Best New Car Lease Deals for May 2026
Key takeaways
- Returning lessees, you have more purchasing power this month than you might think.
- Michael Simari|Car and Driver Car dealers are preparing to accept a flood of EVs returning from expired leases this year.
- While that influx lowers prices on the used market, automakers know that without federal incentives propping up sales, they need corporate discounts to entice all those returning lessees and keep their business.
Why this matters: an automotive development that could shape industry direction or buying decisions.
Returning lessees, you have more purchasing power this month than you might think.
Michael Simari|Car and Driver Car dealers are preparing to accept a flood of EVs returning from expired leases this year. According to Car Dealership Guy, the amount of used EVs will nearly triple in 2026 and are on track to nearly double again in 2027. That's part of some 470,000 extra leased cars scheduled for return this year than in 2025, according to JDPower.
While that influx lowers prices on the used market, automakers know that without federal incentives propping up sales, they need corporate discounts to entice all those returning lessees and keep their business. We're seeing automakers get creative in May, with waived down payments, short terms, and great prices for popular models. Have a look below and also check out May's best finance deals.