Do You Actually Need A 4x4 in Iceland?

Planning a road trip through Iceland’s dramatic landscapes? You might have a vision of yourself cruising past glaciers and volcanoes, without a care in the world. And with the right vehicle, that dream can become reality. A 4-wheel-drive vehicle opens up access to F-Roads, the remote Highlands, and hidden gems far off the Ring Road. It also offers extra stability in Iceland’s famously unpredictable weather.

But do you really need a 4x4 in Iceland? In this guide, we’ve answered all your questions about 4-wheel drive (4WD) rentals, including when they’re required, what to consider, and how to choose the right one for your adventure. 

Why Rent a 4x4 in Iceland?

A vehicle with 4WD ultimately allows more stability on tougher terrain, which is especially beneficial when driving on rough gravel roads or mountainous tracks like the F-Roads. The main reason to choose to hire a 4x4 in Iceland is so that you can explore Iceland’s Highlands via these F-Roads, where 4-wheel drives are mandatory by law.

It’s important to note that off-road driving (outside of marked roads and tracks) is illegal in Iceland to protect the fragile landscape, so 4x4s are intended for use only on designated roads.

Additionally, the added traction is invaluable in poor weather conditions, with snow and ice on the road’s surface. 

If you’re planning a longer road trip around Iceland, a larger 4x4 vehicle offers a higher degree of comfort and more space for luggage, hiking gear, or camping equipment, making it an ideal choice for outdoor adventures and extended travel.

Is a 4x4 Essential for Driving in Iceland?

If you are traveling during the winter months, you might assume that hiring a 4x4 is essential to handle the severe weather Iceland can throw at you. However, whether you need one depends largely on your travel plans. 

If you only plan to spend a few days on the Golden Circle, for example, a 4x4 is generally not necessary. This is a well-maintained road with good visibility, perfectly safe as long as you drive carefully and follow local laws. Plus, all our rental cars are fitted with studded tires in winter, ensuring solid grip even on icy roads.

However, if you plan to embark on a longer road trip around the Ring Road between December and February, then a 4x4 might be a good choice. Snow, ice, and rapidly changing weather can make driving on more remote or rural roads more challenging. For ultimate peace of mind and safety on these trickier roads, hiring a vehicle with 4WD is a smart choice.

During the summer months, Iceland’s famous F-Roads, mountainous gravel roads that lead into the Highlands, open up! These roads are rough, often narrow, and sometimes feature river crossings, making a 4-wheel drive mandatory for anyone planning to explore these remote areas. Without a 4x4, access to these unique destinations isn’t possible.

It’s also worth noting that F-Roads are closed during the winter months due to dangerous conditions, so the Icelandic Highlands are only accessible in summer.

Find out more about driving in Iceland in winter.

Choosing the Right 4x4 for Your Iceland Trip

Ultimately, the best 4x4 vehicle for you will depend on your specific requirements during your time in Iceland. Fuel efficiency, size, ground clearance, and more can all impact your choice. Below are our recommendations for certain trip types within our 4x4 rental offering.

• For F-Road Driving: Jeep Compass 4xe
• Sightseeing & Gravel Roads: Dacia Duster 4x4, Suzuki Vitara
• City Driving: No 4x4 Required

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a 4x4 in Iceland?

There is no simple answer when it comes to 4x4 rental costs in Iceland. Pricing varies depending on the season, vehicle model, length of rental, and any optional extras you choose. 

As a general guide, daily rates typically range from $50 to $200 a day. Expect lower prices in the off-season (late fall to early spring), and higher rates during summer and peak travel periods.

To give you the ultimate peace of mind, our rental prices at GO Iceland include Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), which covers third-party and personal accident insurance with a self-risk of 350,000 ISK (approx $2,870). Find out more about our insurance packages.

What is the Fuel Consumption Like for 4x4s?

Fuel consumption is an important consideration when renting a 4x4 in Iceland. It’s well-known that these larger, more powerful vehicles are thirstier machines than your average car, which means they tend to use more fuel! Again, the exact figures will be impacted by the model, weather, and manner of your driving, i.e., more challenging conditions will increase fuel usage. 

Looking at figures on average, more compact 4WD vehicles consume around 7-10 liters per 100 km, while larger models might consume up to 15 liters per 100 km

4x4 Car Rentals in Iceland FAQs

Below, we’ve answered some of the most common questions travelers have about 4WD rentals, F-Road rules, insurance, and more, so you can hit the road with confidence.

Are 4x4s required on F-Roads in Iceland?

Yes, 4WD vehicles are legally required to drive on F-Roads - mountainous, gravel roads that lead into the Highlands of Iceland. Attempting to drive these roads in a 2WD vehicle is extremely unsafe and illegal. 

Can I drive off-road in a 4x4 in Iceland?

No, off-road driving in Iceland is illegal, regardless of the vehicle you are driving. This law is strictly enforced in Iceland to protect the fragile environment. Even in a 4x4, you must stick to marked roads and tracks.

Do I need special insurance when driving a 4WD in Iceland?

While CDW is included as standard with GO Iceland, it is highly recommended to add gravel protection and sand and ash protection, especially if you’re heading into rural or Highland areas.  

Can I rent an automatic 4x4 in Iceland?

Yes, many of our 4x4 rentals are available with automatic transmission, including the Nissan Qashqai and Mazda CX-60. These vehicles are ideal for those who are less confident with manual driving.

Do I Really Need a 4x4 in Iceland?

If you’re keen to explore the most remote parts of Iceland or want to enjoy a long road trip during winter, then a car with more stability and power can be the best way to go. It can be more comfortable to spend long drives in a more spacious car anyway, so consider your comfort above all! Find out more about driving around Iceland.

Still not sure? Our blog on which type of car to rent in Iceland might help you further!