When I landed in Iceland, I had one thing in mind: making this road trip as memorable as possible. I'd heard about the country's vast landscapes, endless horizons, and roads that seemed built for adventure.
But I also knew that long hours behind the wheel could either be an incredible experience or a tiring one.
That's when I decided: "why not go for a luxury car rental?"
Why I Chose a Luxury Car Over a Regular Rental
At first, I debated whether a regular rental would be enough. I mean, a car is a car, right?
But after reading about Iceland's unpredictable weather and the sheer amount of time I'd be spending on the road, I figured a little extra comfort wouldn't hurt.
Looking back, I couldn't be happier with my choice.
Also check out our informative blog post about car rental tips, pickup driving and returns
The Best Part? The Comfort.
Iceland's famous drives, like the Golden Circle and the South Coast, aren't short.
Some days, I spent hours behind the wheel, stopping only to admire waterfalls, black sand beaches, or steaming geothermal areas. Having a car with plush seats, a quiet cabin, and smooth handling made a huge difference.
I wasn't constantly adjusting my seat or stretching my back, everything just felt effortless.
Safety Features That Made a Difference
Iceland's weather is, in one word, unpredictable.
One minute, it's bright and clear, and the next, strong winds and rain roll in. That's where a luxury car really proved its worth.
With adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and all-wheel drive, I always felt in control, even on slick roads.
I recommend checking out this article about best tips to winter driving
How to Pick the Right Luxury Car for Iceland
With so many options, I had a tough time choosing.
But after some trial and error, I found a few standouts that would work for different travelers:
Best for Solo Travelers & Couples
- Land Rover Discovery: If you love a quiet, smooth ride and luxurious ride.
- Mercedes-Benz E-Class: A sleek option with a mix of power and elegance.
Best for Families & Groups
- Range Rover Sport: Great for long drives and mixed terrain.
- Audi Q7: Spacious, powerful, and great for winter driving.
Best for Sustainability
- Tesla Model X: If you want an electric, zero-emission trip.
- Volvo XC90 Hybrid: A solid mix of power and fuel efficiency.
Things I Wish I Knew Before Renting
If you're considering renting a car in Iceland, especially a luxury one, here are a few things I learned along the way:
- Not all roads are luxury-car friendly. If you plan on driving to Iceland's remote Highlands, you'll need a sturdy 4x4.
- Electric cars are great?but plan ahead. Charging stations are common in cities but sparse in the countryside.
- Pack smart. If you're traveling with a lot of luggage, go for an SUV over a sedan.
- Winter travelers, take note. Heated seats, winter tires, and all-wheel drive will make a big difference.
Is a Luxury Car Rental Worth It?
For me, it absolutely was. I never once regretted having a smooth, safe, and comfortable ride. If you're planning to drive a lot, especially over long distances, upgrading your car rental in Iceland might just be the best decision you make.
Want the Same Experience?
If you're heading to Iceland and want to experience the road trip of a lifetime, check out luxury car rentals in Iceland with Northbound. The right car can turn a good trip into a great one.
