Why payments alone are not enough
At the end of the comparison, the buyer owns a vehicle but may still owe the lender. The calculator subtracts vehicle equity — estimated value minus loan balance — from cash paid. Lease cost adds the upfront payment, monthly payments, fees and excess mileage.
Net buy cost = down payment + payments − (vehicle value − loan balance)
Lease cost = initial payment + monthly payments + fees + excess mileage
What to take from each quote
Use the complete vehicle price, APR and mandatory products. For the lease, verify taxes, insurance, maintenance, disposition fee, wear rules and whether the first payment is included in the amount due at signing. This estimate does not override a contract.