How to buy a car without a down payment in Kyiv: reality, conditions, and tips in 2025

Buying a car is a significant step, especially for residents of a large city like Kyiv, where personal transport has long been a symbol of independence as well as a means of getting around. However, not every Ukrainian has the option to pay 10–30% of the vehicle’s price upfront. That is why in 2025 many look for how to buy a car without an initial payment — on credit or installments, without hidden fees and inflated interest rates.

In this article we will consider how realistic it is today to obtain an auto loan without a start payment in Kyiv, which banks offer such programs, and what to pay attention to before signing a contract.

Why zero-down programs are gaining popularity in Ukraine

Rising car prices and exchange rate fluctuations make car ownership more costly. If in 2023 the average price of a new car in Kyiv was about 900,000–1,000,000 UAH, by the end of 2025 experts forecast a rise to 1.2–1.4 million UAH.

Meanwhile, the incomes of most Ukrainians grow much slower. Therefore, the ability to buy a car without an initial payment becomes a realistic way to acquire transport without long savings. Banks and car dealers, in turn, are interested in such schemes — they stimulate sales and expand the client base.

What it means to buy a car without an initial payment

The down payment is the amount (usually 10–30% of the car's price) that the client pays upfront when taking out a loan. If a program provides for zero down payment, it means the bank finances 100% of the car's cost.

However, it is important to understand the nuances:

• Interest rates on such loans are usually 1–2% higher because the bank takes on greater risk.

• Official income confirmation and a positive credit history are required.

• Almost always, compulsory insurance will be a requirement (KASKO) and life insurance for the borrower.

Real offers in Kyiv for 2025

In Ukraine, zero down payment programs do exist, but they are not available to everyone. Here are some examples:

• PrivatBank — the “Auto on Credit” program with the possibility of applying without a down payment given stable income, loan term up to 7 years.

• Oschadbank — auto loan without down payment for new and used cars when purchasing through partner dealerships.

• KreditMarket — installment plan for buying a car with a minimal document package and no down payment.

• UkraAuto and Winner Automotive — offer promotions with banks where zero down payment is offset by a manufacturer discount.

Important: zero-down programs usually apply to limited car models or only when buying a new car from an official dealer.

Advantages and risks of an auto loan without a down payment

Advantages

• Ability to get the car immediately without waiting to save up.

• Free funds can be used for insurance, registration, or repairs.

• Programs are suitable for those with a stable income but without a large upfront payment.

Risks

• Interest rate is higher than a conventional loan with a down payment.

• Mandatory insurance (KASKO, life) increases total costs.

• Tighter requirements for solvency and credit history.

• Possible hidden fees or mandatory connection of additional services.

How to choose a favorable program?

Before taking out a loan, carefully study all offers. Key parameters to pay attention to:

1. Interest rate — banks sometimes offer promotions with temporary rate reductions.

2. Loan term — the longer it is, the lower the monthly payment, but the higher the overpayment.

3. Total cost of the loan — consider fees, insurances, account maintenance.

4. Conditions for early repayment — some banks require notice or charge a fee.

5. Bank reputation — better to approach large, proven institutions with transparent terms.

Step-by-step process of buying a car without a down payment in Kyiv

1. Set your budget and calculate a comfortable monthly payment.

2. Choose a car that fits the bank’s conditions.

3. Compare bank and dealership offers.

4. Submit an online application or arrange credit through the dealer.

5. Sign the contract and insure the car.

6. Get the car and start payments.

Common mistakes buyers make

• Not paying attention to contract terms and fine print.

• Overestimating their financial capabilities.

• Ignoring offers from other banks.

• Declining insurance, which can increase risks in case of an accident.

Alternatives to an auto loan with no down payment

If bank terms don’t suit you, consider other options:

• Trade-in — use your old car as a down payment.

• Dealer installment plan — sometimes more advantageous than a bank loan.

• Auto leasing for individuals — allows using the car with a future buyout.

• Savings plan — pay part of the amount upfront and finance the remainder to reduce overpayment.

Bottom line

Buying a car without a down payment in Kyiv in 2025 is real, but the conditions of such programs are becoming stricter. Banks thoroughly check borrowers, require insurance and income verification.

Nevertheless, with a responsible approach and careful bank selection, you can successfully obtain a loan without an upfront payment and get the desired car.

Current tips and comparative reviews of loan programs can be found on the site zvelta.com, which gathers useful information for car enthusiasts in Ukraine.