Used car leasing is growing rapidly in Swedish cities

Privatleasing has long been associated with brand-new cars straight from the factory. But a new trend is redrawing the map: more and more people are choosing to privately lease used cars. Fresh statistics from Riddermark Bil show that 7.33 per cent of all used passenger cars (up to 10 years old) are now financed via leasing — and the trend is driven primarily by the major cities.

Stockholm leads the way

In Stockholm County, a full 11.84 per cent of all used cars are leased, well above the national average. Västra Götaland follows at 8.66 per cent and Skåne at 6.46 per cent. In smaller and more sparsely populated counties, the share remains below five per cent.

"We're seeing a new trend, namely that established new-car brands have started re-leasing cars after completed privatleasing contracts. In other words, privatleasing is no longer exclusively a new-car phenomenon," says Jonas Björkman, business analyst at Riddermark Bil.

Why lease a used car?

There are several advantages to leasing a used car compared to buying:

Particularly interesting is the trend for electric cars. Many used EVs that return after completed privatleasing contracts are in excellent condition with factory battery warranties still valid. Volvo, for example, has launched campaigns for used privatleasing of the EX40 through its Selekt programme, with prices that can be significantly lower than for a new car.

From ownership to a mobility service

The statistics reveal a broader societal shift. In major cities with high mobility and a wide range of choices, demand for flexible solutions is increasing. The car is increasingly seen as a service rather than a possession — just as we've already grown accustomed to with mobile phones and streaming services.

For the Swedish car market, this means the boundary between the new-car and used-car markets is blurring. Major leasing companies and dealerships are now building structures to handle used privatleasing at scale.

How to find the best used leasing deal

The market for used privatleasing is still in its infancy, and the selection varies greatly depending on where in the country you live. City dwellers have the most options, but the trend is gradually spreading.

Tips if you're considering used privatleasing:

1. **Compare with new** — Sometimes campaign prices on new cars are just as good

2. **Check the warranty** — Make sure the factory warranty still applies for the entire lease period

3. **Inspect the car** — Request an independent inspection before you sign

4. **Calculate the total cost** — Including insurance, tax and any service charges

On PrivatLeasa.se you can compare privatleasing deals and stay up to date on the latest trends in the Swedish leasing market.