Skip to main content

Leasing a car is advantageous for anyone looking to get into something new but without a long-term commitment. Although the new car market has been wonky over the past year, some great lease deals are to be found. Check out the cheapest car to lease in 2023, according to U.S. News.

What is the cheapest car to lease in 2023?

Front angle view of blue 2023 Kia Soul, cheapest new Kia SUV and one of the most affordable in America
2023 Kia Soul | Kia

While there are plenty of lease deals in the current market, especially for the month of March, the 2023 Kia Soul takes the top spot. The current national lease deal is $239/month for 24 or 36 months, with $2,799 due at signing. The fine print shows that the total amount for the lease payments at the end of the 36-month term is $11,164. However, you should keep in mind that your payments may vary depending on your location and sales tax rate.

Overall, we think it’s a pretty good deal considering a little more than $11,000 gets you the base Soul LX model. Some of the most notable features on the entry-level Soul include a 132-hp, 2.0-liter engine, an 8-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, remote keyless entry, and a host of safety features.

It even comes in six different colors for some personal customization. Considering all you need for the most basic entertainment while driving around is smartphone integration like Apple CarPlay, the lease deal isn’t too bad.  

Stepping up to the higher Kia Soul trim levels will cost more

Dashboard in 2023 Kia Soul, cheapest new Kia SUV and one of the most affordable in America
2023 Kia Soul | Kia

Potential lessees looking for a little more out of the 2023 Kia Soul can step up to the higher trim levels. However, it’s worth noting that going to a higher trim level will increase the monthly payment and initial cap cost (down payment). It could be worth it, though, as the Kia Soul S model comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, larger 16-inch alloy wheels, satellite radio, and dual-zone climate control.

There’s even a wireless phone charging dock, two USB ports, and a power driver’s seat. The next-level Soul also comes with upgraded safety features like a rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot detection. So, if more safety and technology are your thing, the Soul S could be worth the extra cash every month.

The 2023 Nissan Altima has a slightly lower monthly payment and a shorter lease term

A side view of the 2023 Nissan Altima
2023 Nissan Altima | Joe Santos, MotorBiscuit

Interestingly, U.S. News ranked the 2023 Kia Soul as the best lease deal for 2023, but the 2023 Nissan Altima deal has a lower monthly payment. The current national lease deal on the Altima is for $199/month for 18 months, with $2,799 due at signing. When it’s all said and done, lessees will pay a total of $6,381 at the end of the term (tax not included).

Keep in mind that although that lease deal seems better, it still costs more than the Kia Soul deal if the lease were extended to 36 months ($12,762). Either way, lessees interested in the Altima deal will drive away in the base S trim level, which comes with an 8-inch infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. There’s also a 188-hp engine under the hood.

Regardless, we think the 2023 Kia Soul deal is still better, and anyone interested should visit their local Kia dealer by April 3rd. After that date, the lease rate could change.

Related

5 Cheap Cars To Lease in 2023