Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Seats up to 5 passengers comfortably.
- Automatic transmission for easy driving.
- Hybrid powertrain (electric + petrol) for better fuel efficiency.
- 4×4 (all-wheel drive) with strong traction on many terrains.
- Space for about 4 large suitcases in the cargo area.
- Modern comfort and safety features (air conditioning, stability control, Bluetooth).
- Driver typically must be 22+ years old.
Who It’s Suitable For
- Families or small groups of up to five people.
- Travellers who want both off-pavement capability and hybrid efficiency.
- Those who prefer automatic driving and a premium SUV experience.
- Good choice for longer self-drive road trips and mixed-terrain travel.
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Suitable for the Ring Road (Route 1) and main paved highways.
- Handles gravel roads and rural routes confidently.
- Allowed on F-roads (Iceland’s highland mountain roads) when open in summer.
- Great for scenic drives like the Golden Circle, South Coast, and Westfjords.
- Good for winter driving on snow and ice thanks to 4×4 traction.
Good to Know
- Hybrid system can save fuel on long drives and in towns.
- Charging cable may not be included by default; check when booking.
- F-roads open only in summer and require careful planning before driving.
Rent one of the best full-size luxury SUVs, an AWD Land Rover Defender Plug-in Hybrid in Iceland, and stay in style and save on fuel. The Land Rover Defender is an incredible Iceland car rental choice for those who would like to drive on mountain roads with better fuel efficiency. It is also the only hybrid car allowed on Icelandic F-roads in our fleet.
The Land Rover Defender can accommodate five people comfortably and 4 pieces of luggage without seat configuration. If you are travelling in a group of four to five and want to rent a hybrid car with strong 4×4 capability, Land Rover Defender is your excellent car rental choice in Iceland.
Hybrid Land Rover Defender in Iceland: Luxury 4×4 with F-Road Access, Perfect for Families and Adventure
The Land Rover Defender PHEV rental in Iceland is one of the newest plug-in hybrids in our fleet, offering around 27 miles (EPA est.) of electric range before seamlessly switching to petrol power. With a shiftable automatic transmission, advanced technology, and modern safety features, it delivers both efficiency and confidence for year-round driving in Iceland’s ever-changing conditions. Please note: a charging cable is not included by default but can be added during the booking process.
This rugged 4×4 SUV is built for all types of Icelandic roads, making it one of the most versatile options for visitors. From paved highways and city streets in Reykjavík to gravel routes, snowy winter roads, and summer-accessible F-roads, the Land Rover Defender provides a seamless driving experience. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a powerful vehicle capable of handling Iceland’s diverse landscapes in every season.
With the Land Rover Defender, you can explore Iceland’s top attractions, including the Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Westfjords, North Iceland, and even the Highlands when F-roads are open in summer. To rent this vehicle, drivers must be at least 23 years old and hold a valid driver’s license for one year. Combining space, capability, and eco-friendly hybrid performance, the Defender PHEV is a premium choice for those seeking comfort and adventure on Iceland’s Ring Road and beyond.
⚠️ 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 Land Rover Defender on F-roads?
Yes, you can. In fact it is the only hybrid 4×4 in our fleet that is allowed on F-roads.
- 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.
