What is a European Car Lease?
Why a Car Lease is the Smart Choice for
Australians Travelling to Europe in 2027
Planning a European Adventure in 2027?
Whether you're dreaming of driving through the vineyards of France, exploring the Italian lakes, cruising Germany's scenic autobahns, or discovering the charming villages of Spain and Portugal, having your own vehicle can completely transform your European holiday.
What is a European Car Lease?
A European Car Lease is a special tax-free buy-back program available exclusively to non-European residents, including Australians. Instead of renting a vehicle, you temporarily lease a brand-new car directly from participating manufacturers before returning it at the end of your holiday.
While many Australians automatically consider a rental car, there's a better option for extended holidays a European Car Lease.
If you're travelling for three weeks or up to sim months, a European lease could save you money while offering greater convenience, flexibility, and peace of mind.
Why Australians Should Consider Leasing Instead of Renting
1. Drive a Brand-New Vehicle
Unlike traditional rental companies where you may receive a vehicle that's already travelled thousands of kilometres, European leasing guarantees a brand-new car direct from the factory.
This means you'll enjoy:
- The latest safety technology
- Modern navigation systems
- Better fuel efficiency
- Maximum reliability throughout your trip
2. Comprehensive Insurance with No Excess
One of the biggest surprises with rental cars is the insurance costs.
Most European lease programs include:
- Comprehensive insurance
- Theft protection
- Collision damage cover
- Third-party liability
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Factory warranty
- No insurance excess on eligible plans
That means fewer unexpected costs and less stress while travelling.
3. Unlimited Kilometres - Europe is made for road trips.
Whether you're travelling from Paris to the French Riviera, crossing into Italy, Switzerland, Germany or Spain, unlimited kilometres allow you to explore without worrying about daily distance limits or additional charges.
4. Better Value for Longer Holidays - Traditional rentals often become expensive after two or three weeks.
European leasing generally becomes the better value option for holidays lasting 15 days to around 175 days, depending on the provider and return location.
5. Travel Across Multiple Countries - Most lease vehicles can be driven throughout much of continental Europe, making them ideal for travellers wanting to visit multiple destinations on one trip.
Imagine collecting your vehicle in Paris before exploring:
- France
- Italy
- Germany
- Belgium
- Netherlands
- Switzerland
- Austria
- Spain
- Portugal
- Luxembourg
Always confirm country coverage before departure, as conditions vary between providers.
Who is Eligible?
Most European lease programs require travellers to:
- Be an Australian resident
- Live outside the European Union
- Travel for tourism purposes
- Stay in the EU for no more than approximately 185 days within a 12-month period
- Hold a valid driver's licence
- Meet the minimum age requirement (often 18 years or older)
Popular Vehicles Available
European lease programs commonly offer new models from manufacturers including:
- Peugeot
- Renault
- Citroën
- DS Automobiles
Is Leasing Right for Your 2027 Holiday?
A European Car Lease is ideal if you:
- Are travelling for three weeks or longer
- Plan to visit several European countries
- Want a guaranteed new vehicle
- Prefer fixed, all-inclusive pricing
- Want comprehensive insurance included
- Value comfort and convenience over short-term rental deals
Tips for Booking in 2027 - As international travel continues to grow, booking early can provide the widest choice of vehicles and collection locations.
Register your expression of interest today, and we'll be in touch as soon as next year's European Car Lease program is released.
Once you have your travel plans finalised, please send us the following informations so we can send you a few options to match your needs:
- Name as per passport of the main driver
- Preferred car brand: Peugeot, Citroen, DS or Renault:
- Pick-up date and location:
- Drop-off date and location:
- If known, the approximate time of pick-up or flight number.
- Manual or Automatic car preference:
- Number of people in the car with luggage:
- Accessories required (child seat, snow tyres...):
- Main driver phone number:
- Countries you will be driving in:
For more information, please call us on 1300 302 623 to discuss your driving holiday travel plans, or email us and we'll send you our car lease brochure to help you better understand the program and its advantages.
