Suzuki Vitara 4x4 2022

About this vehicle

The Vitara is smaller and lighter than the Tucson, and that's a genuine advantage on Iceland's narrower gravel roads and tighter parking in older towns. Automatic, five seats, real 4WD — it's built for travelers who want the gravel-road capability without the bulk of a bigger SUV.

It won't out-tow or out-carry the Tucson, but it's easier to thread down a single-lane gravel track in the Westfjords, and it's a bit more forgiving on fuel too. A solid pick for two people, or a family of four packing reasonably light.

Like the Tucson, the automatic gearbox is a real comfort upgrade over the manual budget cars once the roads get twisty.

Where it can take you

Comfortable on gravel — Westfjords, Snæfellsnes, and the connector roads in between suit the Vitara's smaller footprint well. Lighter F-roads open to it in summer (F208 south, F35 Kjölur), driven sensibly. No unbridged river crossings — deeper highland routes need a Land Cruiser.

Winter driving

Good winter Ring Road car. Studded tyres are fitted seasonally (Nov 1–Apr 14) per Icelandic rental law, and the light, nimble chassis handles well on plowed snow and ice. Being lighter than the Tucson, it's a touch more affected by strong crosswinds — worth checking the wind forecast on exposed South Coast stretches.

Luggage & fuel

2 large suitcases plus 2 cabin bags with the rear seats up — enough for a couple or a light-packing family of four.

Expect around 7–8 l/100km on petrol, similar to the Tucson but with a slightly lighter body helping it along on longer stretches. Iceland's fuel prices run high — check live fuel prices on our gas stations map before a long day's drive.

What's included

• CDW (Collision Damage Waiver)
• Theft protection
• Gravel protection
• Free cancellation
• 24/7 roadside assistance
• Keflavik Airport pickup (free shuttle)
• 12% discount with code MAP