The Decade that "Was": A Great Auto Leasing Experience

One of the upbeat moments of the last 10 years was leasing a 2010 Toyota in the summer of '09: I was in and out of the dealer with my new machine, fully prepped, in less than 4 hours. My lease payment on the same model was $65 less than the one I signed 3 years earlier. Though the model was the same, I now had a 6 cylinder, 280 HP engine, about twice the HP of the earlier model. Stabilitrac, giving the car much more stability on turns, wet pavement etc, is now a part of the base cost as is the new transmission; with smooth manual downshifting, it is a breeze to drive and definite plus.

The vehicle is low key and 'world class' and happens to be my fourth Camry--and my fifth Toyota. It's the best value out there. Best of all, the lease payment is under $300 , with no acquisition fee, no down payment... and Michelins to boot.

The key to negotiating a great deal is to pick a reliable dealer, who has been in business for decades (in my case since 1969), establish an ongoing relationship with them, establish a strong credit rating in high 700's+, bring in newspaper deals offered by the manufacturer and be prepared to 'walk' if you are being given the run around.

It's a buyer's market in these tough economic times, so do your homework. Be patient, negotiate your deal and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Happy and Safe Motoring on the roads and in life! Happy New Decade to all!.