Most drivers prefer financing over leasing for several important reasons. First, loan payments contribute to cash value buildup, creating equity you can use toward your next vehicle. Second, financing gives you the chance to own the car outright once payments are complete, and that eliminates monthly loan payments. Third, ownership provides the freedom to modify your vehicle with Subaru parts and accessories. Finally, there's no mileage limit when you own your Subaru, whereas a lease limits the number of miles you can drive to avoid a penalty.

When your lease term concludes, you typically have three options. You can return the vehicle and lease a new Subaru model. You can buy your leased Subaru at the predetermined residual value. Finally, you can simply return the vehicle and start getting the benefits of buying a Subaru with a loan.

Unlike financing, leasing doesn't allow you to build cash value or equity in the vehicle. Your lease payments cover depreciation and fees, but don't give you an ownership stake. At the end of your lease, you return the vehicle without any equity to show for your payments.

For most drivers, a loan costs less over the long run because it provides the advantage of building cash value. Once your loan is paid off, you can drive your Subaru for years without monthly payments while the vehicle keeps some trade-in value. This equity isn't available with leasing because it's like renting. You continuously make payments without building ownership. Buyers who keep their vehicles for an extended period get the greatest benefit from financing with a loan.