Interest in car leasing continues to grow across Europe, yet adoption remains uneven, according to the Ayvens Mobility Monitor 2026.

Leasing momentum among consumers is driven by Gen Z/Y and the growing appeal of secondhand leasing

The study shows that mobility habits are evolving rapidly as private individuals seek flexibility, convenience and financial predictability.

Almost half (49%) of private individuals hold a positive attitude toward leasing in 2025, but only 26% are willing to lease a car in the next five years, revealing a gap between interest and action.

The study highlights a clear north–south divide, with Southern Europe more enthusiastic than Northern and Western markets, which remain cautious. Momentum is driven by Gen Z and Gen Y and the growing appeal of secondhand leasing, now attracting 45% of consumers seeking affordability and flexibility.

The independent study, carried out with Ipsos and based on responses from 3,934 consumers across 12 European countries, also shows that generational differences remain strong.

Gen Z (18-27) and Gen Y (28-43) are significantly more positive about leasing, seeing it as a modern, flexible and low-risk mobility solution. These groups also show a clear preference for fully online or hybrid leasing processes, confirming a shift toward digital end-to-end mobility experiences. Boomers (60+), meanwhile, remain more sceptical and are less interested in secondhand leasing options, showing a traditional preference for ownership.

The study confirms strong regional contrasts. Southern Europe remains the most enthusiastic region, with Portugal (72%), Greece (66%), Spain (64%), Italy (51%) reporting the highest positive attitudes toward leasing.

Northern and Western Europe remain more cautious, except in France (46%). In this region, update is limited by high levels of perceived cost – such as in the Netherlands, where 51% believe leasing is more expensive than buying.

And countries such as Germany, Sweden and Norway show a higher share of negative or neutral views and lower declared interest in leasing.

The research also reveals that urbanisation plays a role. More than half (52%) of urban residents hold a positive view of leasing, compared with 38% in rural areas.

One of this year’s standout findings is the growing interest in secondhand leasing. In total, 45% of consumers are interested in leasing a secondhand vehicle, with interest highest in Greece and the Netherlands.

Three-quarters (74%) cite lower monthly payments as a decisive advantage compared to leasing a brand-new car.

And consumers appreciate the ability to drive well-maintained vehicles at a more accessible cost.

Even perceived downsides – such as concerns over mechanical issues – do not outweigh the growing appeal of a budget-friendly, lower-risk mobility pathway at a time when households face rising costs.

Avyens said second-hand leasing is now positioned as a “powerful engine for leasing-market growth”, widening accessibility to leasing for households that might not consider a new vehicle.

Olivier Théron, direct & indirect retail global director of Ayvens Group, said: “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.

“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 survey was carried out in September 2025 and is based on responses from 3,934 consumers in 12 European countries: Belgium, France, Ireland, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the UK, with around 260 complete responses per country.

To download the Ayvens Mobility Monitor 2026, click here.