Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Car for Iceland

1. Understanding Iceland’s Road and Terrain Types

• Primary Roads (Paved):

  • Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) encircles the country and is paved for most of its length. This road is manageable with a 2WD vehicle in summer, but in winter, snow and ice make a 4x4 more secure.

  • Coastal roads and city streets around Reykjavik are generally paved and easy to navigate with any vehicle.

• Gravel Roads:

  • Many secondary roads in Iceland are unpaved gravel roads. These are common outside Reykjavik and on less traveled routes around the country. Gravel can cause reduced traction, especially on turns, and can damage the car’s undercarriage if driven at high speeds.

  • A 4x4 vehicle is recommended on long gravel stretches, as it provides better stability and handling.

• F-Roads (Mountain Roads):

  • F-Roads lead to Iceland’s Highlands and are unpaved, rugged, narrow, and sometimes steep, often featuring river crossings, loose gravel, and boulders. These roads are only open in summer (typically June to September) and are inaccessible during winter.

  • By Icelandic law, only 4x4 vehicles with high clearance are allowed on F-roads due to the challenging conditions. Failing to follow this rule can result in heavy fines and damage costs not covered by insurance.

• Weather and Terrain Challenges:

  • Snow and Ice: Winter conditions make even paved roads risky. Look for vehicles with stability control, anti lock braking systems (ABS), and winter tires.

  • High Winds: Iceland is windy year-round, especially in coastal and highland areas. Smaller cars, camper vans, and vehicles without extra weight may struggle in high winds.

  • Rain and Flooding: Heavy rains can raise river levels quickly, making crossings unsafe. Muddy roads after rainfall also require vehicles with good traction.

2. Choosing the Right Vehicle Type for Iceland’s Conditions

• 2WD Sedans and Hatchbacks:

  • Best for: Basic routes, city driving, summer-only trips around Reykjavik or the Ring Road.

  • Limitations: Inaccessible on F-roads, less capable on gravel, and vulnerable to high winds and road damage.

  • Recommended Models: Toyota Corolla, VW Golf, or Hyundai i30.

• 4x4 SUVs (High Clearance):

  • Best for: All season travel, gravel roads, F-roads, rough terrain, and light to moderate river crossings.

  • Benefits: High clearance prevents undercarriage damage, and 4x4 capability improves traction on rough and wet roads.

  • Limitations: Large SUVs consume more fuel, and not all SUVs are fully equipped for deep river crossings.

  • Recommended Models: Toyota Land Cruiser, Mitsubishi Pajero, Ford Explorer.

• Pickup Trucks:

  • Best for: Rugged Highland routes, frequent river crossings, carrying gear, and transporting camping or outdoor equipment.

  • Benefits: Typically have the highest clearance and are built to withstand Iceland’s toughest roads, often equipped with water wading technology.

  • Limitations: Larger and less maneuverable in cities; limited interior space for passengers.

  • Recommended Models: Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Nissan Navara.

• Camper Vans and 4x4 Campers:

  • Best for: Extended stays and remote camping without hotel access.

  • Benefits: Dual functionality for accommodation and transportation, convenient for campers who prefer self-guided trips.

  • Limitations: Most camper vans struggle with rough terrain, and only certain 4x4 versions can handle F-roads.

  • Recommended Models: 4x4 Volkswagen Transporter, Mercedes Sprinter (with modifications), or Land Rover Defender with roof tents.

3. Essential Vehicle Features for Iceland’s Terrain

• 4-Wheel Drive (4x4):

  • Essential for F-roads, gravel roads, winter driving, and off road areas. A good 4x4 system provides traction on loose surfaces and helps control the vehicle on wet or icy roads.

• High Ground Clearance:

  • Recommended ground clearance is at least 8-10 inches to protect the car’s undercarriage from rocks, bumps, and riverbeds.

  • Higher ground clearance also allows for safer river crossings by keeping the engine and air intake above the waterline.

• Durable Tires:

  • All-Terrain Tires: Provide stability and grip on both gravel and wet, muddy roads. Ideal for multi-surface travel.

  • Winter Tires: Required by Icelandic law during the winter season for optimal traction on snow and ice.

• Skid Plates:

  • Skid plates protect the underside of the vehicle, particularly the engine, transmission, and fuel tank, from rough surfaces and sharp rocks.

• Snorkel:

  • A snorkel raises the air intake to prevent water from entering the engine during river crossings. While not mandatory, this feature is highly recommended for deep river crossings, especially in the Highlands.

4. River Crossing Safety and Considerations

• How to Assess River Depth and Current:

  • Walk the river crossing path before driving. Use a stick to check the depth and strength of the current.

  • If the water is above your knees, it’s generally unsafe for standard vehicles. Riverbeds can be uneven, with hidden holes and rocks, so cross only where the water is shallow and flows steadily.

  • Wait if recent rain or glacial melt has raised water levels, as rivers tend to be lower in the morning.

• Crossing Technique:

  • Cross in low gear at a steady, moderate speed (3-5 km/h) to avoid creating a bow wave that can flood the engine.

  • Avoid shifting gears or stopping mid crossing to maintain traction and reduce the risk of water entering the exhaust.

• Plan for Emergencies:

  • Carry an emergency kit that includes traction mats, a winch, and a tow rope if venturing into remote areas where river crossings are required.

  • Avoid crossings if there’s no backup vehicle in case of stalling or getting stuck.

5. Legal and Insurance Considerations for Driving in Iceland

• Insurance Coverage for Rough Terrain and River Crossings:

  • Gravel Protection: Essential, as gravel damage is one of the most common issues on Iceland’s unpaved roads.

  • Sand and Ash Protection: Recommended if traveling near volcanic regions. Sandstorms and ash can damage paint, windows, and mechanical parts.

  • Water Damage: Most car rental policies do not cover river crossing damage, so check your coverage carefully and consider a personal travel insurance policy for extra peace of mind.

• Driving Restrictions on F-Roads:

  • Only 4x4 vehicles are legally permitted on F-roads. Attempting to drive a 2WD on these roads can lead to fines and liability for any damages.

  • Some F-roads require specialized vehicles (e.g., super jeeps) for very deep river crossings or highly rugged paths.

6. Recommended Vehicles for Specific Icelandic Routes

• Ring Road (Route 1):

  • Suitable for: 2WD in summer; 4x4 recommended in winter.

  • Recommended Vehicles: Toyota RAV4, Subaru Outback, Kia Sportage (summer); 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser, Mitsubishi Outlander (winter).

• Golden Circle:

  • Suitable for: Most vehicles; 4x4 preferred in winter.

  • Recommended Vehicles: Any midsize SUV, such as a Subaru Forester or Honda CR-V.

• Westfjords and Snaefellsnes Peninsula:

  • Terrain: Mix of paved and gravel roads; 4x4 recommended for stability and comfort.

  • Recommended Vehicles: Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, or similar SUVs with all terrain tires.

• Highlands and F-Roads:

  • Terrain: Rugged, often requiring river crossings and high ground clearance.

  • Recommended Vehicles: Toyota Hilux, Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Defender, Ford Ranger.

7. Advanced Tips for Driving in Iceland

• Drive Slowly on Gravel Roads: Speeding on gravel increases the risk of skidding, punctures, and losing control.

• Be Aware of Weather Alerts: Iceland’s weather can turn suddenly, so check Iceland’s weather site and road alerts on Road.is every day before driving.

• Reduce Tire Pressure on Rough Terrain: Lowering tire pressure slightly can improve traction and ride comfort on very bumpy or muddy paths, but always re-inflate for standard road travel.

• Stay Hydrated and Bring Extra Fuel: Gas stations can be sparse, especially in remote regions and the Highlands. Carry extra water and snacks for longer routes.

Final Thoughts

Selecting the right vehicle is crucial for a safe, enjoyable journey through Iceland’s remarkable landscapes. Remember that Iceland’s rugged terrain demands respect and preparation; with the right car and gear, you’ll be able to explore the country safely. Always prioritize safety, check conditions regularly, and follow local driving regulations to ensure a memorable adventure in one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes.