Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Manual transmission
- 4×4 / AWD drivetrain
- Compact SUV with higher ground clearance
- Fuel-efficient compared to larger 4×4 SUVs
- Seats up to 5 passengers
- Suitable for light luggage (best for small to medium bags)
Who It’s Suitable For
- Budget-conscious travellers who still want a real 4×4
- Couples or small groups planning a self-drive road trip
- Travellers visiting Iceland outside peak summer who need extra traction
- Drivers comfortable with manual gearboxes
- Those wanting a balance between affordability and capability
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Fully suitable for the Ring Road (Route 1)
- Ideal for gravel roads and rural areas
- Capable of accessing many F-roads (conditions dependent)
- Good option for the Westfjords, Eastfjords, and remote regions
- Suitable for Highlands access in summer, but not extreme river crossings
- Reliable choice for winter driving when road conditions are snowy or icy
Good to Know
- Not designed for deep river crossings or extreme Highland routes
- Weather and road conditions should always be checked before driving F-roads
- A practical, no-frills 4×4 that focuses on function rather than luxury
Looking for an affordable 4×4 rental in Iceland that’s both reliable and easy on your budget? The Dacia Duster 4×4 is one of the most popular choices for travellers who want comfort, space, and rugged capability without paying luxury prices.
This versatile SUV is fuel-efficient, spacious, and built for Iceland’s unique conditions — from driving the famous Ring Road and gravel tracks to tackling highland F-roads in summer or snowy trails in winter.
Why the Dacia Duster is the Best Cheap 4×4 Rental Car in Iceland
The Dacia Duster rental in Iceland is a budget-friendly 4×4 packed with everything you need for a smooth self-drive adventure. Its strong all-wheel drive system makes it one of the best cars for the Iceland Ring Road, easily handling gravel tracks, snowy conditions, and rough mountain terrain. With excellent fuel efficiency, you’ll save money on long journeys, while the heated cabin keeps you warm in unpredictable weather. Inside, you’ll also enjoy Bluetooth connectivity for playlists on the go, plus essential safety features like ABS, ESP, and airbags. Comfortable yet tough, the Duster is a cheap 4×4 rental in Iceland that delivers on both value and reliability.
Where can you take it? Almost everywhere. Circle the full Ring Road for a classic Iceland itinerary, venture onto the highlands’ F-roads during summer, or tackle winter roads with confidence thanks to its dependable 4×4 system. Affordable, reliable, and adventure-ready, the Dacia Duster is the ultimate choice for travellers looking for the best rental car in Iceland to explore the country’s dramatic landscapes on their own terms.
Driving in Iceland
Familiarise yourself with how to drive in Iceland. Get trusted tips from locals with a lot of experience.
4×4 Iceland Car Rental Guide
What Makes 4×4 the Most Recommended Car Type for Driving in Iceland
FAQ
- Is the Dacia Duster a suitable car for Iceland?
Yes, the Dacia Duster is a suitable rental car in Iceland. It’s a fuel-efficient 4×4 that handles the Ring Road, gravel tracks, and even summer F-roads. Making it one of the most popular and affordable 4×4 rental cars for exploring Iceland safely.
- Can I drive the Dacia Duster on F-roads?
Yes, you can drive the Dacia Duster on Iceland’s F-roads in the summer, as its 4×4 system is built for gravel and mountain tracks. However, it is not permitted to off-road drive.
- What months do I need a 4×4 in Iceland?
You need a 4×4 in Iceland mainly from October to April during the winter months. You also need a 4×4 during the summer if you plan on exploring the highland F-roads.
- What is the new kilometer tax / road tax fee in Iceland?
As of January 1st 2026 the Icelandic government is replacing part of the traditional fuel-based road tax with a usage-based system (“kílómetragjald”), calculated per kilometer driven and adjusted by vehicle weight. All vehicles using Icelandic roads, including rental cars, are required to contribute through this kilometer-based charge to support road maintenance and future infrastructure.
- What is the new kilometer tax / road tax fee in Iceland?
As of January 1st 2026 the Icelandic government is replacing part of the traditional fuel-based road tax with a usage-based system (“kílómetragjald”), calculated per kilometer driven and adjusted by vehicle weight. All vehicles using Icelandic roads, including rental cars, are required to contribute through this kilometer-based charge to support road maintenance and future infrastructure.
- Why is Thrifty Car Rental Iceland charging it?
The tax applies to all standard passenger cars and SUVs under 3.5 tonnes, as well as heavier vehicles in higher weight categories, with rates defined by law for each class. It applies to both Icelandic residents and visitors, including tourists renting a vehicle from Thrifty Iceland for a short stay or a longer road trip such as the Ring Road.
- Is it included in the daily rate?
The Road Tax appears as its own line item at these points:
- On your rental agreement at the check-in desk
- On your final invoice after drop-off
This clear separation helps show exactly what portion of your total cost is the government-mandated tax versus your actual rental service.
The charge applied to your rental agreement consists of two clear parts:
- Government Road Tax: The mandatory fee set by the Icelandic Parliament.
- Thrifty Service Fee: Covers the administrative cost of processing, reporting, and remitting these taxes to the government.
Rate (Per KM) Government Road Tax 6.95 ISK (Approx . 0.056 USD / 0.047 EUR) Thrifty Service Fee 1.40 ISK (+ VAT) (Approx . 0.011 USD / 0.0095 EUR) - Where do I pickup my rental car?
Our desk is located directly inside Keflavik International airport.
Just head to the Hertz rental desk in the arrivals hall, and you will be hitting the Icelandic roads in no time. Thrifty is serviced by Hertz Iceland, so everything is in one easy spot and to the highest standard.
We also have pickups available at Reykjavik Domestic Airport, Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, and Ísafjörður.
- What is your cancellation policy?
In case of a cancellation, the rental needs to be cancelled more than 3 days prior to rental pick up for a full refund.
If a rental is cancelled with less than 3 days notice or in case of no show the full rental price will be charged.
- 3 days or earlier – Full refund
- Less than 3 days – Non refundable
If you need to cancel your prepaid reservation please do so by sending an email to thrifty@thrifty.is stating your name and reservation number.
