Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Manual transmission
- 2WD drivetrain
- Seats up to 9 people (8 passengers + driver)
- Large interior with space for luggage (best with limited large suitcases)
- High roof and sliding side door for easy access
- Designed for comfort on long drives rather than off-road use
Who It’s Suitable For
- Large families or groups travelling together
- Friends on a group road trip who want to stay in one vehicle
- Travellers with light to moderate luggage per person
- Drivers confident handling a larger passenger van
- Budget-focused groups avoiding the cost of renting multiple cars
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Suitable for the Ring Road (Route 1)
- Ideal for paved roads and main tourist routes
- Good option for the Golden Circle and South Coast
- Suitable for city driving and airport transfers
- Not allowed on F-roads or Highland routes
- Not recommended for rough gravel roads or winter mountain driving
Good to Know
- 2WD means limited traction on snow, ice, or steep gravel roads
- Best used in summer or shoulder seasons on maintained roads
- A practical people-mover focused on space and value rather than versatility
The Ford Transit 9-seater is the perfect choice for budget-friendly group travel in Iceland. It seats 8 passengers plus 1 driver and still fits up to 4 large suitcases without folding any seats. Despite its size, this van is easy to handle, making it a great option even for drivers new to minivans.
Why the Ford Transit 9-Seater is ideal for group travel in Iceland
Driving the Ford Transit 9-seater in Iceland is easier than you might think — it handles more like a large car than a bus and sits high for great views of Iceland’s landscapes. It’s perfect for summer road trips and works well on well-maintained winter roads, but it’s not allowed on F-roads or off-road tracks. With plenty of space for passengers and luggage, it’s a reliable choice for groups exploring the Golden Circle, South Coast, or even the full Ring Road.
In winter, the Transit is safe for main routes if you drive slowly on icy mornings and stay alert for Iceland’s famous strong side winds, especially in the south. Fuel up whenever possible since gas stations in rural areas are scarce, and always check Vedur.is and Road.is for real-time weather and road conditions.
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
- How much luggage can fit inside the Ford Transit with 9-passengers?
If the Ford Transit is at full passenger capacity (9) then you can fit 4 large suitcases in the back without folding down any seats. If not at full capacity then of course its possible to fold down chairs in order to fit more luggage. Therefore, the Ford Transit is also great for small groups of photographers or hikers that may have a lot of gear with them.
- Can I drive the 9-seater Ford Transit on F-roads?
Unfortunately not, as the Ford transit is not a 4×4. However, we do have a VW Caravelle 9-seater minivan on our fleet that is a 4×4 and allowed on F-roads.
- 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.
