Is that $3000 a deposit that you get if you return it in good condition? In that case we would definitely call that renting.

> Is the difference between renting and leasing even meaningful?

Where I live, yes. If you lease you are the owner, with the financing company having the ability to seize it when you don't pay. If you rent you are not the owner, but are allowed to use it. Renting is a bit plebeian.