Car subscription, leasing, purchase: what is expensive, what is cheap?

Comparis, Saldo and K-Tipp all agree – a car subscription is more cost-effective than the total costs of leasing. But why did the “Kassensturz” comparison miss an important nuance? Here’s an overview of car cost comparisons from recent years and helpful tips on how to make the right choice.

Dreaming of a new car, but feeling overwhelmed by the maze of buying, leasing and car subscription options? The internet is full of car cost comparisons – but beware, not all of them are fair! Let us show you why a car subscription is often the smarter choice and how it can help you save real money.

In-depth cost check: What does a car really cost?

Owning a car is always a significant expense – that much is clear. Before you decide whether to buy, lease, or subscribe to a car, it’s worth taking a close look at the real costs. Unfortunately, many online comparisons lack transparency and can be misleading. This is especially true when comparing car subscriptions with leasing.

Our insight: In fair comparisons (i.e., with the same usage duration!), the car subscription often outperforms leasing significantly. Compared to buying, it heavily depends on your individual usage duration.

What others have known for years: Car subscription is a top choice

Let’s look at what leading Swiss media have pointed out years ago – long before Kassensturz created confusion:

• K-Tipp 2019: As early as 2019, K-Tipp wrote: "Car: A long-term rental is cheaper than leasing." This clearly highlights the attractiveness of car subscriptions for long-term mobility.
  
  
  
  
  
• Comparis 2020: In 2020, Comparis also concluded: "Car subscription is often cheaper than leasing." They even mentioned savings of over CHF 4,000 in extreme cases – a strong argument for car subscriptions
  
  
  

The Kassensturz car comparison 2021: An important nuance overlooked

You might remember the Kassensturz episode from 2021 claiming that car subscriptions are more expensive than leasing. That caused quite some confusion – but why?

The issue likely stemmed from the assumption that car subscriptions are primarily used for short, flexible periods. In reality, many of our customers choose subscriptions for longer durations – such as 36 or 48 months – because they appreciate the all-inclusive benefits and full cost control.

Kassensturz compared the following scenarios:

Scenario 1: A 4-year lease vs. changing car subscription every year.

Scenario 2: A 4-year lease vs. a 3-year car subscription.

If you switch your car subscription every year, it’s obviously going to cost more than a four-year lease! A fair cost comparison must take the duration into account.

Readers noticed the inaccuracy!

Many observant users immediately recognized and criticized the flawed methodology of the Kassensturz comparison. They rightly pointed out that only comparisons with the same duration are fair.

Even Comparis acknowledged in 2020 that the cost difference between subscriptions and leasing narrows when the lease term is shortened. This proves that flexibility has a price – in both car subscriptions and leasing.

The new reality: Save big with a car subscription!

The numbers speak for themselves: recent studies show that car subscriptions not only compete with leasing – they can help you save thousands of francs!

• Saldo 2025: The most recent study from Saldo confirms: “Save more than CHF 6,000 with a car subscription!” That’s a massive saving compared to total car costs.
  
  

Carvolution Best Price Guarantee: You always save

At Carvolution, we’re so confident that our car subscription is more affordable that we offer you a Best Price Guarantee. This means: if you compare equal durations and services, your car subscription with us is always cheaper than leasing. We make your car subscription comparison easy.

Conclusion: Your worry-free car is waiting

True car costs are often hidden. When buying or leasing, you still have to factor in insurance, maintenance, tire changes, taxes... These extra costs can add up quickly. With a car subscription, you enjoy full cost control: one fixed monthly rate covers it all. No surprise bills, no hidden fees – just get in and drive. That’s what makes car subscription comparisons so compelling.

Don’t be misled by flawed comparisons. Always check for equal durations and what’s included in the price. With a Carvolution car subscription, you drive worry-free – and save real money.

Ready to experience the benefits for yourself? Check out our current car subscriptions and start your personal comparison today.Take advantage of a non-binding consultation.