Upfront Cost Nil to minimal (up to 100% funded) Significant down payment required
Balance Sheet Impact Off-balance sheet (operating lease) Assets and loans are both on the balance sheet
Ownership Lessor retains ownership The business owns the vehicle
Tax Treatment Full rental deductible as expense Depreciation + interest deductible
Fleet Flexibility Easy to upgrade at the end of the term Disposal required before upgrade
Residual Value Risk Borne by the lessor Borne by the Business