Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Seats up to 5 passengers.
- Automatic transmission for easy driving.
- 2-wheel drive (2WD).
- Spacious luggage capacity (large trunk fits multiple large suitcases).
- Air conditioning and 5 doors.
- Includes modern features such as lane-keeping assist, cruise control, and rear-view camera for comfort and safety.
Who It’s Suitable For
- Families or small groups (up to five) wanting comfort and space.
- Travellers with moderate to large luggage who want extra cargo space.
- Budget-focused road trippers looking for value and fuel efficiency.
- Drivers who prefer an automatic transmission for relaxed driving on long distances.
- Ideal choice for scenic drives and everyday travel around Iceland’s main routes.
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Great for paved main roads, including the Ring Road (Route 1).
- Excellent choice for the Golden Circle route and other popular tourist loops.
- Well-suited for city driving in Reykjavík and access to airport and town locations.
- Works on well-maintained gravel roads where permitted.
- Not allowed on F-roads or high-center gravel/mountain tracks.
- Not recommended for harsh winter conditions or remote off-road areas without proper traction (4×4 recommended then).
Good to Know
- A strong balance of space, economy, and comfort for Iceland’s main touring routes.
- Choosing this wagon helps keep fuel costs lower and luggage fits more easily than many smaller cars.
- Always check road conditions and weather forecasts, especially outside summer.
The Hyundai i30 Wagon automatic rental in Iceland is a Thrifty favorite for travelers who want comfort, extra luggage space, and value. Seating 5 passengers with smooth handling and an automatic transmission, it’s perfect for city driving in Reykjavík and longer road trips. The latest model offers a massive 602-liter trunk — enough for 4 large suitcases plus backpacks — making it one of the best options in the 2WD category for families, couples, or small groups.
Spacious, Affordable, and Perfect for Summer Road Trips With The Family
This wagon is built for summer travel and Iceland’s paved roads, offering excellent fuel efficiency thanks to its 1.5L mild hybrid engine. Drivers also enjoy modern features like lane-keeping assist, cruise control, and a rear-view camera, making every journey safe and stress-free. It’s easy to park, budget-friendly, and provides plenty of legroom and comfort for scenic drives around the Golden Circle or the full Ring Road in warmer months.
One important reminder: the Hyundai i30 Wagon is a 2WD vehicle and is not allowed on Iceland’s F-roads. If your trip is planned between late September and May, or if you want to explore remote areas, a 4×4 rental is the safer choice. But for summer road trips on Iceland’s main tourist routes, the Hyundai i30 Wagon delivers excellent space, efficiency, and value.
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 Hyundai i30 Wagon a suitable car for Iceland?
Yes, the Hyundai i30 Wagon is great for exploring Iceland in all seasons, especially the summer. You will be able to access most popular tourist attractions and hidden gems, but not F-roads . See below regarding F-road access in this vehicle. Despite this vehicle being okay for the winter period we highly recommend a 4×4 for the extra safety.
- Can I drive the Hyundai i30 Wagon on F-roads?
No, unfortunately not. If you’re looking for a car that has 4×4 capabilities whilst also having large luggage space then we recommend the Kia Sorento Hybrid 4×4 or a Toyota Land Cruiser.
- 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.
