4x4 Rental Iceland for Every Adventure
If you're planning to explore Iceland beyond the main roads, a 4x4 is the way to go. It handles rough terrain, unpredictable weather, and gives you access to places regular cars can’t reach. Whether it's winter roads or summer highlands, our Iceland car rental 4x4 options are ready. Simple, reliable, and built for Iceland.
Do you need a 4x4 rental car in Iceland?
It depends on where and when you’re going. If you plan to stick to Reykjavík and the Golden Circle during summer, a regular car will usually do the job. But if you’re visiting during winter or plan on seeing the highlands, a 4x4 is highly recommended and in some cases, required by law.
F-roads, which are mountain roads in Iceland’s interior, are only open in summer and legally require a 4x4 vehicle. These roads are rough, sometimes include river crossings, and are completely off-limits to standard cars. Even on paved roads, Iceland’s weather can shift fast. A 4x4 gives you better traction and peace of mind in snow, rain, and wind.
So, while you might not always need one, having a 4x4 rental gives you the freedom to explore more and handle changing road conditions safely.
Most Popular 4x4 Vehicles in Iceland
Looking for the right 4x4 for your trip? These vehicles are proven choices for driving in Iceland’s unpredictable conditions.
Dacia Duster
Affordable, fuel-efficient, and capable enough for most gravel roads and F-roads in good weather. Great for couples or small groups.
Land Rover
Defender is rugged and built for extreme terrain, while Discovery adds comfort and tech—ideal for highland routes and remote areas.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Powerful and spacious SUV, ideal for long trips and highland travel. Handles snow, mud, and rivers with ease.
Suzuki Jimny
Compact and agile, perfect for solo travelers or couples exploring F-roads without a large SUV. Easy to park and surprisingly capable.
Why Rent a 4x4 in Iceland
Safety in Winter
Snow, ice, and strong winds are common in Iceland’s colder months. A 4x4 provides extra traction and stability, making it much safer to drive on slippery or unpredictable roads.
Go Beyond the Tourist Trail
With a 4x4, you can explore areas most tourists never see. From remote hot springs to less-traveled coastal roads, a four-wheel drive opens up parts of Iceland that aren’t reachable in a small car, especially on f-roads.
Comfortable for Long Drives
Road trips in Iceland often involve long hours behind the wheel. Most 4x4s offer more space, higher seating, and better suspension—making them more comfortable for exploring the Ring Road or the Westfjords.
Choosing CarRentals.is
Wide Range of Vehicles
Whether you need a tough 4x4 for mountain roads or a compact car for the city, we offer rentals that match your route, season, and budget.
Convenient Pick-Up & Drop-Off
Collect your car where it suits you—like Keflavík Airport or downtown Reykjavík—so you can hit the road with no extra hassle.
Flexible Insurance Options
Choose from trusted insurance packages that match your comfort level. Stay protected and drive stress-free, no matter the weather or road conditions.