Why I Rented a Luxury Car in Iceland (And Why I'd Do It Again)

When I landed in Iceland, I had one goal: make the road trip unforgettable. I'd heard about the wide-open landscapes, the kind of views that stop you mid-sentence, and roads that look like they were made for adventure.

But I also knew something else. Long hours in the car can either be great or? not.

So I asked myself: why not rent a luxury car?

Why I Skipped the Regular Rental

At first, I thought a basic rental would do the job. It's just a car, right?

But after looking into Iceland's unpredictable weather and the amount of time I'd spend driving, I figured it was worth spending a bit more for extra comfort and peace of mind.

And honestly, it was.

Also check out our guide on car rental tips, pickup, driving, and returns

Comfort You Notice Right Away

I drove the Golden Circle and the South Coast ? two routes with big views and even bigger distances. Some days, I was behind the wheel for hours, only stopping to take in waterfalls, black sand beaches, and steaming geothermal areas.

Having a quiet cabin, heated seats, and smooth handling made the experience so much better. I wasn't constantly shifting in my seat or battling road noise. It felt relaxed, even after long stretches on the road.

Planning your route? Here's a full guide to the Golden Circle and South Coast.

Built for Iceland's Wild Weather

One minute it's sunny, the next it's raining sideways. That's Iceland.

And that's where the car's safety features really came through. With adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and all-wheel drive, I always felt in control ? even when the wind picked up or the roads were wet.

If you're visiting in winter, don't miss this article: Best winter driving tips in Iceland

Choosing the Right Luxury Car for Your Trip

There are a lot of options out there. These were a few I looked into ? and they're worth considering based on your travel style:

Best for Solo Travelers & Couples

• Land Rover Discovery ? Quiet and smooth on any terrain
• Mercedes-Benz E-Class ? Elegant and easy to drive

Best for Families & Groups

• Range Rover Sport ? Plenty of space for people and gear
• Audi Q7 ? Safe, powerful, and winter-ready

Best for Sustainability

• Tesla Model X ? Great if you're going electric
• Volvo XC90 Hybrid ? Good mix of power and efficiency

What I Wish I Knew Before Renting

If you're thinking about renting a luxury car in Iceland, here are a few things that would've helped me:

• Some roads aren't luxury-friendly. If you're heading into the Highlands, get a 4x4 made for rough terrain.
• Electric cars need planning. Charging is easy in cities, but sparse out in nature.
• SUVs are best if you have a lot of luggage. Sedans fill up fast.
• In winter, features matter. Look for heated seats, winter tires, and AWD.

Is a Luxury Car Worth It?

If you're planning to spend hours on the road, I'd say yes.

Having a car that was comfortable, reliable, and safe made a big difference. I got to focus on the views instead of my back or the weather. And that alone made the upgrade worth it.

Want the Same Experience?

If you're heading to Iceland and want to make the most of your trip, check out the options for luxury car rentals in Iceland on Northbound. The right car really can turn a good road trip into a great one.

FAQ

Is a luxury car worth it in Iceland?
If you're planning long drives or visiting during winter, the comfort and safety features can make a big difference.

Which luxury cars are best for Iceland travel?
SUVs like the Range Rover Sport or Volvo XC90 Hybrid are great for mixed terrain. For couples, a Land Rover Discovery is a solid pick.

Can I take a luxury car into the Highlands?
Some can handle it, but always check with the rental provider. For rough trails, a rugged 4x4 is safer.

Are electric luxury cars a good idea in Iceland?
They can be ? but plan your route carefully. Charging is easy in Reykjavík, but not everywhere.

Do luxury rentals cost a lot more?
They're more than a standard rental, but if you're driving a lot or visiting during winter, the added comfort and control are worth it.