Question 1

Is a medium car suitable for the Ring Road?

Accepted Answer

Yes, as long as you stick to paved roads. Iceland's Ring Road (Route 1) is completely paved and well-maintained, making it perfect for medium cars year-round. These vehicles offer excellent comfort for the long driving days typical of a Ring Road circuit (the full loop is approximately 1,332 kilometers). You'll have ample space for luggage and passengers while maintaining good fuel efficiency. For F-roads and gravel tracks, we recommend upgrading to a 4x4. Note that even some popular tourist routes like the road to Þórsmörk or certain Highland routes require 4x4 vehicles by law, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Question 2

Can I collect a medium car at Keflavík Airport?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! All of our medium and mid-size rental cars are available for pickup at Keflavík International Airport (KEF). This is Iceland's main international airport and our most popular collection point. You can collect your vehicle immediately upon arrival, allowing you to start your Icelandic adventure without delay.

Question 3

What’s the difference between a medium and a large car?

Accepted Answer

The key differences lie in size, passenger comfort, and price. Medium cars typically accommodate 5 passengers with 2-3 large suitcases, while large cars offer more interior space, often fitting 3-4 large suitcases plus carry-ons. Large cars usually have more legroom, especially in rear seats, making them more comfortable for taller passengers or longer journeys. However, medium cars are more maneuverable in tight spaces and parking areas, consume less fuel, and cost approximately 15-25% less per day. For most travelers doing the Ring Road or South Coast, a medium car provides the best balance of comfort and value.

Question 4

What transmission options are available?

Accepted Answer

We offer both automatic and manual transmission options. Automatic transmissions are increasingly preferred by international visitors, especially those from countries where manual cars are less common. However, manual cars typically cost slightly less to rent. All of our vehicles are clearly marked with their transmission type during the booking process, so you can choose the option you're most comfortable with.

Question 5

What insurance should I get for a medium car rental?

Accepted Answer

All GO Iceland rentals include basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) as standard. For medium cars, we recommend considering Gravel Protection (GP), as loose gravel on Iceland's roads can cause windscreen or paint damage - this is one of the most common issues not covered by basic CDW. Super CDW (SCDW) reduces your excess/deductible significantly and provides additional peace of mind. If you're traveling in winter (October-April), consider adding Sand and Ash Protection (SAAP) as volcanic ash and sand storms can occur. Many travelers find the comprehensive 'worry-free' package offers the best value, covering all common scenarios and reducing financial exposure to minimal amounts. We're happy to discuss your specific itinerary and recommend appropriate coverage levels.

Question 6

How much does it cost to rent a medium car in Iceland?

Accepted Answer

Medium car rental prices in Iceland vary by season, booking advance time, and rental duration. Generally, expect to pay around 10,000 ISK per day (approximately $82 USD) for our medium cars during summer peak season. Prices are typically 20-30% lower during winter months (November-March). Longer rental periods qualify for discounted daily rates. Booking 2-3 months in advance usually secures the best rates. All our prices include unlimited mileage, basic insurance, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before your booking begins. Use our online booking system to get exact pricing for your specific travel dates.

Question 7

Can I add an additional driver to my medium car rental?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can add additional drivers to your rental. All additional drivers must be present at pickup with a valid driver's license and must meet the same age requirements as the primary driver (minimum 18 years old, with a license held for at least 12 months). Additional drivers can be added during the booking process or at the rental desk upon collection. We recommend adding drivers during booking to ensure a faster pickup process. Having multiple drivers is especially valuable for Ring Road trips, allowing you to share driving duties on longer travel days.

Question 8

Do medium cars have enough space for camping equipment?

Accepted Answer

Medium cars can accommodate camping equipment for 1-2 people, but space is limited. Wagon models like the Renault Megane Wagon offer the most cargo capacity in our medium category. If you're planning extensive camping with bulky gear (tents, sleeping bags, cooking equipment, food supplies) or camping with 3+ people, consider upgrading to a large car or SUV for additional cargo space. Alternatively, many of our 4x4 vehicles offer roof racks that can accommodate extra gear while keeping the interior comfortable for passengers.

Medium & Mid-Size Car Hire in Iceland

Looking for a bit of space and comfort?

How to Choose the Right Medium Car for Your Iceland Trip

Best For:

Consider a Smaller Car If:

Consider a Larger Vehicle If:

Our Selection of Medium & Mid-Size Cars

Why Choose a Medium/Mid-Size Car?

Choosing the Right Medium Car by Season

Summer Travel (May - September)

Winter Travel (October - April)

What's Included with Your Medium Car Rental

How to Collect Your Medium Car at Keflavík Airport

Why Rent a Medium/Mid-Sized Car with GO Iceland Car Rental?

Medium & Mid-Size Car Rental FAQ