Collos25, it is a european standard that leasing companies can reclaim the VAT on cars purchased to lease to a lessee. But they must account for VAT on the full sale price of the car on disposal. Hence the depreciation is always ex-VAT and so their rentals are based on this value. This makes leasing a very cost-effective financing method.

The lease rental is largely based on the depreciation, but a 30% discount on the purchase price has a much larger affect than a 30% premium on the residual value, especially if that residual value is based on a high terminal mileage. So, Hoyak, it's all a matter of timing. If you had been trawling the market in October, you would have found a number of C Class Mercedes at very cheap rentals, as there was a glut of them on the market. Not so now!

Audi achieved their 2012 sales target well before the turn of the year, and they had done an excellent job in predicting demand across their range. Hence there has not been any bargains available from that marque since the run-out of the old model A3. Timing, and speed of commitment, is the essence for the bargain-hunter. (We've just ordered an E Class, but don't ask....there were only about 20 in the country, and they've all gone as well.).

Hi HappyBlue. Basic answer is No. replace the word "seem" in your posting by the word "are" and the opposite is generally correct. There are too many "lease deals" on offer which are not what they seem. My advice is only deal with a leasing company or broker who is a member of the BVRLA, (British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association) whereby you have, at least, an industry body that will intervene in any disputes.

Lex Autolease are a highly respected principal lessor who are selective with regard to the brokers that they appoint. So it is very likely that the deal is genuine. Again, the order form that you will be asked to sign should spell out all the terms of the lease, and when you receive the actual leasing agreement to sign, ensure that it mirrors the terms which you have agreed. Additionally, as Lex are, generally, extremely competitive with full maintenance costings, I would advise taking this option, irrespective of your mileage, so long as the maintenance is handled by Lex and not a third party maintenance company.. Make sure that your projected mileage, within the contract, is an accurate reflection of your future motoring needs as the Excess Mileage charge may be on the heavy side.

Lex is owned by Lloyds bank ie the people.