Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Seats up to 5 passengers.
- Automatic transmission for easy driving.
- 4×4 (all-wheel drive) with good traction on varied surfaces.
- Space for about 3 large suitcases in the luggage area.
- Modern safety and comfort features like air conditioning.
Who It’s Suitable For
- Families or small groups up to five people.
- Travellers wanting a comfortable and capable SUV for varied terrain.
- Drivers who prefer automatic vehicles.
- Great choice for all seasons, including winter driving.
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Suitable for the Ring Road (Route 1) and main paved roads.
- Handles gravel roads and rural backroads well.
- Allowed on F-roads in summer (Iceland’s highland mountain roads) with proper caution.
- Good for scenic routes like the Golden Circle and South Coast.
Good to Know
- 4×4 traction provides confidence in changing weather and road conditions.
- F-roads are only open in summer and require careful planning; check road conditions before driving.
The automatic gear transmission Kia Sportage is an all-rounded 4×4 SUV suitable for all terrains in Iceland. Whether you plan for an F-roads adventure in summer or a more extended self-drive tour during the long winter in Iceland, our new KIA Sportage could always provide the best driving and riding to you and the passengers.
This four-wheel-drive vehicle is one of the most popular automobiles in Iceland among locals. The main reason behind this is the high stability the car can provide. Whether on the paved main roads, bumpy gravel roads or the challenging F-roads (Icelandic mountain roads), the KIA Sportage can constantly offer a seamless and comfortable experience.
A 4×4 Perfect For All Seasons In Iceland
Whether you’re visiting in winter for snowy landscapes or in summer for a Ring Road adventure, the automatic Kia Sportage offers strong performance and peace of mind. With 4WD capability, it handles Iceland’s changing road conditions with ease and is even allowed on F-roads, giving you access to the Highlands as well as the Golden Circle, South Coast, and beyond.
To rent the Kia Sportage in Iceland, drivers must be at least 23 years old, hold a valid license for one year, and present a credit card in the renter’s name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required if the license is not in Roman script. Spacious, versatile, and built for Icelandic terrain, the Kia Sportage 4WD is a top option for travelers who want comfort, safety, and the freedom to explore both paved roads and rugged highland routes.
Why Book with Thrifty Car Rental Iceland?
Thrifty Car Rental Iceland offers reliable vehicles at competitive pricing, making it one of the cheapest car rental options in Iceland without compromising on quality. With practical SUVs and 4×4 rentals suited for Iceland’s changing road conditions, you can explore the country comfortably whether you are driving the Ring Road or heading toward more remote landscapes. Combined with trusted local service and simple booking, Thrifty helps you experience Iceland by car while keeping your travel budget under control.
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 Sportage a reliable 4×4 for Iceland?
Yes, the Kia Sportage is a reliable rental car in Iceland. This versatile 4×4 SUV is fuel-efficient, comfortable, and built for all seasons. It handles the Ring Road, gravel roads, and even F-roads with ease, making it a popular choice for travelers who want safety, capability, and great value while exploring Iceland.
- Can I drive the Kia Sportage on F-roads?
Yes, you can drive the Dacia Duster 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?
Just head to the Car Rental Shuttle Bus directly outside the terminal. This shuttle takes you to the car rental area just outside of Keflavik Airport. Here you will find Thrifty Car Rental, which is located in the same building as Hertz Car Rental, Dollar Car Rental, and Firefly Car Rental. Thrifty is backed by Hertz Car Rental, which has over 55 years of local experience in Iceland having first opened here in 1971. Bringing decades of experience.
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.
