The residual value is 45% of 34540 =15543+tax is what you will be able to buy the vehicle for at the end of 3 years. That value is fixed regardless of how many miles you place on the car. Leasing is really attractive on this vehicle in my opinion because if incentives are not available in 3 years like the 7500 or 5k in Ca, it just drives the value of the car upwards. My prediction is that 3 year old leafs may sell in the 20's in 3 years if a new one is 34k+ with limited or no rebates/tax credits. I think its an opportunity.