Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Seats up to 5 passengers with room for 4 large suitcases.
- Automatic transmission.
- Plug-in hybrid combining electric and petrol power for better fuel efficiency.
- 4×4 (all-wheel drive) for improved traction on many road surfaces.
- Includes air conditioning, modern safety features and comfort tech.
- Driver must be 23+ years old.
Who It’s Suitable For
- Small families or groups of up to five.
- Travelers wanting a comfortable and efficient SUV for long drives.
- Anyone who prefers automatic driving and hybrid fuel savings.
- Good for both everyday touring and extended road trips.
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Perfect for the Ring Road (Route 1) and main paved roads.
- Great for scenic routes like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and East Fjords.
- Handles well-maintained gravel roads confidently.
- Not allowed on highland F-roads due to battery placement, but can use some interior gravel routes like Kjölur (Route 35) and Kaldidalur (Route 550) when open.
Good to Know
- The hybrid setup can help save fuel and lower emissions on longer drives.
- Always check road conditions and open/closed status of gravel or mountain routes before you set out.
Experience the perfect blend of efficiency, comfort, and versatility with the Kia Sorento PHEV, available at Hertz Iceland. This plug-in hybrid SUV is ideal for those seeking a reliable and eco-conscious vehicle to explore Iceland’s diverse landscapes, from city streets to scenic gravel roads.
A Comfortable Hybrid Car Perfect For The Iceland Ring Road
The Kia Sorento PHEV rental in Iceland is a spacious and eco-friendly SUV that seats up to 5 passengers with room for 4 large suitcases — ideal for families or small groups. As a plug-in hybrid, it delivers excellent fuel efficiency with low emissions while combining electric and petrol power for smooth driving. Equipped with advanced 4WD capability, the Sorento PHEV provides stability and confidence on Iceland’s main roads, handling snowy or icy conditions with ease. However, due to battery placement, it is not permitted on highland F-roads, though it is allowed on routes 35 and 550.
To rent the Kia Sorento PHEV, drivers must be at least 23 years old, hold a valid driver’s license for a minimum of one year, and present a credit card in the main renter’s name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if the license is not in Roman script. With its blend of comfort, luggage space, eco-friendly performance, and 4WD security, the Kia Sorento PHEV is a smart choice for exploring Iceland’s Ring Road, Golden Circle, and other top attractions.
⚠️ Important note: Charging cable is not included by default. If you’d like to use EV mode, don’t forget to add one during booking.
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 Kia Sorento on F-roads?
Unfortunately not. The Hybrid Kia Sorento is not a 4×4 and therefore, not allowed on F-roads. 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.
