Hi, I am currently leasing a 2006 G35x and my lease will expire in January 2010. So it comes down to a decision to buy out the 2006 or upgrade to the 2010.

The 2006 car, was fully loaded basically, and the buyout price was 21k. Let's assume the 2010x loaded would cost around 38k.

Are there any big changes to the G sedan for 2010?

I can afford both, but the price difference is one of the main issues I'm looking at.

If it was you, which would you go with and for what reasons?

I would not pay 21k for an 06. Turn it in and get the new one. 50 more hp, 2 more gears, much nicer inside and out.

A loaded 09x is $42k+, so you would be looking at a base (or close to) x for $38k

Yea, I guess I was figuring some sort of discount because of what I've read recently about dealers trying to sell cars.

If it's 42k, do you think the 2010 is worth double the 2006?

Obviously it depends on a lot of factors and my personal preference... but just trying to get a general idea.

Since you're leasing, all you should care about is your monthly cost of ownership.

Comparing a new '10 car to a 50% depreciated '06 car is apples and oranges.

I've always leased, so to me it's all about monthly payment. The "price" of the car is irrelevant. All I compare is what I can get for what I can afford per month, regardless of make, model, or year.

Actually I was thinking about buying this time around. But that is an excellent point you make about comparing the bottom line lease payment.

In my opinion, there's only two reasons to lease:

1. there's a tax advantage to do so (expense vs. depreciation);
2. you like to have a new car every 3-4 years.

Both apply to me. If there was no financial benefit, and I planned to keep the car for 5+ years, I'd always buy used--and not buy new nor lease.