Doesn’t work for everyone but I started leasing my cars 4 years ago each on 2 year contracts and wouldn’t do anything else now.
It does depend on getting a good deal at the time, but it can be well worth it if you shop around. I like it because I get a brand new car every 2 years and know I won’t have any issues to pay out for.
My first one was a top of the range brand new Astra, leather seats and all the stuff, and I paid £160 a month and about £800 upfront. Then I now have a Focus for £170 and same upfront payment but took the maintenance package out on it, so all servicing and tyres etc are included in the price.
Looking for my next one now in the next two months, but just waiting on a decent deal for something
Like I said, some people don’t leasing, some do. I like it and wouldn’t get a car any other way now. With your budget it could be something you could look into anyway