Best Rental Car for Iceland’s South Coast: 2WD or 4x4?

What is the Best Car for Iceland’s South Coast?

For most travellers visiting South Iceland in summer, an economy or standard 2WD rental car can be a practical and affordable choice.

If you’re travelling during winter, however, we recommend choosing a 4x4. Icelandic winter conditions can include snow, ice, strong winds, storms and rapidly changing weather, so a 4x4 can provide additional traction and make your journey more comfortable in challenging conditions.

Passenger and luggage capacity are just as important. A vehicle may have enough seats for your group but not enough boot space for all your luggage, so always check the specifications of the individual model before booking.

Quick Guide: Which Car Should You Choose for the South of Iceland?

These are general recommendations. Your ideal vehicle will also depend on weather conditions, luggage and the places you plan to visit.

Do You Need a 4x4 for Iceland’s South Coast?

Not necessarily.

If you’re visiting during summer and sticking to the main South Coast attractions, an economy or 2WD car can be suitable.

That means you don’t automatically need to pay for a larger 4x4 just because you’re travelling outside Reykjavík.

However, the season makes a significant difference.

Driving the South Coast of Iceland in Summer

Summer gives you the widest choice of rental cars.

For travellers staying along the main South Coast route, a small or medium-sized 2WD can be a cost-effective option.

When comparing vehicles, look at the actual passenger and luggage capacity rather than assuming that a particular vehicle category will automatically give you more space.

Summer is also the main season for campervan travel, as more campsites are open around the country. A campervan can be a convenient option if you want to combine your transport and accommodation while exploring the South Coast at your own pace.

Driving the South Coast of Iceland in Winter

Winter driving in Iceland is very different from driving during summer.

Conditions can include snow, ice, limited daylight, strong winds and storms. Weather can also change quickly, and severe conditions can sometimes lead to road closures and travel disruption.

For that reason, we recommend renting a 4x4 for a South Coast road trip during winter.

Depending on the model, a 4x4 may also offer additional ground clearance, which can be useful in snowy conditions.

Popular options in Lava Car Rental’s fleet include models such as the Dacia Duster and Hyundai Tucson 4x4.

Whatever vehicle you choose, always drive according to the current conditions and be prepared for Icelandic weather to change during your journey. You can also read our complete guide to winter driving in Iceland before your trip.

What About Spring and Autumn in South Iceland?

Spring and autumn conditions can vary considerably.

You may experience mild weather, but snow, ice and wintry conditions are also possible depending on when you travel.

A 2WD can be suitable in good conditions, while a 4x4 is the better choice when snow or ice is expected.

Check the weather and road conditions close to your trip before making your final decision.

Choose Your Rental Car for South Iceland Based on Passengers and Luggage

Choosing between a 2WD and 4x4 is only part of the decision.

You also need enough space for everyone travelling with you and their luggage.

Travelling as a Couple in Iceland

For one or two travellers, a smaller economy vehicle can be an excellent choice, particularly during summer.

Smaller cars are generally more affordable and can provide everything you need for a straightforward South Coast road trip.

Before booking, however, check the vehicle’s luggage capacity as well as the number of seats.

Travelling With Three to Five People in Iceland

If you’re travelling with friends or family, pay close attention to both passenger and luggage capacity.

A vehicle advertised for five passengers does not necessarily have enough boot space for five people plus several large suitcases.

Before booking, check:

• the maximum number of passengers;
• the number and size of suitcases the vehicle can accommodate;
• how much equipment you plan to bring; and
• whether everyone will be comfortable during longer drives.

Options in Lava Car Rental’s fleet include vehicles such as the Dacia Duster, Hyundai Tucson and Nissan X-Trail, each with different passenger and luggage capacities.

Travelling With Six or More People in Iceland

For larger groups, space becomes even more important.

Select your vehicle based on the number of passengers and the amount of luggage you are bringing rather than simply choosing the largest-looking model.

In some cases, renting two vehicles may be more practical and comfortable than trying to fit everyone and everything into one car.

You can compare passenger capacity, luggage space, transmission, fuel type and other vehicle features on our full car rental fleet page.

What Is Driving on Iceland’s South Coast Like?

South Iceland is one of the country’s most popular regions for self-drive trips.

One of the biggest advantages of renting your own car is flexibility. Instead of following a fixed tour schedule, you can decide where to stop, how long to stay and how quickly to travel.

That is particularly useful on the South Coast, where there are many waterfalls, beaches, villages, glaciers and viewpoints to discover along the way.

Most of the journey between Reykjavík, Vík and Jökulsárlón follows Route 1, Iceland’s Ring Road, with shorter turn-offs leading to many of the main attractions.

However, Icelandic driving conditions should always be taken seriously.

Weather can change quickly, particularly during winter. Strong winds, snow, ice and storms can affect your journey, so always allow more time than the fastest estimated driving time.

Can You Visit the Main South Coast Attractions of Iceland With a 2WD?

In normal summer conditions, a 2WD rental car is suitable for visiting many of the main South Coast attractions.

Some of the most popular stops include:

Reykjadalur Valley

Suppose you’d like to visit some of Iceland’s hot springs while in the country, don’t miss Reykjadalur Valley. The valley is filled with a hot river, hot pools and geothermal springs. You’ll have to hike about an hour from the parking lot to reach the springs, but the trek is well worth it.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is one of South Iceland’s most famous waterfalls.

At approximately 60 metres tall, it is an impressive stop and is easily incorporated into a South Coast road trip.

Skógafoss

Skógafoss is another spectacular waterfall along the South Coast.

At around 60 metres high and approximately 15 metres wide, it is one of Iceland’s most recognisable waterfalls and can easily be combined with Seljalandsfoss on the same journey.

The Westman Islands/Vestmannaeyjar

This archipelago off our South Coast is made up of more than a dozen islands, plus some sea stacks. The largest is Heimaey, which is inhabited, but the other islands are free from human development. Many bird watchers like to visit the islands to see the millions of Puffins, gulls and terns that nest here during the spring and summer months.

Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach

Close to Vík, Reynisfjara is known for its dramatic black sand, cliffs and striking rock formations.

It is one of South Iceland’s most popular natural attractions.

Vík í Mýrdal

Vík is a small village on Iceland’s South Coast and a convenient stop during a road trip through the region.

Its location makes it a useful base or stopover when travelling further east.

Sólheimajökull Glacier

Sólheimajökull is one of Iceland’s more accessible glaciers and can be visited as part of a South Coast journey.

If you are planning activities on the glacier itself, make sure you book an appropriate guided experience rather than treating it as an ordinary hike.

Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon

This steep canyon is nearly 100 metres deep. Hike along its ridges for beautiful views or even descend into the canyon itself, if you don’t mind getting your feet a little wet. Whatever you choose, you’re sure to love a visit to this natural wonder in the South of Iceland. 

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon sits beside Vatnajökull National Park and is one of the highlights of a longer South Coast road trip.

The lagoon is filled with icebergs and connects with the Atlantic Ocean beside the black-sand coastline.

It is a popular destination for travellers continuing beyond Vík towards southeast Iceland.

Map of Iceland's South Coast Best Attractions

A South Coast road trip can include waterfalls, black-sand beaches, glaciers, villages, geothermal areas and scenic viewpoints.

Use our South Coast map to plan the attractions you want to visit and build an itinerary that matches the amount of time you have available.

When Do You Really Need a 4x4 in South Iceland?

A 4x4 is not necessary for every South Coast trip, but there are situations where it becomes the better or required choice.

You’re Visiting in Winter

This is the clearest reason to choose a 4x4.

Snow, ice and changing conditions can make winter driving more demanding, and a 4x4 can provide additional stability and ground clearance.

You’re Travelling Beyond the South Coast

Your vehicle requirements may change if your itinerary continues into more remote parts of Iceland, such as the Westfjords or Eastfjords.

Consider your entire trip rather than choosing a vehicle based only on the South Coast portion of your journey.

You Plan to Drive on F-Roads

If your trip includes Iceland’s F-roads, you will need an appropriate 4x4 vehicle.

Not every 4x4 is necessarily suitable for every route, so always check which roads your rental vehicle is permitted to drive on before setting out.

If the Highlands are part of your itinerary, read our guide to Iceland’s F-roads before choosing your rental car.

Should You Rent a Campervan for the South Coast of Iceland?

A campervan can be a great option for travellers looking for extra flexibility.

Instead of moving between hotels each night, you can combine your transport and accommodation while staying at campsites along your journey.

Campervan travel is particularly popular during summer, when more campsites are open.

Before booking, consider the number of people travelling, sleeping arrangements, storage space and the amount of luggage or equipment you will be carrying.

It is also a good idea to research campsites before your trip, particularly during the busy summer season.

Manual or Automatic Rental Car in South Iceland?

Both manual and automatic rental cars are available in Iceland.

If you only drive automatic vehicles, book your preferred transmission in advance rather than assuming an automatic vehicle will be available when you arrive.

The most important thing is to choose a car you feel comfortable and confident driving.

Iceland’s changing weather and unfamiliar roads are not the ideal place to learn how to drive a manual car for the first time.

South Coast Driving Tips in Iceland

Whichever rental car you choose, a little preparation will make your South Iceland road trip easier.

Check the Vehicle’s Actual Capacity

Do not book a vehicle based only on the number of seats or its vehicle category.

Consider:

• number of passengers;
• number and size of suitcases;
• travel equipment;
• length of your road trip; and
• how much space everyone will need to stay comfortable.

A vehicle that looks larger from the outside does not necessarily have more usable luggage space.

Consider the Entire Itinerary

If your trip includes only Iceland’s South Coast, your needs may be very different from those of someone continuing into the Highlands, Westfjords or other remote areas.

Choose your vehicle based on the most demanding part of your itinerary.

Check Conditions Before Driving

Weather can change quickly in Iceland.

Check the latest weather and road conditions before setting off, particularly during winter and the shoulder seasons.

Be prepared to change your itinerary if conditions deteriorate.

Allow More Time Than the Fastest Driving Estimate

Distances in Iceland can be deceptive.

Even if the driving time looks short on a map, sightseeing, parking, walking, meals and changing road conditions can add a significant amount of time to your day.

Build some flexibility into your itinerary instead of planning every stop around the fastest possible journey time.

Book Early When Possible

Certain vehicle types, automatic cars, campervans and popular models may have more limited availability during busy travel periods.

Booking ahead gives you a better chance of finding a vehicle that matches your group, luggage and itinerary.

Find the Right Car for Your South Iceland Road Trip

For most travellers, choosing a rental car for South Iceland does not need to be complicated.

If you are travelling during summer and sticking to the main South Coast route, a 2WD can be perfectly suitable.

If you are travelling during winter, we recommend a 4x4 because of the possibility of snow, ice and changing weather conditions.

If your itinerary includes F-roads, make sure you choose a 4x4 that is permitted on the roads you plan to drive.

And whatever type of vehicle you choose, always check the individual passenger and luggage capacity rather than relying on the vehicle category alone.

At Lava Car Rental, you can choose from economy cars, SUVs, 4x4s and campervans for your Iceland road trip. Compare our available vehicles, choose the option that suits your journey and start planning your South Coast adventure.