Let’s set one thing straight:
There’s no “best” lease term - only what works for you. Get it wrong though, and you may well be miserable for some time.
2025: The UK Chose Shorter Leases
According to Leasing.com’s 2025 Insight Report, 24-month leases were the most popular, making up 40.3 % of all enquiries.
Translation:
People don’t want to be locked in. They want flexibility. They want options. They want newer cars faster. They want to be in the latest conversations involving cars.
Who Actually Wants What Lease?
There are three big term choices, and a couple either side. Here’s how we see it:
18-Month Leases
They’re rare. And there are reasons why:
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A manufacturer needs to shift stock
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A model’s about to be replaced
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Someone, somewhere, misjudged demand
Translation:
You don’t go looking for an 18-month lease. It finds you.
24-Month Leases
The number one choice (for now). Perfect if:
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You like change & fresh tech
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You’re testing EV life
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You refuse to drive outdated models
Translation:
Short commitment. New car sooner. Minimal regret. Two years feels… safe.
36-Month Leases
This is where the sensible drivers land. It’s the classic lease length because it balances:
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Monthly cost & commitment
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Mileage flexibility
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Depreciation risk
Translation:
Think of it like the Goldilocks term. Not too long, not too short - just right.
48-Month Leases
A lower monthly payment but longer commitment works if:
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You keep cars for ages anyway
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You don’t care about chasing the latest thing
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You just want the number as low as possible
Translation:
The budget-first decision. Not great if boredom kicks in quickly.
60-Month Leases
For the extremely committed. Five years. Same car. No plot twists. Suited to:
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High-mileage drivers
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Commercial users
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People who really hate changing cars
Translation:
If you’re the type who still has the same phone from 2019, this might be you.
A Short Summit Summary
No judgement. Just honesty.
- Short-term fling → 18 months
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Hate commitment → 24 months
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Want balance → 36 months
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Careful consistency → 48 months
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Planning to grow old together → 60 months
Why The 24-Month Lease Is So Popular
People are choosing flexibility and short leases because they let you pivot between:
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New tech & models
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New fuel types
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Better deals when markets shift
Leasing.com reported that Monthly costs dropped in 2025, meaning leasing is cheaper across the board, which probably nudged people toward shorter terms.
Summit Says
You don’t need a spreadsheet to decide - you need clarity. Leasing isn’t about being cheap; it’s about being smart. Don’t let emotion cloud the decision, and try not to default to your favourite brands.
This time around, a different deal might simply make more sense. Still need more help? Read our 2026 Car leasing Guide.
