The Best 4x4 Rentals for Tackling Iceland's F-Roads

Iceland offers an amazing selection of natural wonders, but reaching these destinations isn't always what you’d call ‘easy.’ Most of the central Highlands are hidden behind rugged, unpaved roads that can be rough, lightly maintained, and even closed off during the winter months.

These Fjallvegur roads, usually referred to as F-Roads, are extremely rough, often bordering on treacherous. If you want to drive on these roads, you’ll need more than your average front-wheel drive. In fact, 4x4s are mandatory. 

Here’s everything you should know about the best 4x4 rentals for conquering Iceland’s iconic F-roads. 

Why You Need an F-Road Car Rental in Iceland

By law, you can’t tour the F-Roads in anything other than a 4x4 vehicle. This is due to the more challenging nature of the trails and the demands they can place on travel. 

Regular rental vehicles can struggle on these roads or even find them impassible. In contrast, 4x4s can not only get you across the rough terrain, but also increase the quality and comfort of your experience. 

That’s because a 4x4 offers many things that other vehicles don’t:

• Excellent cargo-carrying capacity
• The ability to traverse difficult terrain without ‘spinning out’ and getting stuck
• Strong suspension to handle potholes and rough roads 
• Greater suspension height to clear low obstacles and streams
• Increased ride height that allows you to take full advantage of the wonderful sights around you

The Best 4x4 For Iceland F-Roads

Choosing a 4x4 rental to carry your group and gear can set the stage for a great Icelandic experience. Get it right, and your greatest struggle will be snapping the perfect photos. Get it wrong, and you may have an unpleasant, uncomfortable, or even dangerous experience. 

Here are some F-Road suitable car rental options to consider for your next big visit to Iceland:

• For budget fun, the Dacia Duster can’t be beat. It offers a manual transmission for a great rental price, so you can explore to your heart’s desire.
• The Jeep Compass 4xe offers an eco-friendly powertrain coupled with Jeep’s legendary surefooted handling.
• The Hyundai Tucson is a capable, stylish 4x4 with modern styling. It also offers an automatic transmission for those who may not feel comfortable driving manual vehicles. 
• Finally, the Nissan Qashqai blends practicality with style. With a smooth automatic transmission and advanced safety features, it’s perfect for mountain adventures. 

All of these are excellent vehicles, but you may feel yourself drawn more to one over the others. Be sure to review each vehicle’s seat capacity, fuel type, and additional rental options to make your trip even more enjoyable.

Deciding Between Iceland F-Roads Rental Cars Options

Because F-Roads involve slow, cautious driving, choosing the right rental vehicle often comes down to the type of experience you want.

Are you planning on taking lots of pictures? While admiring the amazing, wide-open spaces, you may want an SUV that sits higher up for better shots. 

With so much to see and experience in the central highlands, you may also wish to stay for a while and perhaps even spend some time camping. While you can’t go off-road, you can stay overnight in approved areas. That means you’ll want plenty of open space available inside your vehicle so you don’t feel cramped by your supplies.

Explore the F-Roads with a GO Iceland 4x4 Rental

To experience Iceland’s most remote, out-of-the-way adventures, you must first sit at the helm of a properly sized 4x4 vehicle. The F-Roads may take a little more time and a more capable vehicle, but they offer unique memories that will last for a lifetime. 

The best place to start is with a 4x4 rental from GO Iceland. We make it easy to book the perfect 4WD for your needs, offering:

• Simple, easy reservations
• Iceland-ready specifications
• Local support from a friendly team
• Clear and straightforward insurance coverage
• Transparent, fair prices with cost-effective rates

Pick your vehicle and book with GO Iceland today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iceland F-Road Rentals

How much do 4x4s cost to rent in Iceland?

You can expect daily rates to range between $50 and $200 USD per day. However, you’ll enjoy much lower prices in Iceland’s off-season, which ranges from the end of fall to the beginning of spring.

How much fuel will I need to drive F-Roads in Iceland?

4x4 vehicles tend to use more fuel than front-wheel drives, often around 25% to 40% more fuel than normal (around 10 to 15L per 100 km). So for a typical day trip covering 150 km to 250 km of F-Roads, plan for at least a full tank before entering the Highlands. Ideally, carry a 10 to 20L spare can as well.

Is my 4x4 protected by insurance in Iceland?

The best 4x4 rental companies, including GO Iceland, provide CDW insurance that comes as standard with your rental. However, this doesn’t necessarily cover everything you might experience on an F-Road. You may want to consider additional insurance covering:

• Gravel Protection (GP)
• Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP)
• Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW)

Learn more about the types of car insurance you may need in Iceland.