Rent a 4x4 Car in IcelandRead more
Why Rent a 4x4 Car for Your Iceland Trip?
Ready to explore Iceland the right way? A 4x4 is your best travel companion – whether you're chasing waterfalls in summer or crossing snow-covered roads in winter. Drive with confidence, comfort and total freedom – all year round.Read more
These vehicles offer the confidence and capability to handle gravel roads, snow, ice, and even highland F-roads, which are off-limits to standard vehicles.
A 4x4 rental in Iceland is ideal for travelers who want to go beyond the main roads and experience the country’s dramatic landscapes—like the Highlands, Þórsmörk, or Landmannalaugar. Built for Iceland’s unpredictable conditions, these vehicles provide stability and power for a smooth and safe journey in all weather.
If you’re looking for extra space, an SUV rental is a fantastic choice—perfect for families or groups needing more comfort while still being able to handle unpaved roads. While SUVs may not be as rugged as hardcore 4x4s, most of our models can still navigate Iceland’s gravel tracks and variable conditions with ease.
At Lava Car Rental, we offer a wide range of manual and automatic 4x4 vehicles, from budget-friendly options like the Dacia Duster to high-end models like the Toyota Land Cruiser. Each vehicle is winter-ready and road-trip approved, with seating for 2 to 7 passengers.
👉 According to Iceland’s Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin), 4x4 vehicles are required on F-roads and strongly recommended in winter.
Browse our 4x4 rental fleet below, choose the vehicle that fits your trip, and start your Iceland adventure the right way.
Our 4x4 Cars & SUV Models in Iceland
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Included
with our car rentals
- free shuttle service
- new & quality vehicles
- 24 hours availability
- insurances included
- fuel discount
- free cancellation
- studded tires in winter
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Included
with our car rentals
- free shuttle service
- new & quality vehicles
- 24 hours availability
- insurances included
- fuel discount
- free cancellation
- studded tires in winter
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WHY RENT A 4X4 CAR IN ICELAND WITH LAVA CAR RENTAL?
FLEXIBLE PICK-UP & DROP-OFF
Optional self-service pick-up and drop-off 24/7, day or night, for full trip flexibility.
ESSENTIAL INSURANCE INCLUDED
Drive worry-free with key coverage like TPL, CDW, SCDW, TP, and Gravel Protection.
FREE CANCELLATION
Cancel up to 48 hours before pick-up and receive a 100% refund—no hidden fees, no hassle.
AFFORDABLE, QUALITY CARS
Recent vehicles, maintained to the highest standards and budget-friendly for your trip.
Most travellers Choose a 4x4 in Iceland — Here's Why
- More than 70% of our travellers rent a 4x4 car in Iceland year-round for added confidence and flexibility.
- In winter, 80% of our customers book 4x4 vehicles to handle snow, ice, and unpredictable road conditions.
- Even in summer, 65% of our travellers choose a 4x4 to explore gravel roads, mountain areas, and F-roads.
The Best 4x4 Cars for Iceland’s Highlands in Summertime
Exploring Iceland’s Highlands? You’ll need a 4x4.
The Icelandic Highlands are a spectacular and remote region that rewards adventurous travelers with dramatic landscapes and off-the-beaten-path experiences. These areas are only accessible during summer via F-roads—gravel mountain roads that range from moderately bumpy to rugged and steep. Some well-known routes, like Kjölur (F35) and the northern road to Landmannalaugar (F208 North), are more accessible and do not involve river crossings, making them suitable for cautious drivers seeking a taste of the Highlands.
For these journeys, the Dacia Duster is an excellent choice. It’s a budget-friendly, compact 4x4 that offers impressive performance on gravel and uneven terrain, making it ideal for travelers who want capability without compromising on comfort or price. For those venturing deeper or tackling more demanding F-roads, the Toyota Land Cruiser delivers maximum power, durability, and ground clearance, providing a smoother ride even in Iceland’s toughest conditions.
Whichever route you choose, renting a capable 4x4 vehicle gives you the freedom and peace of mind to explore the Highlands safely and confidently.
What Makes a 4x4 Rental Ideal for Winter Roads in Iceland?
Visiting Iceland in winter? A 4x4 is the vehicle you need.
Winter in Iceland is truly magical—snow-covered landscapes, frozen waterfalls, and the unforgettable experience of chasing the northern lights. While the weather can be colder and the roads more slippery, travelling safely is absolutely possible with the right vehicle.
That’s why we recommend renting a 4x4 in winter in Iceland. With four-wheel drive (4WD), you’ll enjoy better control and traction on icy or snowy roads. These vehicles also have higher ground clearance, which makes it easier to drive through wintry conditions compared to a standard car.
To give you even more peace of mind, all our vehicles are equipped with studded winter tires from November to April, offering extra grip and stability—whatever the road throws your way.
Our team is always here to offer advice on weather and road conditions so you can feel confident behind the wheel and focus on enjoying the adventure.
What Our Customers Say About Renting a 4x4 in Iceland
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Terry Fowler
09-02-2025* * * * *The company is very well organised you get a quick pick up and drop off at the airport no waiting at all. We had a Dacia Duster what you see on line is what you get, no hidden extras all insurance was included and the price was by far the best that i could find in Iceland.
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Valentin Zamfirescu
30-09-2024* * * * *The car (2023 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Automatic) was in perfect condition. Everything worked without any errors and without me having a feeling of insecurity. Really nice car. The staff was very kind and perfectly punctual. Lava Car Rental get my full respect. I hope to come back to your wonderful country soon. Directly to Lava Car Rental!
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Leon Oudelaar
28-11-2024* * * * *Great services and friendly staff. Lava already was one of the better car rental services in Iceland and one of the few that would provide a 4x4 to people younger than 25 years. We had a new model Dacia Duster and had no troubles whatsoever.
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Pinalysa Cosma
15-05-2023* * * * *Found this company due to its good reviews, and it did not disappoint me.
The process of obtaining and returning the vehicle was simple and fast. Although the office itself is not at the airport, they provide an excellent transfer system to and from the airport. The shuttle picked us up from the airport and drove us to the airport when the car was returned. The office is just about 10 minutes. The staff was very helpful and friendly. The car we got was clean and in a very good state. When I return, I will book the car from them again. -
Helen Van de Kaa
24-01-2025* * * * *Best rental company from my experience so far. You do not need a credit to make the booking and can pay additional cost so you don’t need to pay any additional cost when you collect the car. We opted for the full premium option which was a great decision, because when we brought the car back it somehow how an accident happened while the car was parked. But we were all covered which was relief. The service pickup and drop was also straightforward too.
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Candice Miles
04-12-2024* * * * *Absolutely recommend! Having searched so many car rental companies and reading countless reviews, I finally decided on Lava Car Rentals and I’m so glad we did! The online check-in was easy and the transfer was there ready for our arrival (be sure to go to departures for pick up - not arrivals!!). The staff were extremely friendly and helpful and the car was perfect! 100% Recommend getting the full protection insurance for your own peace of mind due to the road conditions in Iceland and makes check out a breeze. Thank you all at Lava!
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Katherine Sirvio
10-06-2024* * * * *What a delight. Lava made it so simple, we booked in advance and just picked up the keys and were off. They told us about any tolls and how they worked, they shared apps and information to make our trip more enjoyable and they genuinely watched out for us - even contacting us when the volcano started to erupt. Drop off was a piece of cake, everyone was friendly and out going. Such a dramatic difference from global car rental agencies who seem to be out to get me at every chance the can. We will definitely be returning to Iceland and will definitely use Lava again! Thank you Lava!
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David Martin
28-02-2025* * * * *Very easy company to deal with. We chose the full insurance for our visit so no big credit card deposits or excess. Collection of car was quick and painless and great customer service. The car was immaculate, with studded tyres and very roomy. (Dacia Duster). We ended up arriving back late due to a road closure but the member of staff that served us was very understanding, gave us a free bar of chocolate and drove us straight away to the airport so that we made our check in on time. All in all a very good service from a well organised company. We will definitely use this service again when we come back.
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Amanda Hendricks
09-06-2024* * * * *We just got back from a two-week road trip around Iceland. Our rental vehicle from Lava Car was excellent! We were in a brand new Dacia Duster. It performed as expected. And we received great service from Lava. They even provided weather updates when a giant snow storm hit the country.
Learn More About Renting a 4x4 in Iceland
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Guide to Renting a 4x4 in Iceland
Find out when and where you need a 4x4 in Iceland, how to choose the right model for you and even how to drive in the challenging Icelandic Highlands.
Read more -
Driving in Iceland in Winter
These are the most important Iceland winter driving tips, including advice on Iceland's winter weather, road conditions & the best cars to rent in winter.
Read more -
Guide to Landmannalaugar in Iceland
Discover Landmannalaugar, Iceland’s top adventure destination! Find out the best routes, hiking tips, hot springs, and everything you need to plan your trip.
Read more
FAQ About 4x4 Cars & SUV in Iceland
What is a 4x4 car?
4x4 cars have a four-wheel drive (4WD) option and higher ground clearance, meaning they’re perfectly suited to gravel road travel and snowy conditions. Spacious and comfortable, 4x4 cars are ideal for families and friends who are travelling together. We offer a wide range of 4x4 hire cars, including the Dacia Duster, Toyota Rav4 and Toyota Land Cruiser. Discover more about 4x4 cars in Iceland in our complete guide.
What is an SUV?
An SUV, or Sport Utility Vehicle, combines traditional passenger car features with those of a larger, more rugged vehicle. SUVs typically have higher ground clearance, larger boot capacity and more interior space compared to regular cars. Designed for versatility, SUVs are capable of handling various driving conditions. Unlike 4x4 cars, SUVs don’t have four-wheel drive options and are prohibited on Iceland’s F-roads.
Why rent a 4x4 car or SUV in Iceland?
4x4 cars and SUVs are suitable for driving in Iceland during all seasons. Thanks to their height and ground clearance, they allow you to travel on gravel roads and snow with ease. 4x4 cars also give you the option to drive on Iceland’s Highland F-roads during the summer months.
Can I visit the Highlands in a 4x4 or SUV car?
With a 4x4 car, you can drive on F-roads and visit Iceland’s Highlands. The Highlands can only be accessed in a 4x4 car and during the summer season when F-roads are open.
SUVs do not have four-wheel drive capabilities and are forbidden for Highland driving by law. Please check car features carefully to ensure they have 4WD options.
Do I need a 4x4 or SUV car in Iceland?
It depends on your itinerary and travelling season. We recommend renting a 4x4 car or SUV for winter travel, as these vehicles are more suitable for adverse winter weather and road conditions than economy cars.
Although you don’t need a 4x4 car or SUV for driving along Iceland’s Ring Road in summertime, they can make your journey more comfortable. Please bear in mind that a 4x4 car is mandatory for driving on Iceland’s F-roads and to access the Highlands like Landmannalaugar.
How old must I be to rent a 4x4 or SUV with Lava Car Rental?
You must be aged 20 or older with a valid driving licence to rent a 4x4 car or SUV with Lava Car Rental.
Can I drive off-road if I have a 4x4 car or SUV in Iceland?
No, off-road driving in Iceland is forbidden for any vehicle. If you’re caught driving off-road in Iceland, you could receive a hefty fine and/or jail sentence.
Can I cross rivers if I have a 4x4 car in Iceland?
River crossing is not permitted, even in a 4x4 car, and is not insured by any car rental company. It is at your own risk.
What is included in the rental?
The rental booked on the Lava Car Rental website includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), Gravel Protection (GP), and Theft Protection (TP). The VAT is also included and you get discounts on fuel with the rental.
What kind of tires does the car have?
From November 1st to April 15th, all our vehicles are equipped with studded winter tires to ensure optimal safety and traction on icy and snowy roads. For the rest of the year, our cars come with standard tires suitable for regular driving conditions.
