Ayvens reveals growing European interest in long-term car leasing

Interest in long-term car leasing is continuing to rise across Europe, driven by younger consumers and growing demand for affordable mobility solutions, according to the newly released Ayvens Mobility Monitor 2026.

The independent study, conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Ayvens, found that nearly half of European consumers now view leasing positively, although a significant gap remains between consumer interest and actual adoption intentions.

The survey, based on responses from 3,934 consumers across 12 European countries, revealed that 49% of private individuals hold a positive attitude toward leasing in 2025. However, only 26% said they would consider leasing a vehicle within the next five years, highlighting ongoing hesitation despite increasing awareness of leasing benefits.

The report suggests that evolving mobility habits, combined with a growing preference for flexibility, convenience and predictable monthly costs, are reshaping how consumers approach vehicle ownership across Europe.

One of the strongest trends identified in the study is the growing role of younger generations in driving leasing adoption. Consumers from Generation Z and Generation Y were found to be significantly more open to leasing than older age groups, viewing it as a modern, low-risk and flexible mobility solution.

These younger consumers also demonstrated a preference for fully digital or hybrid leasing journeys, reinforcing the shift toward end-to-end online mobility services.

In contrast, consumers aged 60 and over remain more sceptical about leasing and continue to favour traditional vehicle ownership models.

The report also highlighted clear regional differences in leasing attitudes across Europe, with Southern European countries demonstrating considerably stronger enthusiasm than their Northern and Western counterparts.

Portugal recorded the highest positive sentiment toward leasing at 72%, followed by Greece at 66%, Spain at 64% and Italy at 51%.

Meanwhile, countries including Germany, Sweden and Norway reported lower levels of interest and a higher proportion of neutral or negative views toward leasing.

Perceptions around affordability continue to influence adoption rates. In the Netherlands, for example, 51% of respondents believe leasing is more expensive than purchasing a vehicle outright, which researchers said remains a barrier to broader uptake.

Urban consumers were also found to be more receptive to leasing models than rural residents, with 52% of urban respondents expressing positive views compared with 38% in rural areas.

A major finding of the study was the rising appeal of second-hand vehicle leasing, which researchers described as moving from an alternative option to a mainstream choice for cost-conscious consumers.

According to the report, 45% of consumers are now interested in leasing a second-hand vehicle, with the highest levels of interest recorded in Greece and the Netherlands.

Lower monthly payments were cited as the primary attraction, with 74% of respondents identifying affordability as the key advantage compared with leasing a new car.

Consumers also valued the opportunity to drive well-maintained vehicles at a lower cost, particularly as economic pressures and household expenses continue to rise across Europe.

Despite concerns around potential mechanical issues, the report found that second-hand leasing is increasingly viewed as a practical and lower-risk mobility solution, particularly for households seeking financial flexibility.

Ayvens said the trend positions second-hand leasing as a major future growth driver for the wider leasing market.

“Long-term leasing continues to evolve, appealing to a wider range of customers, from young digital-first consumers to households seeking predictable and effortless mobility,” he said.

“The growing interest in second-hand leasing reflects a wider shift toward smarter, more sustainable, and more affordable mobility.

“As technological and economic factors reshape mobility habits, Ayvens remains committed to providing flexible, accessible, and sustainable mobility solutions that meet our customers’ needs.”

The Ayvens Mobility Monitor 2026 surveyed consumers in Belgium, France, Ireland, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom between September 15 and 29, 2025.

Researchers said the study sample was designed to reflect a broad cross-section of European consumers across age groups, income levels and urban and rural populations.