Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Seats up to 5 passengers.
- Automatic transmission.
- 2WD (front-wheel drive).
- Space for about 3 large suitcases in the boot.
- Air conditioning and modern safety features.
Who It’s Suitable For
- Small families or groups up to five.
- Travellers who want a comfortable and practical compact SUV.
- Drivers who prefer automatic cars for long drives.
- Great choice for everyday touring and main sightseeing routes.
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Excellent on the Ring Road (Route 1) and main paved roads.
- Good for the Golden Circle, South Coast, Reykjavík and town driving.
- Handles standard gravel roads but not allowed on F-roads (highland mountain roads).
Good to Know
- A budget-friendly small SUV that balances space, comfort and fuel efficiency.
- If you plan to explore rough highland or F-roads, a 4×4 vehicle is required.
The automatic gear transmission Mazda CX-30 offers a poised handling and refined ride quality to drivers and passengers. If you plan to travel around Iceland via the route 1 ring road, especially during summertime with one or two other friends and family members, the CX-30 would be an ideal cheaper small SUV Iceland rental car for your trip.
A Small SUV is a Great Choice For Small Groups and Families
The Mazda CX-30 rental in Iceland is a reliable and affordable choice for travelers who want comfort, safety, and performance in a compact SUV. Powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower and a six-speed automatic transmission, it delivers smooth handling and responsive driving across Iceland’s main routes. With a boot capacity of 20.2 cubic feet, the CX-30 fits two large suitcases without compromising rear-seat legroom, making it practical for couples or small groups. Advanced safety features ensure a secure driving experience, whether you’re exploring Reykjavík or the Ring Road — but please note, the Mazda CX-30 is not allowed on F-roads.
To rent the Mazda CX-30 in Iceland, drivers must be at least 20 years old, hold a valid driver’s 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. Combining space, efficiency, and affordability, the Mazda CX-30 is one of the best options for those looking for a modern, well-equipped rental car to explore Iceland’s main attractions comfortably.
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
- What are the benefits of renting a small SUV?
Renting a small SUV gives you more space and comfort than a compact car while still being easy to drive and park. They’re fuel-efficient, versatile, and great for both city trips and longer road adventures.
- Can I drive the Mazda CX-30 on F-roads?
Unfortunately not. The Mazda CX-30 is not a 4×4 and therefore, not allowed on F-roads. If you’re looking for a smaller 4×4 car that is allowed on F-roads then consider the Kia Sportage.
- 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.
