Land Rover Defender or similar | Automatic | 4×4

_{^{Last updated: June 2026 | Reviewed by the Hertz Iceland Fleet Team}}

The Land Rover Defender 110 is a full-size, genuinely capable 4×4 SUV — the most highland-ready vehicle in the Hertz Iceland standard fleet. F-road permitted, with 291mm ground clearance, 900mm wading depth, and Terrain Response drive modes built for Iceland’s highland tracks and river crossings. Rented on an “or similar” basis. Minimum age 23. Two credit cards required at pickup.

Land Rover Defender Rental Iceland: Full-Size AWD 4×4 Guide

The Land Rover Defender 110 is not a crossover SUV with AWD badging — it’s a purpose-built F-road vehicle with genuine highland engineering. Ground clearance of up to 291mm, 900mm wading depth, locking differentials, a twin-speed transfer box, and Terrain Response drive modes are standard features, not optional extras. For travellers planning F-road routes, Highland tracks, or river crossings in Iceland, the Defender 110 is the most capable vehicle in the Hertz Iceland fleet at this price tier.

Available in both petrol and diesel variants depending on fleet availability, the Defender 110 seats five adults comfortably with 4 large suitcases plus additional soft bags — enough for a family or group on a full Ring Road itinerary with Highland detours.

Is the Land Rover Defender 110 Good for Driving in Iceland?

Yes — it’s the most capable F-road vehicle in the Hertz Iceland standard fleet and one of the strongest choices for F-road and Highland driving in Iceland.

• Real-World Space: 4 large hard-shell suitcases fit comfortably with all five seats in use, plus additional soft bags in remaining boot space. The Defender 110’s load floor is flat and wide — practical for trailhead loading and unloading with bulky gear.
• F-Road & Highland Capability: 291mm ground clearance, 900mm wading depth with Wade Sensing, locking differentials, twin-speed transfer box, and Terrain Response drive modes. This is genuine F-road engineering, not crossover AWD. Permitted on all F-roads and Highland tracks in summer — check road.is and safe.hertz.is/f-road-guide before entering.
• Engine Performance: Diesel variants deliver up to 570–600 Nm torque (D250) with real-world fuel economy around 8.5L/100km — well suited to long highland days on remote routes. Petrol variants (P300/P400) offer up to 400 PS with stronger acceleration at the expense of fuel economy. Both are mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.
• Range: Diesel variants achieve up to 1,022 km WLTP combined range on the 90-litre tank — exceptional for remote Iceland driving where fuel stations can be 100+ km apart.
• Winter Performance: Permanent AWD with Terrain Response Snow mode, air suspension adjustability, and winter tyres make the Defender one of the most confident winter vehicles in the fleet on and off paved roads.
• Safety: 5-star Euro NCAP rating, scoring 85% adult occupant protection. Standard suite includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, 3D surround camera, and driver condition monitor. For pre-trip safety planning, see safe.hertz.is.

When Is the Land Rover Defender 110 the Right Choice?

• Summer F-road season (June–August): The Defender’s prime territory — Landmannalaugar, Þórsmörk, Kjölur, Askja, and any highland route that requires genuine F-road engineering rather than just AWD. River crossings, steep volcanic descents, and loose gravel tracks are what the Defender was built for.
• Winter (October–April): Exceptional on main roads and gravel in winter conditions. F-roads are closed in winter. For winter driving guidance, visit safe.hertz.is.
• Year-Round Ring Road: Overkill for purely paved driving, but a genuinely comfortable, premium-feeling long-distance vehicle — the Defender 110 cabin is a significant step up from the Duster or Bigster for multi-day comfort.

⚠️ Not ideal if:

• You need a guaranteed specific model — booked “or similar,” you’ll receive a comparable large AWD 4×4 if the Defender is unavailable.
• You are 2 people with light luggage on paved roads only — the Defender’s capability is underused on purely paved routes, and a Dacia Duster or Bigster provides the same F-road access at a lower price point.
• You cannot present two credit cards at pickup — this is a non-negotiable requirement for the Defender category.

Rental Requirements & Restrictions

• Minimum Age: 23 years old.
• License: Valid driving license held for a minimum of 1 year. IDP required if license is not in Roman script.
• Payment: Two valid credit cards in the main renter’s name required at pickup. This applies to all Defender rentals.
• F-Road Policy: Permitted (summer only). Check road.is for current road status and safe.hertz.is/f-road-guide for F-road eligibility confirmation before entering Highland areas.
• Important: Driving on unmarked land, beaches, lava fields, or moss outside designated roads is illegal in Iceland.

Inside the Land Rover Defender 110

Step into the Defender 110 and the difference from every other 4×4 in this fleet is immediate. The seating position is commanding — high, upright, with visibility in all directions that smaller SUVs simply cannot match. The dashboard is purpose-designed around utility rather than minimalism, with the 11.4-inch Pivi Pro touchscreen angled for easy use without removing your eyes from the road, and physical shortcut buttons for Terrain Response, heated seats, and driving modes within reach at all times.

The cabin blends rugged material quality with genuine comfort — leather seating on higher trims, aluminium and satin surfaces throughout, and a solidity to every switch and surface that reflects the engineering underneath. Five adults sit comfortably with rear legroom that doesn’t require anyone to negotiate, and the wide rear doors make access straightforward even when parked on uneven highland ground.

The 8-speed automatic transmission stays smooth on long highway stretches and responsive on highland tracks. The air suspension’s ability to raise the vehicle at the touch of a button changes the feel of the Defender entirely when moving from tarmac to gravel — you feel the vehicle prepare itself for what’s coming rather than waiting to be surprised by it.

At the end of a long highland day, parked at a campsite in the interior with the temperature dropping outside and the heated seats doing their job, the Defender 110 is a different proposition from any other rental vehicle on Iceland’s roads.

Land Rover Defender 110 Dimensions, Seating and Luggage For Your Trip

The Defender 110’s boot is wide, flat-floored, and practical for real-world packing. Four large hard-shell suitcases fit with all five seats occupied, and additional soft bags slot in around them. For groups combining full luggage with hiking gear, camera equipment, or camping supplies, the load space is substantially more usable than in a smaller 4×4.

Why Rent a Land Rover Defender in Iceland with Hertz Iceland?

• Choosing Hertz Iceland means renting from a locally owned operator with over 50 years of experience, operating in Iceland since 1971. We have been recognised as Iceland’s Leading Car Rental Company at the World Travel Awards in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2025 — and are proud to be nominated again in 2026.
• Or Similar Guarantee: The Defender 110 is rented by category — if unavailable, you’ll receive a comparable large AWD 4×4. Never downgraded in F-road capability class.
• Under 2 Years Old: Every Defender in our fleet is under two years old — current specification, low mileage, full manufacturer warranty in effect.
• Safety First: 5-star Euro NCAP, season-appropriate tyres, and 24/7 emergency phone assistance across the entire island. For pre-trip safety planning, visit safe.hertz.is.
• Convenience: Available across all 11 Hertz Iceland locations, with direct pickup at KEF Airport Arrival Hall.

Hertz Iceland: Locally Operated Since 1971

As Iceland’s premier local experts for over 55 years, we combine international standards with deep-rooted knowledge of Icelandic terrain. Rent with the authority that knows every F-road and weather pattern since 1971.

History of Land Rover

Land Rover was founded in Britain in 1948, when Maurice Wilks — chief designer at the Rover Company — sketched the first Land Rover on a beach in Wales, inspired by the American Jeep he’d been using on his farm. The original Land Rover was designed as a simple, go-anywhere utility vehicle. It succeeded beyond all expectations, becoming the vehicle of choice for farmers, military operations, and expeditions across every terrain on earth.

The Defender nameplate has its roots in the Series models of the 1950s and 1960s, formalised as “Defender” in 1990 to distinguish the utilitarian workhorse from the more road-focused Discovery and Range Rover. The original Defender ran continuously until 2016, when Land Rover retired it after nearly 70 years of production. The current generation — the L663, launched in 2020 — reimagines the Defender with modern engineering, an aluminium body, and technology that would have seemed impossible in the original, while keeping the fundamental promise intact: it goes where other vehicles cannot.

In Iceland, where the highlands demand vehicles that can handle river crossings, loose volcanic gravel, and steep descents, the Defender’s reputation is well-earned. Renting a Land Rover Defender 110 with Hertz Iceland means driving the vehicle that has defined capable F-road travel for over seven decades.

Land Rover Defender 110 vs Jeep Wrangler

Looking for a Jeep Wrangler rental in Iceland? Hertz Iceland does not currently offer the Jeep Wrangler, but the Land Rover Defender 110 is a strong alternative for travelers seeking an automatic 4×4 with high ground clearance and genuine Highland-road capability. Both vehicles are designed for demanding terrain, but the Defender 110 provides a more refined cabin and greater emphasis on long-distance comfort.

Comparison specifications are provided to help travelers understand the differences between the vehicles. Hertz Iceland does not currently offer the Jeep Wrangler. Defender specifications and equipment may vary because this vehicle is booked on an “or similar” basis.

Rental Locations

The Land Rover Defender 110 is available across all 11 Hertz Iceland locations:

What’s Included in Your Rental

• 24/7 emergency phone support across Iceland
• Unlimited mileage
• Free cancellation up to 3 days before pickup
• Basic Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
• Third-party liability coverage
• VAT (included in your rental price)
  • Road tax (not included in the rental quote): it wil be charged separately after return, based on actual km driven — see Road Tax section below
• Season-appropriate tyres (winter tyres in winter, summer tyres in warmer months)

⚠️ Two credit cards required at pickup

Land Rover Defender Rental in Iceland FAQ

• Can I drive the Land Rover Defender 110 on F-roads in Iceland?

  Yes — in summer only. The Defender 110 is permitted on all F-roads and Highland tracks, including technically demanding routes requiring river crossings. Always check road.is for current road status and safe.hertz.is/f-road-guide to confirm vehicle eligibility before entering Highland areas. F-roads are closed in winter.

• Why do I need two credit cards to rent the Defender?

  The Land Rover Defender requires two valid credit cards in the main renter’s name at pickup. This applies to all Defender rentals — both the gas and PHEV versions. Both cards must be physically present at the rental desk. Debit cards do not qualify.

• What’s the difference between the petrol and diesel Defender?

  Both are automatic AWD with the same F-road capability and F-road access. The diesel variants (D250) offer superior fuel economy (~8.5L/100km) and up to 1,022 km range on a full tank — better for long remote routes where fuel stations are sparse. The petrol variants (P300/P400) offer stronger acceleration and up to 400 PS. Specific engine availability depends on fleet allocation at pickup — both are fully capable of everything Iceland’s F-roads require.

• How much luggage fits in the Defender 110?

  The Defender 110 fits 4 large hard-shell suitcases plus additional soft bags with all five seats in use. The flat load floor and wide tailgate opening make loading practical at trailheads and remote campsites. For groups combining full luggage with hiking or photography gear, the Defender’s boot space handles it without requiring rear seat reconfiguration.

• Is the Defender 110 a guaranteed model?

  No — the Defender 110 is rented on an “or similar” basis. If this exact model is unavailable, you’ll receive a comparable large AWD 4×4 of equivalent capability. If you need a guaranteed specific vehicle, see our Guaranteed Model options including the BMW X3, BMW X5, Toyota Land Cruiser 250, Range Rover Sport PHEV, and Land Rover Defender 130.

• Where can I find driving safety information for Iceland?

  Hertz Iceland operates safe.hertz.is — a dedicated driving safety hub covering F-road guidance, winter driving, road conditions, and emergency contacts. Available to all travellers in Iceland, not just Hertz customers. The F-road guide specifically covers vehicle eligibility by category.

• Does Hertz Iceland offer Roadside Assistance?

  Yes. Roadside Assistance can be added at the rental desk upon pick-up (not bookable online). It costs 1,990 ISK/day as a stand-alone option, or 990 ISK/day when combined with Max Cover. If you require service on the road, pay the third-party provider directly on-site and keep your itemized receipt. Upon returning your vehicle, present the receipt to our team, and Hertz Iceland will refund the covered eligible amount back to your card on file. For immediate 24/7 support anywhere in Iceland, call our emergency line: +354 858 0499.

• How much does a Land Rover Defender rental in Iceland cost per day?

  Defender rates vary substantially by season, rental length, coverage choices and booking date. On hertz.is, the daily base rate can start as low as $202 USD (excluding airport tax and extras) with the Pay Now option. Hertz uses dynamic pricing, so the only reliable rate is the live quote for your dates and pickup location. Enter your trip details in the search widget on hertz.is to see it.

• Does the Land Rover Defender have air suspension and off-road modes?

  The Defender 110 reference model has electronic air suspension and Terrain Response, with modes for Grass/Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Rock Crawl. Air suspension can raise ground clearance to up to 291 mm (11.5 in). Please note that off-road driving is illegal in Iceland. These capabilities are for gravel roads, snow and officially open F-roads, never for leaving marked roads and tracks. Specifications may vary because the category is booked as “or similar”.

• Does my US credit card insurance cover a Land Rover Defender rental?

  Possibly, but never assume it does. US credit card rental protection varies by card. It may exclude premium or high-value vehicles, specialized 4×4 vehicles, tires, underbody damage, water damage, or driving on F-roads, Highland tracks and other unpaved routes. Before you travel, ask your card issuer to confirm in writing that your card covers Iceland, the Land Rover Defender and the roads you plan to drive.

• Is the Land Rover Defender hard to drive for Americans used to SUVs?

  No. Most Americans used to large SUVs should find it manageable. Iceland drives on the right, and the Defender rental is an automatic. It is a wide, heavy SUV, though, so take extra care on narrow roads, single-lane bridges and in small parking areas.

• Is the Land Rover Defender the best 4×4 for Iceland in winter?

  The Defender is one of Iceland’s strongest winter rental options, but it isn’t automatically the best choice for every traveler. Permanent AWD, Snow mode, high ground clearance and winter tires give useful traction. They can’t overcome black ice, extreme winds, poor visibility or closed roads. For an ordinary winter Ring Road trip, a smaller AWD SUV may be easier and more economical. The Defender is worth it when extra clearance, luggage space and rough-road capability are priorities.

• Is the Land Rover Defender good for a Highland road trip in summer?

  The five-seat Defender 110 is suitable for summer Highland travel when your rental is approved for F-roads. It has Terrain Response, low-range capability, locking differentials and high ground clearance. Highland roads are rough, and they usually stay closed until June or July, depending on the year and route. River-crossing and water damage are not covered by any Hertz Iceland protection package.

• Is the Land Rover Defender safe on icy roads and snowy mountain passes?

  The Defender provides strong traction on snowy and icy roads with proper winter tires, but no 4×4 is immune to skidding. Reduce speed, increase your following distance, avoid sudden steering or braking, and check road and weather conditions before crossing mountain passes. If a road is closed or conditions are beyond your winter driving experience, the safe choice is to delay your trip. AWD helps you accelerate and keep traction, but it doesn’t shorten braking distances on ice.

• What is the minimum age to rent a Land Rover Defender in Iceland?

  For Hertz Iceland, the minimum age is generally:

  • Defender 110 (petrol, diesel or PHEV): 23 years.
  • Defender 130 seven-seater: 25 years.

  Drivers must also have held a valid license for at least one year. Defender categories may require two credit cards in the main renter’s name at pickup.