If there is one thing everyone loves, it’s accessible luxury. With pop-culture references like “treat yo self” running rampant, people are always looking for ways to level up their luxury game. Retail therapy has never been more relevant, and Audi is looking to capitalize on this movement by making leasing its vehicles more attainable. 

Leasing has always been a popular option for indecisive shoppers and those who like variety. This financing option has plenty of advantages, giving it broad appeal to many drivers. Typical Audi lease deals last three to four years, and they are significantly more affordable on a monthly basis than auto loans. However, Audi is changing the way we look at leasing.

Audi offers a quick taste of luxury

The German automaker announced its reLease program via a press release. Audi is taking a cautious approach, rolling out this process by starting small. The short-term lease program debuted at three Maryland Audi dealerships on Nov. 23, and it will ripple out from there.

These short-term Audi leases range from six to 18 months and only applies to particular pre-owned Audi models.

So just why has Audi chosen to create this program for shoppers, and what vehicles will be available for you to choose from? Let’s take a more in-depth look at the reLease program and all it has to offer. 

Why short-term leasing is beneficial for some drivers 

There is a lot of misconception about leasing vehicles. While some people may be under the impression that leasing a car automatically saves you money, that isn’t always the case. It’s good to go into any situation, knowing what you’re getting yourself into, and leasing a vehicle is no different. 

As a luxury brand, Audi tends to produce expensive vehicles, and even its used cars fetch a high price on the resale market. So thinking you’re going to snag an Audi lease for the price of a Toyota isn’t a realistic take on what this program is trying to accomplish. You’re still paying for what you’re getting, which is a top-of-the-line vehicle.

It’s fair to speculate if it’s worth it to lease a luxury vehicle in the first place. So who is the target audience for the reLease program? It’s certainly not those who need to adhere to a strict budget. 

Are you flush with cash, interested in trying Audi, and don’t want to commit to anything long-term? If so, this process may be worth looking into. Audi’s reLease program can be the ultimate way to fulfill your “treat yo self” vision for many people. It’s not a penny saver. It’s a dollar bill spender. 

Choosing the right model for your Audi lease agreement

Audi has a wide variety of models in its lineup. However, not every vehicle will be at your disposal for this program. The reLease program is centered around five keystone models from 2018 – the A3, A4, Q3, Q5, and Q7. 

The company’s press release gave an example of a short-term lease deal for a 2018 Audi A4 under its reLease program. The car would cost $505/mo. for 18 months with $1,905 due at signing. However, that initial amount includes the first month’s payment. Meanwhile, these Audi lease payments include the benefit of roadside assistance and regularly scheduled maintenance.

Those looking for a sporty yet refined sedan should explore the 2018 Audi A3 or the slightly larger A4. Meanwhile, the 2018 Audi Q3 and Q5 SUVs are perfect for young professionals and small families. These models offer premium materials, cutting-edge features, and incredible fuel efficiency. Finally, the 2018 Audi Q7 is the largest entry on the list, but it still delivers the brand’s signature agile handling. This midsize SUV seats up to seven passengers, and it has a laundry list of technology and safety features.

The Audi reLease Program makes luxury accessible 

RELEASE: Audi Just Cut the Price of the 2021 Audi Q3, Kind of

While the Audi reLease program has already begun, it remains to be seen how effective it will be to garner loyal Audi customers. In its press release, Audi expressed its reasoning for creating this program. 

“We have heard loud and clear from consumers that there is a gap in the car ownership and usage landscape. Whether it’s because of concerns stemming from COVID-19, the cultural shift toward changing jobs and geographic locations more frequently, or other life changes, traditional lease, and finance terms aren’t meeting the need for flexible access to vehicles,” said Audi Financial Services president and CEO Anthony Bandmann via the press release.

Is this is truly an effort on the brand’s part to make things easier on consumers or is it a flashy gimmick? In reality, it may be both. However, this could prove to be an excellent avenue for shoppers to lift their spirits, flex their spending muscles, and try out what could be the car of their dreams.