Toyota Land Cruiser 150 or similar

Transmission: Automatic – Seats: 5 – Luggage: approx. 5 large suitcases (more with seats folded) – Drive: 4×4 with low range (permitted on F-roads)

The Toyota Land Cruiser 150 (3.0-litre diesel, automatic) in 5-seat configuration is built for Iceland’s toughest days and longest distances. It’s a body-on-frame 4×4 with serious hardware—proper low range, generous clearance, and a torque-rich diesel—yet it remains quiet, comfortable, and easy to live with on the Ring Road. If your plan includes Reykjavík city miles, big coastal stretches, and a well-planned Highland leg in summer, the 5-seat Land Cruiser brings the space, stamina, and capability to do it all without fuss.

Purpose-built for Iceland

This Land Cruiser rides on a ladder-frame chassis designed to shrug off corrugations and rough surfaces. The low-range transfer case gives controlled torque at walking speeds for steeper, looser sections, while electronic helpers—hill-descent control and traction aids—add confidence when conditions turn. Despite its rugged underpinnings, the LC150 is calm on tarmac: it tracks straight in crosswinds, soaks up long highway days, and keeps cabin noise low enough for easy conversation.

Cabin comfort that lasts all day

Up front, you sit high with excellent sightlines over changing terrain and weather. Seats are broad and supportive (with heated fronts common in this class), and the driving position is relaxed for long stints. The second row offers adult-friendly legroom and wide-opening doors for easy access. Controls are clear and robust, the automatic gearbox keeps stop-start city sections hassle-free, and dual-/multi-zone climate control maintains an even temperature when the weather can’t make up its mind.

Big-boot practicality (5-seat advantage)

Choosing the 5-seat layout unlocks a substantially larger cargo bay. Expect room for about five large suitcases with space left for soft bags; fold the rear bench and you’ll have a long, flat load floor for tripods, camping gear, or bulky equipment. The square opening and low sill make loading straightforward—even when it’s gusty at roadside viewpoints or wet underfoot by a waterfall car park.

Diesel torque, easy progress

The 3.0-litre turbo-diesel serves up strong mid-range pull for hills, headwinds, and overtakes without constant downshifts. Paired with the smooth automatic, it settles into an unhurried rhythm on the open road and meters power precisely when surfaces change. Expect sensible consumption for a full-size diesel 4×4, helped by the engine’s low-rev torque and relaxed cruising manner.

Where you can drive

With 4×4, low range, and high clearance, the Land Cruiser 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 river crossings that exceed the vehicle’s capability, and check daily road and weather updates before heading into the Highlands.

Safety & seasonal setup

Safety essentials include multiple airbags, stability control, ABS, and ISOFIX mounts for child seats. Tyres are fitted for the season—winter tyres from November to April for plowed winter roads and quality all-season tyres in summer. Drive to conditions: ease off on gravel, allow longer braking distances, and expect rapid changes in wind and visibility.