Most Anticipated Cars for Lease in 2026

Leasing a car in 2026 promises exciting new options—from electric vehicles to luxury crossovers and refined sedans. This guide highlights the most anticipated models, market trends, and what lease-hungry drivers can expect for the year ahead.

Why 2026 Is Poised to Be a Landmark Year for Leasing

• Lease Returns & Supply Shift: Lease maturities are forecast to drop by 41% in H1 2025, significantly reducing used-vehicle return volume, which influences both residual values and new-lease pricing dynamics.

• Used-Car Inflation: Limited off-lease supply has pushed used-car prices up. The average wholesale price for a three-year-old vehicle has increased by 45% since 2020, placing more pressure on leasing demand.

• Fuel-Efficiency Standards: New NHTSA rules require a 10% increase in fuel economy for the 2026 model year, moving industry average MPG toward 49 MPG. This shift will keep lease offerings more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly.

These factors mean that leasing in 2026 may offer better value, especially for newer, efficient vehicles.

Top Upcoming Models to Watch for Leasing

Alfa Romeo Stelvio (Gas & Hybrid)

The 2026 Stelvio returns with both gas and hybrid trims, built on Jeep Wagoneer S architecture. Expect strong styling blended with efficient powertrain options—great for drivers who want luxury and fuel flexibility.

Bentley Urban SUV (Ultra-Luxury)

A compact Bentley SUV priced around $150,000—a rare high-end model likely best suited for lease options within elite leasing programs or as a corporate fleet lease.

BMW 3 Series (Gas & EV Versions)

The Neue Klasse platform underpins the 2026 3 Series, offering both internal combustion and fully electric variants—making it versatile for both traditional and eco-conscious leasers. Expect pricing near $50,000.

Hyundai Palisade & Audi A6 (Redesigned Models)

Well-known nameplates like the Palisade and A6 receive major redesigns for 2026, keeping them fresh for lease markets thanks to improved tech and styling.

Affordable EVs—Chevy Bolt & Toyota C-HR+

New compact EVs arrive in 2026 with enhanced range and charging, increasing accessibility for eco-minded lessees on tighter budgets.

Toyota Corolla / Corolla Hybrid

Reliable, safe, and tech-improved, the updated Corolla and hybrid versions continue into 2026 as go-to budget-friendly lease options.

Toyota bZ / Subaru Trailseeker Electric SUVs

The refreshed bZ (formerly bZ4X) and Subaru Trailseeker offer AWD electric SUV options with ~260-mile range and Tesla Supercharger compatibility—ideal for adventurous lease drivers.

Lucid Earth (Sub-$50K Midsize EV)

Lucid’s upcoming midsize electric SUV (tentatively named Earth) is expected to cost under $50,000, offering compelling performance and a fresh choice in the EV lease market.

Market Conditions to Watch for Leasing Demand

EV Tax Credits & Lease Incentives

The “EV lease loophole” allowing full $7,500 federal tax credit application to leased vehicles ends in September 2025, raising the urgency to lease before incentives disappear. Leasing accounted for over 40% of EV deals in early 2024.
Meanwhile, lease uptake surged—nearly 60% of EVs acquired mid‑2025 were leased.

Lease Pricing Accessibility

Average auto lease payments sit near $638/month, approaching loan payments—home to affordability concerns.
Simultaneously, loans are becoming more burdensome—almost 20% of new loans exceed $1,000/month, highlighting the cost-efficiency appeal of leasing.

What This Means for Lease Customers in 2026

1. Choose early—incentives like EV credits expire before or during the lease.

2. Focus on fuel-efficient models—tighter MPG regulations may boost them.

3. Leverage new redesigns and tech upgrades, especially in models like the Palisade, 3 Series, and Corolla Hybrid.

4. Watch EV volume—as lease returns increase, competitive lease prices may drop (but only post‑2026 as supply returns).

5. Luxury EVs may still command premium pricing, but emerging affordable EVs (like Lucid’s Earth or Toyota bZ) can offer value.

Quick Comparison Table – 2026 Lease Candidates