General rule—when interest rates are low, then buy; when high, then lease. Consumer Reports auto issue is a great reference for a ‘small’ low maintenance car .. like the Honda Civic or the Toyota Corolla . I also like to bypass the auto dealers and buy a 2–3yr old car of my choice, used but in good shape with low mileage. [I do not work for banks or car companies. I’ve just been thru this with my son.]