Compare prices and check availability for automatic car hire at Keflavík (KEF). Choose the right size for your group and travel plans.
Why Choose Automatic Car Hire
Automatic cars remove the stress of frequent gear changes on unfamiliar roads. They suit families, groups and drivers used to UK cars.
On Iceland’s coastal routes, automatic vehicles let you focus on weather and hazards rather than shifting. This can improve comfort on longer transfers.
What Types of Automatic Cars Are Available
At Keflavík you will find a broad fleet range. Expect compact hatchbacks, small SUVs, medium estates and 4x4s with automatic transmission.
- Compact / city cars — best for single travellers and couples.
- Family hatchbacks and estates — good value for luggage and baby seats.
- Small and medium SUVs — useful on rougher rural roads in winter.
- 4×4 automatic models — for highland routes and heavy weather when allowed.
| Feature | Automatic | Manual |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of use | Simple to drive in traffic | Requires clutch and gear control |
| Fuel efficiency | Tends to be comparable nowadays | Often slightly better for some models |
| Cost | Usually higher rental rate | Often cheaper to hire |
| Suitability for tourists | Ideal for unfamiliar roads | Works for confident manual drivers |
Main takeaway. Choose an automatic for comfort on the coastal drive to Reykjavík and when carrying luggage or children.
Picking Up and Returning Your Rental Car
Most rental desks are listed inside the arrivals area. Some companies operate an external lot with a short shuttle from the terminal. Plan for 15–30 minutes to collect keys when desks are busy.
KEF’s official parking layout uses short-stay P1 near the terminal and longer-term P3 about 300 metres away. Key-drop boxes are used on return for late departures. Booking parking in advance is possible on the airport site.
Allow extra time if your flight arrives in a busy summer period. If your booking shows an off-airport pickup, check whether the company provides a shuttle.
Popular pickup locations
– Keflavík Airport — immediate access to arrivals and rental desks.
– Reykjavík city centre — convenient for downtown stays and hotels.
– Akureyri — northern hub for exploring the north and Myvatn region.
– Egilsstaðir — base for Eastfjords travel and remote pickups.
– Ísafjörður — gateway for Westfjords itineraries and island access.
– Höfn — popular for Vatnajökull and south-east glacier routes.
– Vík — handy for south coast sightseeing and short trips.
– Selfoss — useful for south region touring and Golden Circle access.
– Keflavík town — close to the airport with local rental options.
– Grindavík/Seltjarnarnes — local bases for south-west adventures.
Tips for Driving Abroad (Iceland-specific)
Expect a 45–50 minute drive from Keflavík to Reykjavík on Reykjanesbraut. The route is about 50 km. Plan that time for normal conditions.
Reykjanesbraut (Route 41) is a primary dual carriageway connecting the airport and capital area. Recent widening work has improved flow and safety. Watch for temporary speed reductions in work zones.
- Follow posted speed limits. Main limit near Route 41 is typically 90 km/h.
- Expect speed cameras on the main road between Reykjavík and the airport.
- Check road and weather updates before driving in winter or high winds.
- Use winter tyres when required by the rental company in colder months.
How Much Does Automatic Car Hire Cost
Automatic cars usually cost more than equivalent manual models. Expect a premium of roughly 10–30% depending on season and fleet availability.
Daily rates vary with season, vehicle size and insurance level. Summer months show the highest prices because demand peaks then.
| Extra | Typical Cost | Can It Be Avoided? |
|---|---|---|
| Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) excess | €300–€1,500 excess | Buy extra cover or use third-party insurance |
| Sand and ash protection | €5–€20 per day | Often charged in Iceland, hard to avoid |
| One-way fee | €30–€150 depending on route | Book same pickup and drop-off to avoid |
| Airport surcharge | Small flat fee or percentage | Compare city and airport desks to save |
Main cost tips. Book early for summer travel. Compare insurance options carefully before purchase.
Final Advice Before Booking Your Automatic Car
Reserve an automatic in advance for any travel between May and September. Availability tightens then. Expect longer queues on Fridays and Sundays.
Confirm the exact pickup point shown on your voucher. Check whether the rental includes winter tyres and whether gravel driving is permitted.
Useful links. Keflavík Airport has details on rental desks and parking. Road works and Route 41 updates are on the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration site.
FAQs — Automatic Car Hire Reykjavik Keflavik Airport
- Where are car hire desks at Keflavík? Most desks are in the arrivals hall. Some firms run short shuttles to nearby lots.
- How far is Keflavík Airport from Reykjavík? The drive is about 50 km. Expect 45–50 minutes in normal traffic.
- Can I return a rental car after my flight departs? Yes. Many companies allow key drop-off at marked boxes in the terminal. Book parking if needed.
- Are winter tyres fitted in winter? Rental firms commonly fit winter tyres during winter months. Confirm with your supplier when booking.
- Is one-way hire possible between Keflavík and Reykjavík? Yes. A one-way fee may apply. Check terms before finalising booking.
- Are there height or width restrictions departing KEF? Standard passenger cars have no special height limits. Check vehicle specs for large vans or campers.
- Do speed cameras operate on the route to Reykjavík? Yes. The main road has fixed cameras and reduced limits near towns.
- What extra charges are common in Iceland? Expect charges for CDW excess reduction, sand and ash cover, and airport surcharges.
- How long does it take to pick up a car at KEF? Allow 15–30 minutes at busy times. Off-airport collection may add shuttle time.
- Where can I check road works or closures? The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration publishes live updates and closure notices.
