The landscape of automotive acquisition has never been more complex, particularly for those considering a lease in 2024. With car prices soaring, interest rates remaining stubbornly high, and a perplexing mix of advanced technology alongside persistent glitches and recalls, navigating the market can feel like an insurmountable challenge. The dream of driving a brand-new SUV often collides with the harsh realities of financial prudence, making it imperative for consumers to approach leasing decisions with an informed and critical eye.
In an environment where a “good deal” feels like a relic of the past, understanding which vehicles represent a sound investment—or, more accurately, a managed expense—is paramount. Financial analysts and industry experts are increasingly vocal about specific models that, despite their initial appeal, simply do not offer favorable leasing conditions. This in-depth analysis aims to shine a spotlight on these particular SUVs, providing you with the unbiased, factual information you need to make wise choices, empowering you to avoid potential financial pitfalls in the dynamic 2024 market.
To truly grasp the intricacies of leasing and why certain vehicles fall short, it’s essential to be familiar with a few key terms. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is the foundational price point, setting the initial expectation at the dealership. More critically for leasing, the “residual value” represents the estimated worth of the car at the conclusion of its lease term. A higher residual value typically translates to a more attractive lease, as you’re essentially paying for the depreciation. Lastly, your “credit score”—a composite number from bureaus like Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion—plays a pivotal role, influencing everything from eligibility to the monthly payment rate. Calculated based on payment history, amounts owed, length of credit history, new inquiries, and credit mix, a higher score, such as the average U.S. score of 701, can unlock significantly better terms. These factors collectively determine the overall cost-effectiveness of a lease, guiding our focus on which SUVs to steer clear of.
1. **2024 Land Rover Discovery Sport**Seventh on financial advisor Matthew Long’s list, the 2024 Land Rover Discovery Sport is a prime example of a luxury vehicle with unfavorable lease terms. Priced at $52,700, lessees need at least a 700 credit score and face a substantial $875 monthly payment, according to Long’s analysis. This high payment, relative to its MSRP, results in a mere “60% bang for your buck.”
Long explains that a “100% bang for your buck” would equate to a monthly payment of 1% of the true MSRP. The Discovery Sport’s 60% indicates a significant disparity between its initial cost and the value proposition offered through leasing. This suggests either rapid depreciation or an unfavorable residual value calculation by lessors, crucial factors that directly impact the total depreciation a lessee pays over the contract term.
Furthermore, expert mechanic reports cited by GOBankingRates indicate that Land Rover Discovery models are “costly to maintain,” with “expensive parts and labor” for repairs. While this broader critique isn’t exclusive to the Sport model or its leasing aspects, it highlights potential for high out-of-pocket expenses for lessees responsible for certain repairs. This further diminishes the overall value, making the 2024 Land Rover Discovery Sport a financially questionable lease, despite its luxurious appeal.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander
Name: Land Rover Discovery Sport
Manufacturer: Jaguar Land Rover
Production: 2014–present
ModelCode: L550
Assembly: Jaguar Land Rover Halewood,Changshu,Itatiaia,Pune
Designer: Gerry McGovern
Platform: Jaguar Land Rover car platforms#D8
Related: Range Rover Evoque,Jaguar E-Pace,Tata Harrier
Engine: ubl
Motor: ubl
Transmission: ubl
Wheelbase: Convert
Length: Convert
Width: Convert
Height: Convert
Weight: Convert
Sp: uk
Class: Compact crossover SUV#Luxury vehicles
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Predecessor: Land Rover Freelander
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description, CS1: unfit URL
Summary: The Land Rover Discovery Sport (internal code L550) is a compact luxury crossover SUV produced by British automotive company Jaguar Land Rover since 2014, under their Land Rover marque, and since 2017 their best-selling model.
Introduced in late 2014, it replaces the Freelander in a revised Land Rover range of vehicles, with Discovery joining Range Rover as a sub-brand. Contrary to its predecessor, the slightly larger car is also available in a seven seat layout.
The pre-facelift Discovery Sport is based on the JLR D8/LR-MS platform, customised for off-road applications, and is powered by a range of four cylinder petrol and diesel engines. It is the first Discovery built with a unibody structure.
Land Rover described the facelifted Discovery Sport as being based on the JLR PTA platform, a rebrand of the D8. It is also used by the Jaguar E-Pace and L551 version of Range Rover Evoque.
Get more information about: Land Rover Discovery Sport
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Land Rover Model: Discovery Sport
Price: $21,595 Mileage: 44,296 mi.
Read more about: Exclusive Look: Inside the Billion-Dollar Bunker Boom for the Ultra-Rich (and the Celebs Who Are Ready for Anything!)
2. **2024 Chevy Traverse**The 2024 Chevrolet Traverse ranks sixth on Matthew Long’s list of SUVs to avoid leasing, primarily due to persistent mechanical concerns that can significantly impact a lessee’s experience. Long explicitly states this model is “still suffering from transmission and reliability issues,” a critical red flag for any vehicle, particularly one under a lease agreement.
Reliability problems are especially troubling for leased vehicles, as major failures, even if under warranty, can cause considerable inconvenience and downtime. Such issues also negatively affect a vehicle’s market value at lease end, potentially leading to a lower residual value and thus a less favorable initial lease structure. Priced at $42,000, the Traverse carries a monthly payment of $620, which translates to a 68% “bang for your buck.”
This 68% figure, while slightly better than some, still falls short of an ideal value proposition, indicating lessees pay a premium relative to the vehicle’s expected depreciation. The combination of known mechanical issues, particularly concerning the transmission, and a less-than-optimal “bang for your buck” makes the 2024 Chevy Traverse a risky choice for leasing. Consumers prioritizing reliability and financial efficiency should approach this model with caution.
Car Model Information: 2021 Chevrolet Traverse Premier
Name: Chevrolet Traverse
Caption: Second generation facelift model
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: 2008–present
ModelYears: 2009–present
Class: Full-size crossover SUV
Layout: ubl
Predecessor: Chevrolet TrailBlazer
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Chevrolet Traverse is a full-size crossover SUV with three-row seating built by General Motors produced since the 2009 model year. It is built on the same platform as the GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave, known as the Lambda platform for the first generation, and the C1XX for the second generation. It also shares the C1XX platform with the Cadillac XT6. It is the successor to the TrailBlazer body-on-frame SUV and the Uplander minivan.
The second-generation model debuted in showrooms in the middle of 2017. Starting with the 2019 model year, the Traverse was slotted above the new mid-size Chevrolet Blazer as part of Chevrolet’s plans to expand its SUV lineup.
The Traverse name was originally used for a concept car at the 2003 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, but that concept gave way when the Equinox launched for the 2005 model year.
Get more information about: Chevrolet Traverse
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Chevrolet Model: Traverse
Price: $29,995 Mileage: 84,738 mi.
Read more about: The Horsepower Haze: Performance Vehicles Assessed on Actual Output – From Dyno Kings to Paper Tigers
3. **2024 KIA Sportage**Despite its more accessible price point of $28,000, the 2024 KIA Sportage is flagged by Matthew Long as an SUV to reconsider for leasing due to its less-than-optimal value proposition. The lease for the Sportage comes to $436 per month.
Long’s analysis indicates that the actual value, or “bang for buck,” on a $12,000, three-year lease for the Sportage is only 65%. This figure, consistent with others on the “avoid” list, suggests that lessees are not receiving optimal value for their monthly payments. A lower percentage implies that the Sportage’s residual value may not be as robust as desired, leading to lessees effectively paying for a larger share of the vehicle’s depreciation.
For a compact SUV where practicality and value are key, a 65% “bang for your buck” is a notable concern. It suggests that while the monthly payment is lower in absolute terms, the relative cost of leasing this model, proportional to its MSRP and expected depreciation, is not particularly efficient. Therefore, the 2024 KIA Sportage warrants careful consideration; lessees should explore alternatives that offer a more favorable depreciation curve and a stronger return on their monthly investment.
Car Model Information: 2017 Kia Sportage SX Turbo
Name: Kia Sportage
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: 1993–present
Class: Compact SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Predecessor: Kia Retona
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive,Front-engine, front-wheel-drive,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Chassis: ubl
ModelYears: 1995–present
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, ANCAP small off-road, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English
Summary: The Kia Sportage is a series of automobiles manufactured by the South Korean manufacturer Kia since 1993 through five generations. Initially a compact SUV built on a body-on-frame chassis, the second-generation Sportage transitioned to a car-based platform which placed it into the compact crossover SUV class, and was originally developed alongside the Hyundai Tucson and since the fifth-generation model launched in 2021, in two sizes with different wheelbase lengths for different markets, alongside the Hyundai Santa Fe and the Kia Sorento. The Sportage has been the best-selling Kia model globally since 2016 after surpassing the Rio. In 2018, the model reached the 5 million production milestone. As of 2023, the Sportage is positioned between the Seltos or Niro and the three-row Sorento in Kia’s SUV global lineup with the latter sharing platform with the Sportage.
Get more information about: Kia Sportage
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: KIA Model: Sportage
Price: $11,645 Mileage: 120,891 mi.
Read more about: The Infotainment Report Card: Ranking 10 Modern Cars on Digital Reliability and Driver Experience
4. **2025 Chevy Trailblazer**The 2025 Chevy Trailblazer, another compact SUV from Chevrolet, also warrants caution for potential lessees. Priced slightly over $26,000, it targets the entry-level segment, but Matthew Long notes that securing a lease requires a relatively high credit score of at least 720.
This elevated credit score benchmark for a vehicle in this price range suggests that lessors perceive a higher risk or require greater financial stability, potentially offsetting less-than-ideal residual values. Even with a strong credit profile, lessees face a monthly payment of $413 for the Trailblazer.
While Long doesn’t provide a specific “bang for your buck” percentage for the Trailblazer, its inclusion on the avoid list alongside vehicles with poor residual values and high depreciation implies similar underlying financial inefficiencies. The combination of a high credit score hurdle and a monthly payment that, for its price point, may not translate into exceptional value, positions it as a less desirable lease option. Consumers with excellent credit might find more financially rewarding lease opportunities elsewhere.
Read more about: Yikes! 14 Comedy Duos Who Made Us Laugh On-Screen But Were Absolutely Feuding Behind The Scenes
5. **2025 Nissan Kicks**The 2025 Nissan Kicks, priced at a reasonable $25,000, suffers from a critical leasing drawback: a “terrible residual value,” as highlighted by Matthew Long. Residual value is paramount in leasing, directly influencing how much depreciation a lessee finances.
“A terrible residual value” means lessors project the Kicks to lose significant worth over the lease term, translating to higher monthly payments. Despite its accessible MSRP, lessees face a $391 monthly payment, resulting in a mere 60% “bang on your buck.” This percentage is among the lowest, underscoring the poor value proposition of leasing this model.
While Long “criticized the Nissan Kicks specifically for its residual value,” a Nissan spokesperson noted its “best-in-class” recognition in the J.D. Power Residual Value Awards. This divergence notwithstanding, Long’s 60% “bang on your buck” is a clear indicator of an unfavorable financial arrangement. Lessees are advised to prioritize deals offering a much higher return, reflecting better value retention.
Car Model Information: 2024 Nissan Kicks SV
Name: Nissan Kicks
Caption: Second-generation Kicks SV (P16)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Production: 2016–present
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Predecessor: unbulleted list
ModelYears: 2018–present (North America)
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles containing Japanese-language text, Articles with short description
Summary: The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by Nissan since 2016. The crossover was initially introduced as a concept car under the same name and was premiered at the 2014 São Paulo International Motor Show. Nissan claimed the concept is inspired by the streets of Brazil. The first-generation, V platform-based Kicks debuted in São Paulo, Brazil in mid-2016 with the P15 chassis code. The car was designed collaboratively by Nissan’s design headquarters in Atsugi, Japan, Nissan Design America (NDA) in San Diego, California, and Nissan Design America Rio de Janeiro. The first-generation Kicks was then gradually rolled out across Latin America, then it entered the United States and Canada in 2018 to replace the Juke as the subcompact crossover offering in both countries. The B0 platform-based Kicks was introduced in India in January 2019 with the D15 chassis code. The company stated the vehicle is built on the platform to reduce production costs. It is slightly larger than the V platform-based Kicks, and retained the same wheelbase as the first-generation Dacia Duster and the B0 platform-based Renault Captur. The D15 Kicks ceased production in 2023. The second-generation Kicks was introduced for the North American market in March 2024.
Get more information about: Nissan Kicks
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Nissan Model: Kicks
Price: $18,490 Mileage: 46,587 mi.
Read more about: The CVT Conundrum: 10 SUVs Graded on Transmission Reliability – From Bulletproof to Breakdown-Prone
6. **2024 KIA Soul**The 2024 KIA Soul, an entry-level compact SUV priced around $20,000, is another model financial analysts advise avoiding for leasing. Matthew Long indicates lessees can expect approximately $328 a month in payments.
While this is one of the lowest absolute monthly payments, its value proposition relative to MSRP is less favorable. Long’s assessment shows a “62% bang for your buck,” significantly below an optimal lease deal. This suggests the Soul experiences relatively steep depreciation or has a conservatively set residual value.
For a vehicle at $20,000, a “bang for your buck” in the low 60s implies that a disproportionately large percentage of its value is paid through the lease, rather than benefiting from strong value retention. The appeal of a low monthly payment can obscure this underlying financial inefficiency. Consumers should explore alternatives that provide a stronger return on their leasing investment, avoiding overpaying for depreciation.
Car Model Information: 2023 Kia Soul LX
Name: Kia Soul
Caption: 2023 Kia Soul GT Line
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: 2008–2025
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: hatchback
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
ModelYears: 2010–2025
Categories: 2010s cars, All articles with dead external links, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with dead external links from December 2017
Summary: The Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Kia since 2008. Often described and marketed as a crossover since its introduction, the Soul is a hatchback with a box proportion and tall roof, which are designed to maximize its interior space. Despite its SUV-like styling, the Soul was never available with all-wheel drive, instead it is exclusively a front-wheel drive vehicle. The Soul first appeared in 2006 in the form of a concept model displayed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The production model made its debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2008. During its introduction, Kia stated that the Soul is aimed at the North American market, and targeted towards buyers in the 18 to 35-year old range. The second-generation model was introduced in 2013 for the 2014 model year, which featured a larger exterior and interior dimensions along with a reworked chassis, while keeping its boxy styling. The Soul is currently in its third generation, which was introduced in 2018 for the 2019 model year. Since 2014, Kia has also marketed a battery electric variant as the Soul EV. The name “Soul” comes from the homophone of Seoul, the city that hosts Kia’s headquarters.
Get more information about: Kia Soul
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: KIA Model: Soul
Price: $17,890 Mileage: 45,396 mi.
Read more about: Watch Out: The 10 Most Stolen Car Models Dominating US Streets
7. **2025 Ford Escape**Matthew Long, the financial advisor TikToker, identifies the 2025 Ford Escape as the absolute worst deal for lessees, ranking it at number one on his list of SUVs to avoid. Priced at approximately $33,000, this model comes with a substantial $616 monthly payment. This results in an alarming “55% bang for your buck,” the lowest percentage among all vehicles he critiqued.
This exceptionally low “bang for your buck” rating indicates a severe disconnect between the Escape’s initial cost and the value it retains over the lease term. Lessees are effectively paying for a disproportionately large amount of depreciation, suggesting the vehicle’s residual value is particularly weak. For consumers seeking financial efficiency, this figure serves as a stark warning.
Beyond immediate leasing implications, the Ford brand faces broader challenges. The company is embroiled in a class-action lawsuit concerning its 2.7L V6 engine, following a prior billion-dollar lawsuit over its 1L EcoBoost engine. Such issues contribute to a perception of potential long-term reliability concerns, indirectly influencing residual values and consumer confidence.
Car Model Information: 2024 Ford Escape Active
Name: Ford Escape
Caption: 2021 Escape Hybrid (US)
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Aka: Unbulleted list
Production: 2000–present
ModelYears: 2001–present
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Unbulleted list
Predecessor: Nissan Terrano II
Successor: Ford Territory (China)
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with dead external links
Summary: The Ford Escape is a compact crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by the Ford Motor Company since the 2001 model year. The first Ford SUV derived from a car platform, the Escape fell below the Ford Explorer in size; the Escape was sized between the Ford EcoSport and Ford Edge. The 2005 model year Ford Escape Hybrid was the first hybrid-electric vehicle from Ford, and the first hybrid produced as an SUV.
The first two generations of the Escape used the Ford CD2 platform (jointly developed with Mazda), leading to the release of the rebadged variants, the Mazda Tribute and Mercury Mariner; as with the Escape, both the Tribute and Mariner were marketed in North America (the Mariner was never marketed in Canada). In Europe, the Escape was initially branded as the Ford Maverick from 2001 to 2008 (replacing a Nissan-produced SUV).
Under the mid-2000s “One Ford” globalization strategy, the third and fourth-generation designs of the Escape have been unified with the Ford Kuga, designed by Ford of Europe. Sharing a common body and chassis underpinnings (and several engines), the Escape and Kuga are manufactured in their home markets. As with previous generations, the fourth-generation Escape is offered with gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid options. Outside of North America, the Ford Escape is marketed in Australia, China, and Taiwan.
In August 2025, it was announced that Ford will be discontinuing the Escape after the 2026 model year.
Get more information about: Ford Escape
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: Escape
Price: $19,465 Mileage: 47,663 mi.
Read more about: Go Green, Save Green: 14 Gas-Guzzlers You Absolutely Should Not Keep in 2025, According to Emissions Data and Auto Experts
8. **2025 Volkswagen Taos**The 2025 Volkswagen Taos, despite its revamping and enhanced 174 hp engine with an 8-inch touchscreen, presents significant concerns for prospective lessees due to its documented reliability issues. Consumer Reports rated the 2025 VW Taos as the second-least reliable car in 2024, an assessment that should give any consumer pause. Only the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid minivan received lower marks.
This abysmal reliability rating is critical for leasing, as frequent breakdowns or unexpected maintenance can lead to substantial out-of-pocket expenses for lessees, even if some repairs are covered under warranty. The inconvenience and potential downtime of a less reliable vehicle negate much of the “new car” appeal, making the monthly payment feel less justified.
The 2025 model is also $1,000 more expensive than its 2024 predecessor, complicating its value proposition. While new features might entice, the underlying reliability concerns, highlighted by a trusted consumer advocacy organization, suggest this increased cost may not translate into a financially sound or worry-free leasing experience. Lessees should prioritize vehicles with a stronger track record for dependability.
Car Model Information: 2022 Volkswagen Taos 1.5T S
Name: Volkswagen Taos/Tharu
Manufacturer: Volkswagen
Aka: Volkswagen Tharu
Production: ubl
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Klaus Zyciora
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Platform: Volkswagen Group MQB A1
Related: SEAT Ateca,Škoda Karoq,Jetta VS5
Engine: Petrol engine,Turbocharger,1.4 L TSI 150 I4,1.5 L TSI 160 I4,Multi-point fuel injection,2.0 L TSI 190 I4
Transmission: Manual transmission
Battery: 44.1 kWh (e-Tharu)
ElectricRange: convert
Wheelbase: 105.9 in
Abbr: on
Order: 4453 mm
Length: 175.8 in
Width: 1841 mm
Height: convert
ModelYears: 2022–present
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, Articles with short description, CS1 Brazilian Portuguese-language sources (pt-br), CS1 Mexican Spanish-language sources (es-mx)
Summary: The Volkswagen Taos is a compact crossover SUV marketed by Volkswagen. It was first released in October 2018 as the Volkswagen Tharu in China, while the Taos was released in October 2020 as a restyled version of the Tharu for the North American, South American, and Russian markets. In the brand’s lineup, the vehicle is positioned below the Tiguan, and in South America and China above the T-Cross. It is not marketed in core European market.
The Taos is named after Taos, New Mexico. The Tharu name is derived after the eponymous Tharu people, an ethnic group indigenous to Nepal and Northern India.
Get more information about: Volkswagen Taos
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Volkswagen Model: Taos
Price: $19,500 Mileage: 10,385 mi.
Read more about: Steer Clear: 15 Cars You Absolutely Should Not Buy in 2025, According to Automotive Experts
9. **2025 Ford Explorer**Another Ford model warranting caution for lessees is the 2025 Ford Explorer. While RepairPal indicates that the costs, severity, and frequency of repairs and maintenance are comparatively low for this SUV, its overall ranking among midsize SUVs is a modest 19th out of 26 models analyzed. More critically for leasing purposes, CarsDirect explicitly reported that the Explorer is the “worst to lease out of all the models they looked at.”
This designation as the “worst to lease” is a powerful indicator of significant financial disadvantages. It strongly suggests that the Explorer suffers from an unfavorable combination of high depreciation and low residual value, making the monthly payments disproportionately expensive relative to the value retained. Even if maintenance costs are manageable, the core financial structure of an Explorer lease appears to be inherently disadvantageous for the consumer.
The ongoing legal challenges faced by Ford, including the class-action lawsuit over its 2.7L V6 engine, add another layer of concern. Such issues can erode consumer trust and ultimately impact resale values across the brand, directly affecting residual values for leased vehicles. While the Explorer’s direct repair costs may be low, the overarching market perception and the “worst to lease” classification make it a choice that demands serious reconsideration for anyone planning to lease in 2025.
Car Model Information: 2018 Ford Explorer Sport
Name: Ford Explorer
Caption: Sixth-generation Ford Explorer
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1990–present
ModelYears: 1991–present
Class: unbulleted list
Chassis: unbulleted list
Predecessor: Ford Bronco II
Successor: Ford Territory (Australia)
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
Summary: The Ford Explorer is a range of SUVs manufactured by the Ford Motor Company since the 1991 model year. The first five-door SUV produced by Ford, the Explorer, was introduced as a replacement for the three-door Bronco II. As with the Ford Ranger, the model line derives its name from a trim package previously offered on Ford F-Series pickup trucks. As of 2020, the Explorer became the best-selling SUV in the American market.
Currently in its sixth generation, the Explorer has featured a five-door wagon body style since its 1991 introduction. During the first two generations, the model line included a three-door wagon (directly replacing the Bronco II). The Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a crew-cab mid-size pickup derived from the second-generation Explorer. The fifth and sixth generations of the Explorer have been produced as the Ford Police Interceptor Utility (replacing both the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor and the Ford Police Interceptor Sedan).
The Explorer is slotted between the Ford Edge and Ford Expedition within North America’s current Ford SUV range. The model line has undergone rebadging several times, with Mazda, Mercury, and Lincoln each selling derivative variants. Currently, Lincoln markets a luxury version of the Explorer as the Lincoln Aviator.
For the North American market, the first four generations of the Explorer were produced by Ford at its Louisville Assembly Plant (Louisville, Kentucky) and its now-closed St. Louis Assembly Plant (Hazelwood, Missouri). Ford currently assembles the Explorer alongside the Lincoln Aviator and the Police Interceptor Utility at its Chicago Assembly Plant (Chicago, Illinois).
Get more information about: Ford Explorer
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Ford Model: Explorer
Price: $19,485 Mileage: 123,120 mi.
Read more about: California: Unpacking the High-Performance Engine of a Global Super-State
10. **Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L**Jeep’s flagship models, the 2025 Grand Cherokee and its three-row counterpart, the Grand Cherokee L, face significant scrutiny regarding their leasing viability, primarily due to persistent reliability concerns and subpar fuel economy. Consumer Reports has consistently ranked Jeep last in its surveys of all 34 vehicle brands and again last among 15 mainstream brands, based on criteria including satisfaction, road tests, and safety. This indicates a widespread and systemic issue with the brand’s dependability.
For lessees, low reliability translates directly into increased risk of mechanical problems, which can lead to costly repairs not always covered by a lease agreement or warranty, and significant inconvenience. The expectation of a worry-free experience typically associated with a new leased vehicle is severely undermined when the brand itself consistently ranks at the bottom for dependability.
Compounding these reliability issues are the particularly meager fuel economy rates: a mere 20 miles per gallon for the Grand Cherokee and 19 miles per gallon for the Grand Cherokee L. In an era where fuel efficiency is a paramount concern for many consumers, these figures represent a substantial ongoing expense that further diminishes the overall value proposition of leasing these models. The combination of poor reliability and high running costs makes both the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L less-than-ideal choices for those seeking a financially sound and dependable lease.
Read more about: The Infotainment Report Card: Ranking 10 Modern Cars on Digital Reliability and Driver Experience
11. **2025 Land Rover Discovery**While the 2024 Land Rover Discovery Sport was already identified as an unfavorable lease option in Section 1, the broader 2025 Land Rover Discovery also warrants specific caution, especially for urban drivers. Described as a capable all-terrain option, its suitability as a daily urban vehicle is consistently questioned in reviews. This mismatch between its design strengths and typical consumer use can lead to dissatisfaction.
Furthermore, an expert mechanic consulted by GOBankingRates provided a crucial insight into the Discovery line: these vehicles are “costly to maintain,” with “expensive parts and labor” when repairs inevitably arise. For a leased vehicle, where minimizing unforeseen costs is key, this represents a substantial financial risk. While luxury vehicles inherently carry higher maintenance costs, the specific emphasis on their expensiveness makes the Discovery a particularly concerning option.
This general critique of the Land Rover Discovery’s maintenance profile, coupled with its less-than-stellar performance as an urban vehicle, significantly impacts its appeal for leasing. Lessees typically seek predictable monthly costs and minimal hassle; the high potential for expensive, unexpected repairs undermines this expectation. Consumers are advised to weigh the allure of its off-road capability against the practical realities of ownership and the financial implications of its high maintenance costs during a lease term.
**Broader Market Dynamics and Future Outlook**
Beyond individual vehicle shortcomings, the auto lease market in 2024-2025 presents distinct challenges and opportunities. A significant factor is the sharp decline in lease maturities, projected to fall by 41% in the first half of 2025 compared to 2024. This reduction could result in one million fewer used vehicles available for dealers, disrupting a vital source of nearly-new, low-mileage inventory.
This scarcity of off-lease vehicles drives wholesale prices up, making it harder for dealers to source used inventory and potentially tightening their margins. While new vehicle inventories are bouncing back—up 40% from a year ago—and helping ease new car prices, the used car market will grapple with tight supply, likely underpinning pricing for the foreseeable future. Analysts expect this lack of lease maturities to be most acutely felt this fall/winter and next spring, with meaningful recovery not forecasted until late 2025.
Interestingly, leasing volumes did rise 25% year-over-year in Q1 2024, fueled by aggressive incentives and subsidized interest rates. This trend suggests a potential recovery in off-lease vehicles over the next few years, but it won’t immediately solve today’s supply issues. Declining lease maturities stem from leases originated during pandemic-era supply shortages, when new vehicle inventory was low and average payments were higher, leading many lessees to finance rather than re-lease.
**Actionable Tips for Securing Better Lease Deals**
Navigating this complex leasing environment requires a strategic approach to secure the best possible terms. Car and Driver offers several invaluable tips. Firstly, thorough research is paramount; prospective lessees should actively search for good deals and conduct extensive homework before committing. Understanding market trends and competitor offerings provides significant leverage.
Secondly, negotiation is key. Do not hesitate to negotiate the vehicle’s purchase price, as bringing down this initial figure directly impacts monthly payments and can narrow the gap between purchase price and residual value. This proactive approach significantly improves the “bang for your buck” ratio.
Furthermore, to ascertain the correct interest rate, consumers should multiply the lease factor by 2400. This calculation demystifies a crucial component, allowing for informed comparisons and negotiations. Lastly, Car and Driver advises negotiating “the maximum number of miles you can put on the leased car.” This is critical, as exceeding mileage limits incurs substantial penalties, adding unexpected costs.
Nerdwallet reminds consumers of another vital aspect: maintaining the car diligently throughout the lease term. Neglecting upkeep can lead to serious fees for damages such as “damaged parts, permanent stains and broken glass” upon return. Proactive maintenance not only ensures the vehicle runs smoothly but also safeguards against costly surprises at lease end.
**Diverse Consumer Perspectives on Leasing**
The debate on vehicle leasing generates diverse consumer viewpoints, clearly visible on platforms like TikTok. Matthew Long’s viral video, seen over 1.8 million times, showcased this spectrum of opinions.
Some viewers strongly advocate leasing, calling it the most pragmatic choice. One user stated, “Leasing is the best option. What car/SUV you don’t lose money with? None. Vehicles are not Investments.” This view emphasizes leasing as a predictable expense without full depreciation burden. Another observed, “The price of new cars is beyond comprehension. Will the increases ever stop? Doubtful,” suggesting leasing helps manage soaring purchase prices.
Conversely, many view leasing as a poor financial decision. “If you are an investor, lease is a bad idea to start with,” one commented, prioritizing asset building over perpetual payments. Another bluntly stated, “All leases are bad deals,” reflecting skepticism about leasing’s long-term value. These differing perspectives highlight how personal financial philosophies shape automotive choices.
**Navigating the 2024 Auto Lease Environment: Informed Recommendations**
The 2024 auto lease market presents a complex landscape of fluctuating prices, persistent reliability concerns, and intricate financial terms. Our in-depth analysis, drawing upon financial analysts and consumer data, highlights specific models — the Ford Escape, Volkswagen Taos, Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and Land Rover Discovery — as unfavorable for leasing due to their poor residual values, reliability issues, and high maintenance costs.
The broader market dynamics, marked by declining lease maturities and tightening used car supply, further complicate the picture. For consumers determined to lease, the path forward mandates meticulous research, aggressive negotiation on MSRP and mileage limits, and diligent vehicle maintenance. Understanding terms like residual value and actively calculating “bang for your buck” will empower lessees to avoid costly pitfalls.
Car Model Information: 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander
Sp: uk
Name: Land Rover Discovery
Caption: 2018 Land Rover Discovery
Manufacturer: Land Rover Ltd.,Jaguar Land Rover
Production: 1989–present
Class: Executive car,Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles lacking reliable references, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles lacking reliable references from December 2010
Summary: The Land Rover Discovery is a series of five or seven-seater family SUVs, produced under the Land Rover marque, from the British manufacturer Land Rover, and later Jaguar Land Rover. The series is currently in its fifth iteration (or generation, according to the manufacturer), the first of which was introduced in 1989, making the Discovery the first new model series since the launch of the 1970 Range Rover – on which it was based – and only the third new product line since the conception of the Land Rover (vehicle and brand) by Rover in 1948. The model is sometimes called influential, as one of the first to market a true off-road capable family car.
Although the Range Rover had originally been designed as an everyday four wheel drive car that could be used as both a utility vehicle and a family car, it had progressively moved upmarket through its life to evolve into a luxury vehicle sold at a much higher price point. The Discovery was intended to fulfill the role the Range Rover originally was intended for; a segment which was now dominated by Japanese rivals such as the Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Pajero and Toyota Land Cruiser. Although positioned below the Range Rover in the company’s line-up, the vehicle was both longer and higher, offered more room in the back, and optionally also more seats. Space utilization became more sophisticated in later generations, but the series keeps offering seats for seven occupants. Despite originally being sold as an affordable alternative to the Range Rover, the Discovery has also progressively moved upmarket through its successive generations to become a bonafide luxury SUV.
The second Discovery (1998) was called the Series II, and although it featured an extended rear overhang, it was otherwise an extensive facelift, which carried over the 100 in (2,540 mm) wheelbase frame and rigid, live front and rear axles derived from the original Range Rover.
The third generation – succeeding the Series II in 2004 – was either called the Discovery 3 or simply LR3 (in North America and the Middle East). This was a new ground up design, the first all-original design for the Discovery. Although it followed the 2002 third generation Range Rover, also switching to fully independent suspension, it still received a separate, but integrated body and frame (IBF) structure. The fourth generation, as of 2009 – like the series II, was again mainly an update of the new generation – marketed as the Discovery 4, or Land Rover LR4 for North American and Middle Eastern markets.
The fifth generation of the Discovery, introduced in 2017, no longer sports a numeric suffix. Unlike the previous two generations, it now benefits from a unitized body structure, making it lighter than its predecessor.
Get more information about: Land Rover Discovery
Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Land Rover Model: Discovery
Price: $21,595 Mileage: 44,296 mi.
Read more about: Alain Delon, The ‘Grand Fauve’ of French Cinema, Dies at 88: A Retrospective on a Life of Cinematic Brilliance and Personal Turmoil
Ultimately, the decision to lease requires a clear understanding that a vehicle is a depreciating asset. While some value the predictable payments and flexibility, others view it as a financial drain. By utilizing the detailed knowledge and actionable advice provided, you can navigate the challenging 2024 auto lease environment with confidence, making informed choices that align with your financial goals. Think twice, research diligently, and drive smart.
