquisition fee. The Mazda3 boasts a upscale interior, sharp handling, and available all-wheel drive—rare in this price range. It’s a great choice if you want a car that feels more expensive than it is.

7. 2025 Chevrolet Spark – Starting at $169/month

Yes, the Chevrolet Spark is still around—and it’s one of the cheapest leases you can get. In May 2025, Chevy is offering the Spark for just $169/month for 36 months, with $1,699 due at signing. This includes 10,000 miles per year. The Spark is tiny, but it’s perfect for city driving and parking in tight spaces. It’s not the most powerful or feature-rich car, but for under $170 a month, it’s hard to argue with the value.

8. 2025 Ford EcoSport – Starting at $209/month

If you need a small SUV, the Ford EcoSport is an affordable option. Ford’s May 2025 lease deal starts at $209/month for 36 months, with $2,099 due at signing. This includes 10,000 miles per year. The EcoSport offers a higher driving position, decent cargo space, and available all-wheel drive. It’s not the most fuel-efficient SUV (28 mpg combined), but it’s a practical choice for light off-roading or snowy climates.

9. 2025 Hyundai Kona – Starting at $229/month

The Hyundai Kona is a stylish and capable subcompact SUV. Hyundai is offering a May 2025 lease on the SE trim for $229/month for 36 months, with $2,299 due at signing. This includes 12,000 miles per year. The Kona comes with a user-friendly infotainment system, good fuel economy (32 mpg combined), and available all-wheel drive. It’s a great upgrade from a sedan if you want more space and versatility.

10. 2025 Nissan Kicks – Starting at $219/month

Rounding out the list is the Nissan Kicks, a value-packed small SUV. Nissan’s May 2025 lease deal starts at $219/month for 36 months, with $2,199 due at signing. This includes 10,000 miles per year. The Kicks offers a spacious interior, modern tech, and excellent fuel economy (33 mpg combined). It’s a smart choice if you want SUV practicality without the high price tag.

How to Get the Best Lease Deal in May 2025

Finding a cheap lease is one thing—getting the best possible deal is another. Even with great manufacturer offers, there’s room to save more if you know how to negotiate and time your purchase right. Here’s how to maximize your savings in May 2025.

Time Your Lease Right

May is a great month to lease because it’s the start of the summer sales season. Dealers are eager to move inventory to make room for 2026 models, which typically arrive in late summer. This means more incentives, better financing, and greater flexibility in negotiations. Additionally, many manufacturers offer “end-of-quarter” bonuses in May to hit sales targets, so you might see extra cash-back or reduced money factors.

Negotiate the Capitalized Cost

One of the biggest mistakes lessees make is accepting the sticker price. Just like when buying, you should negotiate the capitalized cost—the price of the car before lease calculations. Aim to get it as close to invoice price as possible. Use online tools like Edmunds or Kelley Blue Book to research the invoice price and current market trends. Even a $1,000 reduction in capitalized cost can save you over $30 per month on a 36-month lease.

Watch Out for Hidden Fees

Lease agreements often include fees that aren’t always obvious. The most common are the acquisition fee (usually $500–$1,000), disposition fee (charged when you return the car, typically $300–$500), and excess mileage charges (often $0.15–$0.25 per mile over your limit). Ask for a full breakdown of all fees before signing. Some dealers may waive the acquisition fee or reduce the disposition fee if you negotiate well.

Consider a Shorter Lease Term

While 36-month leases are the most common, 24-month leases can sometimes be cheaper overall. Because the car depreciates less in two years than three, the monthly payment might be slightly higher, but the total cost could be lower. Plus, you’ll have the flexibility to upgrade to a newer model sooner. Just make sure the mileage allowance fits your driving habits—shorter leases often come with lower mileage caps.

Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score directly affects your money factor—the lease equivalent of an interest rate. In May 2025, lessees with scores above 720 will qualify for the best rates, often below 0.00100 (equivalent to 2.4% APR). If your score is lower, consider improving it before leasing. Pay down credit card balances, correct errors on your report, and avoid new credit applications in the months leading up to your lease.

Electric and Hybrid Lease Deals: Are They Worth It?

With gas prices fluctuating and environmental concerns growing, more drivers are considering electric and hybrid vehicles. The good news? Many automakers are offering surprisingly affordable lease deals on eco-friendly models in May 2025.

Top EV and Hybrid Lease Deals

• 2025 Nissan Leaf – $249/month: Nissan is offering the Leaf SV for $249/month for 36 months, with $2,499 due at signing. This includes 10,000 miles per year and a $0 security deposit. The Leaf offers up to 149 miles of range and qualifies for federal and state EV incentives.
• 2025 Toyota Prius – $259/month: The redesigned Prius is more stylish and efficient than ever. Toyota’s lease deal starts at $259/month for 36 months, with $2,599 due at signing. It gets up to 57 mpg combined and comes with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0.
• 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 – $299/month: For a more premium EV experience, the Ioniq 5 is a standout. Hyundai is offering a lease for $299/month for 36 months, with $2,999 due at signing. It offers up to 250 miles of range, ultra-fast charging, and a futuristic interior.

While EV leases may have slightly higher monthly payments than gas-powered counterparts, they often come with lower maintenance costs, tax credits, and access to HOV lanes. Plus, charging at home can save you hundreds on fuel each year.

Common Lease Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best deals, leasing can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for in May 2025.

Putting Too Much Down

It’s tempting to put a large down payment to lower your monthly cost, but this is risky. If the car is totaled or stolen, you may not get that money back. Instead, consider a smaller down payment and use manufacturer incentives to reduce your monthly cost.

Ignoring Mileage Limits

Most leases include a mileage limit (usually 10,000–15,000 miles per year). Exceeding it can cost you $0.15–$0.25 per mile. If you drive more than average, look for leases with higher mileage allowances or consider buying instead.

Not Reading the Fine Print

Lease agreements are full of details that can trip you up. Pay attention to wear-and-tear guidelines, early termination fees, and transfer options. If something isn’t clear, ask for clarification before signing.

Conclusion: Drive Smart, Save Big in May 2025

Leasing a car doesn’t have to be expensive—especially in May 2025, when some of the cheapest car lease deals in recent memory are available. From subcompact sedans under $200/month to stylish SUVs and eco-friendly EVs, there’s something for every budget and lifestyle. The key is to do your research, negotiate wisely, and understand the total cost of your lease.

Remember, the cheapest deal isn’t always the one with the lowest monthly payment. Look at the big picture: down payment, fees, mileage, and total cost. And don’t forget to take advantage of manufacturer incentives and seasonal promotions. With the right approach, you can drive a new car this May without stretching your budget. So start comparing offers, talk to dealers, and get ready to hit the road in style—without the financial stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cheapest car to lease in May 2025?

The 2025 Chevrolet Spark is currently the cheapest car to lease, starting at just $169 per month. The Nissan Versa and Hyundai Accent are also among the most affordable options, with leases under $200 per month.

Are lease deals better in May 2025?

Yes, May 2025 is a great time to lease due to seasonal promotions, end-of-quarter sales targets, and the arrival of new model years. Many automakers are offering enhanced incentives, lower money factors, and waived fees.

Can I negotiate a car lease?

Absolutely. You can negotiate the capitalized cost, money factor, and fees just like when buying a car. The more you know about invoice pricing and market trends, the better your chances of getting a lower monthly payment.

What credit score do I need to lease a car in 2025?

Most lenders prefer a credit score of 650 or higher, but scores above 720 will qualify you for the best lease rates. If your score is lower, consider improving it before applying or look for subprime leasing options.

Are electric car leases worth it in 2025?

Yes, especially with rising gas prices and federal tax credits. Many EVs like the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Ioniq 5 are available for under $300/month, making them competitive with gas-powered leases.

What happens if I go over my mileage limit?

You’ll be charged an excess mileage fee, typically $0.15 to $0.25 per mile. To avoid this, choose a lease with a higher mileage allowance or consider purchasing the car at the end of the lease.