Explain this financial paradox to me like I’m 16. Why would I, or anyone, lease a car?

“My contract says tax, title, fees and licensing.” (Photo subject is a model.) - Getty Images/iStockphoto Dear Quentin, If you are leasing a car, what’s the point of paying thousands of dollars due at lease signing? My contract says tax, title, fees and licensing — but then wouldn’t I have to pay that again at the end of the lease period, if I buy it? Please explain to me, like I’m 16, why anyone would lease a car? Curious Reader Most Read from MarketWatch Related: 2025 was one hell of a year. Consumer ...