Here in the States, I have never considered leasing a car. Once you exceed a certain number of miles, you'll pay dearly. Because of the great distance between my residence and the hospital, relatives, etc. and there not being any public transport, leasing is not practical.

I have applied for a two to five year job in London. It's a very slim chance that I will get it, and I'm not sure I would accept it if it were offered to me. However, I do want to be prepared if it happens. Is the leasing of cars popular in the UK? I doubt I would take public transport to and from the job because of the type of work I do. Also, I'm not sure how many miles I would put on a car in that time.

I can't say for sure, but I doubt leasing would be cost efficient here either. As for driving around in London - good luck with that. Especially if you are talking central London. Be prepared to spend most of your day in your car. Good luck with the job offer, whether you decide to take it or not.

Thanks. The job would be on the outskirts of London and we would try and live fairly close by. We experienced a couple hours of hell driving in London back in September. Never again! :o

I drive in and around London and since the congestion charges its a bit easier travelling. The main snarl-ups are from 8-9am and 4.30-6.00 in the evening, i'd say the M25 is the worst place to end up these days, one static roundabout ! Most companies around London supply a company vehicle Mark if you travel during your job. If not, you will pay from £100.00 per week upwards for a leased vehicle.

Does anyone lease vehicles on a yearly basis? I guess it's a little more popular here. Some of the automakers have programs to where a customer would pay a comparable monthly note to those who purchase new vehicles. It enables you to drive a new or nearly-new vehicle every two to three years. However, when you return the vehicle at the end of the contract, you will pay so much per mile if you exceed their yearly limit. Usually, it's 12 or 15,000 miles. That wouldn't work for me as I have 20,000 on my nine-month old Toyota.

This site has some cars available on six month terms, Mark. It might give you some idea as to costs

http://www.lingscars.com/car-hire.php?pch=1

I know it's because of the devaluation of the dollar, but YIKES! Me leasing a car would cost as much as my mortgage note! :D An old clunker or scooter might be best.