Welcome to your ultimate local guide to the best rental cars for an Iceland spring road trip
Spring is arguably one of the most magical and rewarding times to explore Iceland by car. As the winter’s grip loosens, the days stretch dramatically longer, giving you ample daylight for sightseeing.
Main roads start to clear of significant snow and ice. Crucially, the island’s most popular routes and sights are noticeably less crowded than during the peak summer season.
Driving conditions in spring are much easier than in the middle of winter. However, preparing for the rapidly changing weather, typical of the Icelandic season, is key to a successful journey.
Major roads are generally clear of snow and ice, and popular sights are much less crowded than in summer.
The good news is that for most trips, you don't need the largest or most expensive vehicle for a safe and memorable journey.
Blue Car Rental is a local company with extensive experience in the demands of every Icelandic season. We have learned a lot from this! It helps us know which cars are the best for driving in the spring in Iceland. They are comfy, safe, reliable, and a good price.
Below is our comprehensive, local expert guide to selecting the best rental cars for a spring road trip in Iceland. We offer the same practical advice we'd give friends and family planning a spring adventure.
What Spring Driving Is Really Like in Iceland
Icelandic spring typically spans from late March through May. Conditions can change dramatically in a single day, despite rapid improvement. This time of year brings rapidly increasing hours of daylight, which makes driving in Iceland more relaxed and flexible for sightseeing. It is also a popular period for trips to Iceland focused on road trips, photography, and nature stops along the Ring Road and the South Coast.
Here is what you can in a realistic way expect on the road:
- Most major routes, including Route 1 (the famous Ring Road), are generally clear of persistent snow, especially by mid-to-late spring.
- Even in early spring (March or early April), it can still feel like winter, especially up north and on tall mountains. This includes occasional snow, icy roads, and possible temporary closures.
- Wet and Variable Surfaces: Snowmelt combined with spring rain means roads are often wet. Good tire grip and reliable handling are essential for these slick conditions.
- Powerful Winds: Iceland is notorious for strong winds, especially on open stretches of the coast and high plateaus. A car with good weight and stability is a major asset.
The takeaway? While a heavy winter setup is usually unnecessary, good stability, clearance, and handling remain essential for spring's varied conditions. This is especially true when dealing with wet roads in Iceland, occasional gravel road sections, and short-term road closures caused by weather or snowmelt.
Car Recommendations for a Spring Road Trip in Iceland
We put our best ideas into groups. This helps you quickly pick the right car for your trip and what you want to do!
Small Car Option: Best for City Driving and Short Spring Trips
A city car, like a Toyota Yaris, is good on gas and doesn't cost much. It works well for travelers focused on city driving, short day trips, and paved routes when visiting Iceland in spring. It's a smart choice for springtime trips, especially if you stay close to the city (like Reykjavík) or on roads that are smooth and dry.
The Toyota Yaris stands out as our recommended small car for spring driving.
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Why It Works |
Best For |
Things to Keep in Mind |
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City Efficiency: Much more easy to navigate and park in urban environments. |
Reykjavík City & Suburbs: Ideal for exploring the capital area. |
Limited Ground Clearance: Cannot handle rough gravel roads or deep potholes. |
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Fuel Economy: Excellent mileage for short to medium-distance day trips. |
Golden Circle: Perfect for short, paved excursions like the Golden Circle. |
Weather Sensitivity: Not recommended for unexpected snowfall or very high winds. |
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Reliability: Proven Japanese engineering for smooth performance on dry, paved roads. |
Budget-Conscious: The most affordable option for maximizing travel savings. |
Luggage Space: Limited storage for more than two people with significant luggage. |
Midsize SUVs: The Best All‑Round Choice for Spring
For most spring trips in Iceland, like driving the Ring Road or exploring the South Coast, a midsize SUV is the best choice. It's safe, flexible, and comfortable. They effortlessly handle mixed conditions without being cumbersome or incurring the highest fuel/rental costs.
Suzuki Vitara (Manual & Automatic)
The Suzuki Vitara is often the first vehicle we recommend to travelers targeting the spring shoulder season.
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Key Benefits |
Ideal Spring Itinerary |
Feature Highlights |
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Flexibility: Available in both manual and popular automatic transmission options. |
The Full Ring Road: Reliable and comfortable for the multi-day circuit. |
Higher driving position significantly enhances visibility in rain and sun glare. |
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Comfort: Excellent suspension and cabin features for long days behind the wheel. |
South Coast & Snæfellsnes: Confidently tackles the variable roads in these popular regions. |
Superior handling on wet asphalt and robust design to withstand strong Icelandic crosswinds. |
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Confidence: Gives travelers peace of mind for unexpected gravel or brief snow, without needing a full 4x4. |
First-Time Visitors: An easy-to-drive, versatile vehicle for those new to Icelandic driving. |
Dacia Duster (Used Model)
The Dacia Duster Used model is a favorite among savvy travelers, offering serious capability at an exceptionally competitive price point.
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Why It Works |
Best For |
Local Insight |
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Proven Capability: The Duster has a reputation for rugged, dependable performance on challenging Icelandic terrain. |
Budget-Conscious Adventurers: Maximize your budget without sacrificing safety or stability. |
This model is extremely popular among locals for its rugged utility and low maintenance. |
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Balance: Offers an excellent compromise between overall vehicle size, ground clearance, and driver control. |
Mixed Itineraries: Perfect for spring trips that are likely to include sections of main gravel roads. |
Toyota RAV4 (Used Model)
The Used Toyota RAV4 model is comfortable and dependable, making it ideal for longer spring trips.
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Traveler Appeal |
Ideal Scenarios |
Performance Advantage |
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Ride Quality: Smooth, refined ride that minimizes fatigue during long-distance driving. |
Prioritize comfort for extended hours on the road in longer Ring Road road trips. |
Very stable and predictable handling, which is a major comfort factor in strong Icelandic wind conditions. |
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Spaciousness: Generous interior room and substantial luggage capacity for extended stays. |
Couples or Small Families: Easily accommodates multiple bags and passenger space. |
Large SUVs: Best for Early Spring and Remote Travel
Choose a large SUV 4x4 like the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon if you are traveling in early spring (March/early April), planning remote routes, visiting black sand beaches such as Diamond Beach, driving on rough or uneven gravel road sections, or need the most comfort and space for long drives.
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Travelers who want complete freedom and the best possible off-road experience (while staying on legal Icelandic roads) need the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.
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Why It Stands Out |
Best For |
Unique Advantages |
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Extreme Clearance: High ground clearance and superior 4x4 traction (essential for early spring snow/slush). |
Early Spring Travel: Provides the capability to handle late-season winter conditions. |
Designed to easily tackle the more difficult sections of uneven gravel and rugged tracks (non-F-roads, where allowed). |
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Traction: Built-in systems handle gravel, mud, and uneven surfaces with unmatched ease and confidence. |
Exploring Less-Visited Areas: Access remote locations and sights that small cars cannot reach. |
The classic choice for travelers seeking maximum control and a true "adventure" vehicle aesthetic. |
Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Land Rover Discovery Sport offers a sophisticated blend of premium comfort and genuine off-road capability.
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Key Recommendation Factors |
Ideal Trips |
Comfort & Stability |
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Premium Interior: High-end cabin materials and comfortable seating for superior long-distance driving. |
Travelers Who Value Luxury: A perfect blend of performance and upscale amenities. |
Strong, composed performance and incredible stability on all mixed road surfaces, including slick spring terrain. |
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Strong Performance: Reliable power and handling for confidently managing rapidly changing Icelandic conditions. |
Long Multi-Day Travel plans: Reduces driver and passenger fatigue on extensive journeys. |
A Simple Decision Guide: Choosing the Right Spring Rental Car
To simplify your choice, here is the straightforward rule we use internally at Blue Car Rental, based on your intended travel plan:
- Staying near Reykjavík or doing short, paved day trips? → Toyota Yaris
- Driving the Ring Road or major tourist routes (South Coast, Golden Circle)? → Midsize SUV (Vitara/Duster/RAV4)
- Planning remote access, early spring travel, or seeking maximum comfort/space? → Large SUV (Wrangler/Discovery Sport)
Remember: Spring is defined by flexibility and variability. A little extra capability in your vehicle goes a long way toward ensuring a stress-free trip.
Blue Car Rental’s Essential Local Advice for Spring Driving
While spring driving is undeniably easier than winter, Iceland’s environment still commands respect. Even outside peak winter months, drivers must stay alert when driving in Iceland, especially in changing weather and variable road conditions.
- Always check the official Icelandic weather (Veður) and road conditions (Vegagerðin) websites daily, even in May. These updates are essential for spotting road closures, wind warnings, and changing conditions on main routes and secondary roads. Winds, intense rain, and unexpected cold snaps can still appear with minimal warning.
- Winds are a Major Factor: Be extremely cautious opening car doors in high winds. The gusts are powerful enough to damage hinges, and you are financially responsible for such damage. Park facing the wind when possible.
- Drive with Confidence: Blue Car Rental's philosophy is to choose a car that offers confidence and peace of mind, not just the cheapest option. Our rentals are supported 24 hours a day, and we recommend using credit cards for deposits and payments to keep the process smooth and secure. The correct vehicle transforms your trip into a calmer, safer, and infinitely more enjoyable experience.
Final Thoughts on Your Spring Road Trip in Iceland
A self-drive spring road trip in Iceland represents one of the best times to experience the country. You can enjoy famous waterfalls in Iceland, soak in natural hot springs, visit the Blue Lagoon, and still have a chance to see the northern lights early in the season. The combination of fewer crowds, increasing daylight, and improving road conditions creates an ideal setting for independent travel. By selecting the right rental car, you can fully embrace the journey without unnecessary stress. We got these tips from actually driving on Icelandic roads for many years and by helping thousands of travelers stay safe.
That’s the hallmark of Blue Car Rental: Simple, actionable advice. Grounded local knowledge. And cars that are perfectly suited for the season.
HOW BLUE CAR RENTAL PREPARES YOU FOR DRIVING IN ICELAND
