Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Seats up to 5 passengers comfortably.
- Automatic transmission for easy driving.
- 4×4 (all-wheel drive) for better traction and stability in varied conditions.
- Plug-in hybrid system combining electric and petrol power for fuel efficiency.
- Spacious cargo capacity (~616 L boot fits ~3–4 large suitcases plus gear).
- Standard comfort and safety features like cruise control, traction control, Bluetooth, airbags.
- Typical driver age requirement 23+ years.
Who It’s Suitable For
- Small families or groups of up to five people.
- Travelers who want a blend of efficiency and comfort on long drives.
- Drivers who prefer automatic gearboxes and hybrid fuel savings.
- Those planning to explore Iceland’s main tourist routes year-round.
- People who want extra traction and confidence in rain, light gravel, or winter conditions.
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Great choice for the Ring Road (Route 1) and other main paved roads.
- Well-suited for major routes like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and East Fjords.
- Handles well-maintained gravel roads confidently.
- Not allowed on highland F-roads (battery protection concerns and rental rules).
- Reliable for everyday driving, airport transfers, and scenic touring.
Good to Know
- Plug-in hybrid tech lets you drive short distances on electric power in town for fuel savings, then switch to petrol for longer stretches.
- AWD increases traction on slippery surfaces like wet roads or light snow, but it’s not a rugged off-roader like some larger SUVs.
- Charging cable is often not included by default when renting; you can add one for EV charging stops.
Meet the Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid 4WD — or a similar model from our eco-friendly fleet. This mid-size SUV blends plug-in electric tech with all-wheel drive confidence, perfect for Iceland’s unpredictable roads and weather. Whether you’re zipping through Reykjavík or looping the Ring Road, you’ll drive smarter without overspending.
A Modern and Fuel-Efficient Way Of Travelling Iceland
The Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid rental in Iceland is a smart choice for travelers who want efficiency, comfort, and the security of all-wheel drive. This hybrid SUV seats 5 adults and offers a spacious 616L boot that fits 3–4 large suitcases plus outdoor gear. With plug-in hybrid technology, you can enjoy fuel savings by driving electric in town and switching to gas for longer journeys — making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Modern features like Apple CarPlay™, built-in navigation, heated seats, and a rear-view camera add convenience for every trip.
Built for Iceland’s diverse conditions, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid handles paved roads, gravel routes, and the full Ring Road with ease. Its 4WD system provides extra grip on icy mornings, rainy stretches, or uneven terrain, making it reliable year-round. While this SUV is allowed on routes like Road 35 and 550, it is not permitted on highland F-roads. For most travelers exploring Iceland’s main routes, it’s the perfect blend of space, efficiency, and driving confidence.
⚠️ Note: Charging cable is not included by default. You can add one during booking if you plan to use EV mode at charging stations.
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
- Where can I charge a Hybrid car in Iceland?
You can charge a hybrid car in Iceland at a wide network of charging stations located in Reykjavík, major towns, and along popular routes like the Golden Circle and Ring Road. Most fuel stations, supermarkets, and hotels now provide charging points, and dedicated providers such as ON, Ísorka, and N1 operate fast and regular chargers across the country. Apps and maps from these networks make it easy to plan stops, and with Iceland’s growing focus on sustainable travel, finding a spot to top up your hybrid battery while exploring is straightforward and convenient.
- Can I drive the Hybrid Hyundai Tucson on F-roads?
Unfortunately not. Whilst the Hybrid Hyundai Tucson is a 4×4, the battery placement (on the bottom of the car) means it can’t go on F-roads due to the high risk of damage to the battery. If you’re looking for a 4×4 Hybrid car that is allowed on F-roads then consider the New Hybrid Land Rover Defender.
- 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.
