For whom is a car subscription in Switzerland worthwhile?

Should I buy or lease my car – or even subscribe to it? The car subscription is becoming increasingly important in Switzerland. We have weighed up the pros and cons for you and show you when and for whom a car subscription makes sense.

Car subscriptions have been available worldwide for several years. Initially, they were primarily intended for wealthy customers to try out various chic sports cars – but soon the potential of the idea was recognized and expanded. Why buy a car when you only need it for a few months a year? Why choose a certain model when you might want to try another one in six months? Since 2018, there have also been numerous providers of car subscriptions in Switzerland. We'll give you an overview here and show you when a car subscription is worthwhile for you.

What does a car subscription include?

The car subscription includes all costs except refueling. You decide on a car model that you can then drive like your own car during the subscription period – countless brands and models are already available in Switzerland, from the Fiat 500 to the Tesla. The cheapest car plans start at around 500 francs per month, with subscription terms ranging from 1 to 36 months.

Advantages and disadvantages of a car subscription

A car subscription is convenient – there's no doubt about that. Your dream car will be delivered to your doorstep, and you will have optimal cost control thanks to the monthly fee. Running costs such as insurance, taxes, tire changes and service are included.

When comparing costs, keep in mind that depending on the provider and the selected mileage package, any costs for additional kilometers may be added. An entrance fee and a deductible are also possible, for example in the event of parking damage

Flexibility is also an important keyword when it comes to car subscriptions. With subscription periods of six months, you can drive sporty in summer and rely on all-wheel drive in winter. If you have a new family, you can switch from a four-seater to a seven-seater - and car fans can try out several brands in turn.

If, on the other hand, you enjoy owning your own car and you like to tinker with the interior and exterior equipment, then the car from the car subscription is not the right solution.

When is a car subscription worthwhile?

… if you only need a car for a certain amount of time

You know that for a certain period of time – several months or one to three years – you'll be driving more often for the job. Until now, there has been no solution to such a situation without a car subscription. The cost of long-term rental is very high – and it's hardly worth buying or leasing a car if it's sitting unused in the parking lot for days or weeks. If the car subscription expires, you simply hand in the car and the issue is settled for you. And if you have found a liking and want to keep the car - there are providers where you can lease or buy the vehicle later on good terms.

… if you travel a lot and have little time

If you drive a lot, i.e. drive around 2,000 to 2,500 kilometres per month, you can subscribe to a small car such as a Fiat 500 or a Renault Clio with a frequent driver subscription from around 600 francs per month (for a one-year term, for example). Since the provider takes care of upcoming services, your head remains free for the numerous appointments in your calendar.

… if you are not on the road much and have little time

If you travel less than 800 kilometers per month, you can opt for a small mileage package. Then, depending on the provider, the Fiat 500 costs from 450 per month for a term of one year. The longer term you think, the cheaper the monthly fee. For example, the popular Ford Ka+ costs less than 400 per month with a subscription of 36 months. The same applies to you: the car is in the parking lot, you pay the monthly fee, and you don't have to worry about anything else.

… if you want to have a car, but have too few reserves in your account to buy a car

The cost of the car subscription is clearer than the amount of money you need to have ready to buy a car. In addition, you don't have to amortize a car from the car subscription, and you don't have to ask yourself when and at what price you can resell your car later.

… if you appreciate variety

Do you like cars? Then you might be happy about your new car – and a year later you'll still look enviously in the rear-view mirror when the latest edition drives on the motorway behind you. Or do you read about improvements and new services, and would like to try them out before you decide to buy? Then a car subscription, where you can try out a different brand or model after the subscription period has expired, is made for you.

… if you love sporty cars

Would you like to treat yourself to something and be sporty? With a car subscription, for example, you can drive an Audi R8 for a month as if it were your own. Or a Tesla Model 3. Or a Toyota Supra 3.0. or or or...

Conclusion – there are many reasons for a car subscription

You can see it for yourself – the car subscription is a solution for very different requirements. Whether you're a sports car fan or a city runabout, a frequent or infrequent driver, you're sure to find a solution that is worthwhile for you among the wide range of offers for a car subscription in Switzerland.