Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Automatic transmission for easy driving and comfort.
- True 4×4 / all-wheel drive with good traction on a variety of surfaces.
- Seats up to 5 adults comfortably.
- Space for 4 large suitcases (luggage room is flexible with seats folded).
- Air conditioning and 5 doors.
- Standard safety and comfort features typically include cruise control, ABS, Bluetooth, power windows/steering, and airbags.
- Renter typically must be 23+ years old.
Who It’s Suitable For
- Families, couples, or small groups who want space and capability.
- Travelers planning a mix of paved roads, gravel, and rugged landscapes.
- People who want the confidence of a 4×4 with automatic driving ease.
- Those carrying moderate luggage or outdoor gear for longer road trips.
- Ideal for drivers who want a reliable, all-season SUV (summer and winter).
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Perfect for Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) and daily touring around the island.
- F-roads (Highland mountain roads) in summer when open (typically June–September).
- Gravel roads in regions like the Westfjords and Eastfjords.
- Suitable for winter driving on snow, ice, and slippery conditions thanks to 4×4 traction.
- Great for popular routes like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and scenic backroads.
Good to Know
- High ground clearance and 4×4 allow access to remote valleys and rougher terrain when roads are open.
- On F-roads, river crossings come with risk and no insurance covers underbody damage from water/rocks, so plan carefully.
- Excellent balance of space, comfort, and off-pavement capability without stepping up to a full rugged 4×4 like Land Cruisers.
The Kia Sorento 4×4 — or a similar SUV — is your all-weather, go-anywhere Iceland road trip hero. This rugged automatic SUV has room for 5 adults, up to 3 large suitcases, and zero compromise. With 4WD, modern safety tech, and the ground clearance to match, it’s ready for the Ring Road and the rough stuff — yes, including those legendary F-roads.
A 4×4 Perfect For Family Trips On Icelandic F-Roads
The Kia Sorento rental in Iceland is a versatile 4×4 SUV built for all seasons. With true 4WD power, it’s F-road approved for summer access to Iceland’s Highlands and delivers excellent traction on gravel, snow, and icy winter roads. This SUV comfortably seats 5 adults and offers flexible luggage space — 3 large suitcases with seats up, or up to 5 suitcases and outdoor gear when folded down. Its automatic transmission and smooth handling make it easy to drive, even for first-timers navigating Reykjavík or the Ring Road.
Perfect for both summer and winter adventures, the Kia Sorento is ideal for families, couples with gear, or small groups who want a reliable 4×4. Equipped with modern features like cruise control, heated seats, lane-keeping assist, ISOFIX for child seats, and parking sensors, it blends safety with comfort. From the Golden Circle and South Coast to gravel backroads and accessible F-roads, the Kia Sorento is a budget-smart choice for travelers who want the capability of a rugged SUV without the premium price tag.
⚠️ Heads-up: Iceland’s wild roads come with wild rules. No insurance covers underbody damage or river crossing mishaps — so keep your route smart and safe.
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 Kia Sorento a reliable 4×4 for Iceland?
The Kia Sorento is generally considered a reliable rental choice in Iceland, especially for those wanting a capable 4×4 SUV. It offers strong all-wheel/4WD performance, which is crucial for driving on gravel roads, snowy terrain, and even some summer-accessible F-roads.
- Can I drive the Kia Sorento on F-roads?
Yes, you can drive the Kia Sorento on Iceland’s F-roads in summer, as its 4×4 system is built for gravel and mountain tracks — just avoid off-road driving and check conditions first.
- 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.
