Summarise (click here)
Car Specs
- Seats up to 5 passengers.
- Automatic transmission.
- 2WD (front-wheel drive), plug-in hybrid for better fuel efficiency.
- Boot space fits about 3 large suitcases.
- Air conditioning and modern safety features.
Who It’s Suitable For
- Small families or groups up to five.
- Travellers who want a comfortable, fuel-efficient SUV.
- Drivers who prefer automatic and hybrid driving for main touring.
Where It Can Go in Iceland
- Ideal for Ring Road (Route 1) and main paved roads.
- Great for routes like Golden Circle, South Coast, and town driving.
- Handles gravel and light winter conditions on maintained roads.
- Not allowed on F-roads or highland mountain routes.
Good to Know
- Hybrid setup helps save on fuel and reduce emissions.
- Best suited to spring–autumn when road conditions are favorable for 2WD.
Discover the perfect combination of eco-friendly performance and urban convenience with the Renault Captur Plug-in Hybrid or similar. This compact SUV is an excellent choice for travelers exploring Iceland’s stunning landscapes, especially if you’re planning to stick to paved roads and the iconic Ring Road. With its plug-in hybrid engine, you’ll enjoy a fuel-efficient drive while reducing your environmental footprint—an ideal option for those who prioritize responsible travel.
Eco-Friendly, Spacious, and Best for Summer Travel
The Renault Captur Plug-in Hybrid rental in Iceland is an eco-friendly and fuel-efficient choice for travelers who want comfort and value. This compact SUV combines electric and petrol power, helping you save on fuel while reducing emissions during your trip. With automatic transmission, seating for up to 5 passengers, and space for 3 large suitcases, it’s a smart option for couples, families, or small groups exploring Iceland’s top attractions like Reykjavík, the Golden Circle, and the South Coast.
Best suited for Iceland’s main tourist routes, the Renault Captur Hybrid is a 2WD vehicle, making it ideal for paved roads such as the Ring Road and coastal drives. While it performs well in winter, the best time to rent this car is April to September, when road conditions are favorable for 2WD vehicles. It can handle gravel roads and light winter conditions, but it is not allowed on F-roads or in the Highlands. For most visitors, this SUV provides a balance of comfort, luggage space, and easy driving on Iceland’s most popular routes.
Equipped with modern technology and safety features, the Captur PHEV makes driving stress-free with smart assistance systems, smooth handling, and hybrid efficiency. Whether you’re picking up your rental at Keflavík Airport, heading into Reykjavík, or setting out on a summer Ring Road adventure, the Renault Captur Plug-in Hybrid is one of the best budget-friendly hybrid SUVs for sustainable and reliable travel in Iceland.
⚠️ 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 Renault Captur on F-roads?
Unfortunately not. The Hybrid Renault Captur 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.
