12-03-2025
Are you planning to self-drive on your trip to Iceland? The first thing you need to consider is what type of vehicle you should rent. One question many visitors have is, do you need a 4x4 in Iceland? The answer to this question is complex and depends on your plans for your journey. Here’s how you can decide whether a 4x4 is necessary.
While you don’t need a 4x4 in every situation, knowing when you will need one is vital to help you decide whether to rent one for your trip. The time of year you will travel, where you would like to go, and the size of your group can all help you determine which vehicle is the smart choice for safety, value, and comfort.
Driving on F-roads is the most common reason you may need to rent a 4x4 in Iceland. These roads are unpaved and generally not maintained. They also often contain unabridged river crossings that can be dangerous without the appropriate vehicle. Before you decide to drive the F-roads, you will need to know the laws and car rental rules that apply.
Do I need a 4x4 in Iceland? If you plan to drive the F-roads, Icelandic law dictates you must do so in a 4x4 vehicle. These four-wheel drive vehicles are required for their high ground clearance and other capabilities to drive unpaved roads that may have potholes, large rocks, rivers, or other obstructions.
Car rental companies often go further with their rules. If you intend to drive the F-roads on your Iceland trip, you will need to rent a 4x4 vehicle that is approved for the roads you wish to drive. Not all F-roads are created equal, and rental companies often have a list of which roads are allowed and which ones are not. Failing to follow these rules can be costly when returning your vehicle.
Another reason you may need a 4x4 in Iceland is during the winter months. Winter conditions in Iceland often consist of cold temperatures, ice, snow, and wind, creating slick driving conditions. Renting a 4x4 doesn’t replace good winter driving experience, but it does play a role in helping you stay safe on the roads during this time of year.
When snow and ice make road conditions slippery, a 4x4 will generally have a better grip on the road, particularly when equipped with studded tires. A more powerful 4x4 is also less likely to get stuck in snow drifts or have trouble navigating slippery road conditions. With unpredictable weather conditions, having a 4x4 can give you some extra peace of mind.
However, it is important to note that having a 4x4 does not eliminate the risks of driving in poor weather conditions. You should always monitor road conditions and weather conditions and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly. 4x4 vehicles often have a higher profile as well, making them more risky to drive in high winds. Stay aware of weather warnings and heed them.
Many travelers tend to stick to the Ring Road, venturing off onto smaller roads, but overall, staying out of the highlands. During the summer months, the highland roads, which are usually F-roads or smaller tracks, are open, inviting visitors to explore more untouched scenery. However, you need the appropriate vehicle to do so.
When asking “do you need a 4-wheel drive in Iceland?” the answer is a resounding “yes” if you intend to drive in the highlands. The roads and tracks here are unmaintained and often contain deep potholes, dips, larger rocks, unbridged river crossings, sharp inclines, unstable surfaces, and more. Without a 4x4, you will struggle to get where you need to go without damaging the vehicle.
If you want to explore the highlands, be sure you rent a vehicle with high ground clearance to avoid undercarriage damage. High clearance is also required for river crossings to prevent flooding the engine. Finally, a 4x4 will more likely have better suspension and traction to ensure you can safely navigate obstacles without harming yourself or the vehicle.
Not every visitor requires a 4x4. Once you have a general idea of where you want to go on your trip, you can worry about answering the question, “do you need a 4x4 in Iceland?” If you are only driving the Ring Road, main paved roads, or small gravel roads extending from the main road without the “F-road” distinction, a 2WD vehicle may be all that is needed, especially in summer.
If you decide that renting a 4x4 isn’t the right option for you, there are fantastic routes you can consider to see the country without feeling like you’re missing out. Here are several of the potential routes you can cover with a 2WD vehicle.
The best way to stay safe when driving in Iceland without a 4WD vehicle is to stay off F-roads. You will still be able to drive on some gravel roads, but use caution. When you do drive on gravel roads, slow down to prevent vehicle damage.
In addition to staying on paved roads and certain gravel roads, you should also regularly monitor road and weather conditions. Weather can change rapidly in Iceland, and it’s best to be prepared to change your plans accordingly, especially when weather warnings are issued or high winds are expected.
Some other tips for driving safely, whether with a 2WD or 4WD, are to keep your tank fueled and watch for animals in the road. In some areas, gas stations are further apart, making it essential to fill up when you see one. Animals, especially sheep, often roam freely in the summer. Watch for them along the road and slow down as they sometimes dart across the road unexpectedly.
As you browse your rental agency for 4x4 and 2WD vehicles, you will likely notice a price difference immediately. 4x4 vehicles will cost more per day than smaller 2WD vehicles. However, the increased cost gives you more freedom in where you can drive and more space to accommodate passengers and luggage.It’s important to evaluate the pros and cons of renting each type before evaluating the price differences. In addition to the daily rental cost, there are other price differences that will come into play when budgeting your trip.
For instance, smaller 2WD vehicles are often more fuel efficient. If you rent a 4x4 vehicle, you will have higher fuel costs. You will also need to evaluate the insurance costs and deposit requirements to help you make an informed choice that fits within your budget and can accommodate your travel plans.
Once you have gathered some price quotes on 4x4 vehicles and 2WD cars, you are likely left wondering if a 4WD is worth the extra price. The answer to this question depends on what you intend to do on your vacation and what the weather conditions may be. These vehicles are worth it in the following situations:
The price of any rental cars in Iceland will fluctuate depending on the season and the demand for vehicles. How early you book can also affect the price you will pay for your rental.
In general, renting a 4x4 in the summer months will cost significantly more than renting one in the winter or the shoulder seasons. If you wait until the last minute, you can also expect to pay more because there are fewer vehicles available to meet the demand.
The summer season generally runs from June through August; the winter season applies between October and April; and May and September are the shoulder months.
Not all 4x4 cars are created equal, especially in Iceland. Price should not be your only consideration when choosing one of these vehicles. Here are the best 4x4 cars for rent in Iceland to meet your varying needs.
The Dacia Duster is among the most popular 4x4 models due to its affordability and durability. This budget-friendly 4x4 is better for solo travelers or couples due to less space but works well for gravel roads. Dusters are not suitable for larger river crossings.
Another popular option is the Toyota Land Cruiser, with a higher ground clearance ideal for the highlands, including river crossings. The Land Cruiser has plenty of space for up to seven passengers and their luggage. It’s one of the most rugged SUVs to ensure you get the most from your Icelandic experience.
Toyota RAV4 is another smaller 4x4 that is popular among visitors. This SUV is perfect for comfort in the highlands with better fuel efficiency than larger SUVs. It’s the ideal option for icy, snowy roads and gravel roads.
Another affordable option is the Suzuki Jimny. The Jimny is a small, nimble SUV that may not be suitable for all F-roads or deeper river crossings. It’s a great choice for rocky terrain and steep inclines due to its true 4x4 capabilities.
The Suzuki Vitara is a compact, five-seat SUV with excellent fuel efficiency, making it an affordable 4x4 rental option. This vehicle features a lockable 4WD system that offers better traction than some other options. It’s a great choice in the winter.
Create a rough outline of your trip plans is one of the best ways to ensure you choose the right 4WD vehicle for your Iceland itinerary. The time of year you will travel and whether you plan to drive in the highlands on the F-roads are the most important factors in deciding which vehicle you need.
Another vital factor in choosing the right 4WD vehicle is how many people are in your party. Some SUVs are smaller and can only accommodate up to five passengers with varying amounts of luggage space. Others can fit up to seven passengers with plenty of luggage space. You want your entire party to be comfortable throughout your trip.
Be sure to read through the information on the rental website to ensure you choose a 4WD car with the right features and space to meet your needs. Fuel efficiency can also play a role in your choice, ensuring you don’t spend too much on fuel during your trip.
Do you need a 4x4 in Iceland? The answer all depends on your budget, how many travel companions, where you want to go, and what time of year you will travel. Whether you’re visiting in the winter and want greater peace of mind or wish to visit the highlands and traverse the F-roads, a 4x4 rental can be the best decision you make.
Booking early is the key to getting the best rates when you rent a car in Iceland. Whether you choose one of the most popular 4x4 vehicles in the country or a 2WD that will fit your needs, you can enjoy the trip of a lifetime.