Nissan X-Trail or similar

Transmission: Automatic – Seats: 7 – Luggage: 2 medium suitcases with all seats up (more with seats folded) – Drive: 4×4 (permitted on F-roads)

The Nissan X-Trail is a roomy, adventure-ready SUV that gives families and small groups the comfort of a modern cabin with the confidence of true four-wheel drive. As the bigger sibling to the Qashqai, it adds a third row when you need extra seats, plus the traction and ground clearance to handle Iceland’s paved roads, long gravel stretches, and carefully planned summer-only F-roads. With easygoing automatic transmission, flexible seating, and sensible fuel use for its size, the X-Trail is a superb choice for road trips that mix city time with plenty of countryside exploring.

Spacious & flexible interior

Inside, the X-Trail offers a three-row layout for up to seven passengers. The first two rows provide generous legroom and headroom for adults, while the fold-flat third row is ideal for children or shorter hops. When you’re traveling with fewer people, drop the third row (and even the second row if needed) to open up a long, flat cargo bay for bulkier gear. The cabin is quiet and thoughtfully designed, so hours on the Ring Road feel relaxed rather than tiring.

Infotainment & comfort: a clear touchscreen with smartphone integration, Bluetooth, and USB/AUX keeps navigation and playlists simple. You’ll also find a 12V outlet for accessories, and heated front seats to take the edge off chilly mornings. Controls are intuitive and within easy reach, letting you keep your eyes on the road and the scenery.

Practical cargo space

With all seven seats in use, the boot fits around two medium suitcases. If you need more room, fold the third row (and, when needed, the second row) to create a much larger, square-sided load area that’s perfect for duffels, camera kits, or camping gear. Quoted cargo-bay dimensions (approx. L 98 cm × H 85 cm × W 100 cm) make packing straightforward and predictable.

Confident, efficient performance

A 2.0-litre petrol engine paired with an automatic gearbox keeps the drive smooth in town and on the open road. Expect sensible fuel use for a large 4×4 SUV (≈ 5.3–6.0 L/100 km, depending on load, weather, and route). The 4×4 system adds traction on gravel and uneven surfaces and helps maintain stability when conditions change—ideal for Iceland’s mix of tarmac, wind, and washboarded tracks.

Safety & seasonal setup

The X-Trail includes a full suite of driver-assistance features designed for long-distance confidence, typically including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Year-round tyre management comes standard: winter tyres from November to April for plowed winter roads, and quality all-season tyres in summer. ISOFIX child-seat anchors and multiple airbags complete a safety-focused package.

Where you can drive

With its 4×4 drivetrain and higher clearance, the X-Trail is suitable for all paved roads, well-maintained gravel routes, and F-roads during the summer opening period. As always in Iceland: stay on marked roads (off-road driving is illegal), avoid deep river crossings, and check daily road and weather updates if you plan to enter the Highlands.