Best 4x4 Rental Cars for Ski Trips to Gudauri & Bakuriani (2026 Picks)

The ski season in Georgia is officially open! Whether you are chasing powder in Gudauri or planning a family holiday in Bakuriani, the adventure begins the moment you hit the road. However, many tourists make a common mistake: they rent a standard city car for a mountain trip.

While Georgia's main highways are well-maintained, the final stretch to ski resorts can be icy, snowy, and steep. To ensure you don't get stuck halfway, choosing the right car rental in Georgia is crucial.

At Star Car, we specialize in winter-ready vehicles. Here is your guide to choosing the perfect 4x4 for your 2026 ski trip.

Why You Need a 4x4 for Gudauri and Bakuriani

Even if the weather in Tbilisi is sunny and dry, the mountains are a different world. The road to Gudauri (the Georgian Military Highway) involves steep serpentines, and Bakuriani is known for deep snow.

Here is why a 4x4 or SUV is non-negotiable:

• Traction: You need power distributed to all four wheels to grip icy surfaces.
• Ground Clearance: Snow piles can damage the bottom of a low sedan.
• Safety: SUVs offer better visibility and stability in foggy conditions.

Top Picks from Star Car Fleet

We have curated a list of the best vehicles for winter conditions. You can browse our full fleet here, but these are our top recommendations for skiers:

1. The Agile Choice: Subaru Forester / XV

• Best for: Couples or small groups (3-4 people).
• Why we love it: Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is legendary. It handles snowy corners better than almost any other car in its class. It is fuel-efficient yet powerful enough for the mountains.
• Availability: Perfect for pickup if you choose car rental in Tbilisi.

2. The Family Choice: Toyota RAV4 or Prado

• Best for: Families with luggage and ski gear.
• Why we love it: These mid-size and large SUVs offer plenty of space and comfort. The Toyota Prado is a beast that can handle any weather condition, while the RAV4 offers a smooth, comfortable ride for long journeys.

3. The Group Choice: Minivans (Mercedes Vito)

• Best for: Large groups (5-8 people).
• Why we love it: If you are traveling with a big crew, renting two cars is expensive. A minivan allows you to travel together. Note: Our minivans are equipped with premium winter tires to ensure safety despite the vehicle's size.

Gudauri vs. Bakuriani: Which Car Fits Your Trip?

Your destination dictates your car choice.

• Going to Gudauri? You will be driving on the Georgian Military Highway. It involves sharp turns and steep climbs. We highly recommend a Subaru or a powerful SUV for this route.
• Going to Bakuriani? The road is flatter but often has more snow coverage on the ground. If you are flying into the west, car rental in Kutaisi is the best starting point (it's closer to Bakuriani/Borjomi). A spacious Crossover or Minivan is ideal here for carrying sleds and kids' equipment.

Essential Add-Ons for Ski Trips

When booking your SUV rental in Tbilisi or Batumi car rental, don't forget these essentials:

1. Full Insurance: Winter roads are unpredictable. Sliding on ice can happen to the best drivers. We recommend upgrading to Full Insurance to avoid stress about scratches or dents.
2. Ski Racks: Ask our operator if roof racks are available for your specific model when booking.
3. Airport Pickup: Don't waste money on taxis. We can deliver your 4x4 directly to Tbilisi, Kutaisi, or Batumi airports, so you can load your gear and go straight to the mountains.

Ready to Hit the Slopes?

Don't let a small car ruin your big winter vacation. Safety and comfort should be your priority.

Important Reminders from Star Car:

• Minimum rental period: 3 Days.
• Minimum driver age: 20 Years.
• All cars come with seasonal winter tires included!

Book your 4x4 today and conquer the Georgian winter!

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