If you’re a pet owner, your car is more than just a way to get around—it’s a lifeline for vet visits, playdates at the dog park, beach days, and family road trips.
But to make the journey comfortable for both you and your pet, you’ll want a car with a spacious, pet-friendly trunk where they can stretch out, relax, and safely enjoy the ride.
Here’s a rundown of the 20 best cars with roomy trunks that are perfect for pet owners. Whether you need an SUV, a crossover, or even a hatchback, there’s something here for every lifestyle and budget.
1. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is practically built with pets in mind. It offers tons of cargo space, especially with the seats down, and has a low trunk floor, making it easier for dogs to hop in. Plus, it’s designed for outdoor adventures with roof rails and all-wheel drive.
2. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is one of the most spacious compact SUVs out there, with over 75 cubic feet of space with the back seats folded down. Its low trunk floor is a bonus for larger pets, and the rear doors open wide, making it easy for dogs to get in and out.
3. Ford Escape
The Ford Escape combines ample trunk space with easy-to-clean surfaces and a relatively low trunk height. It has a generous cargo area and can be outfitted with a pet barrier for added safety, making it a fantastic choice for pet owners on the go.
4. Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 offers plenty of cargo room, making it ideal for both pets and gear. This compact SUV is roomy yet efficient, and the cargo area is well-shaped, maximizing space and comfort for your pet, while also being easy to clean.
5. Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevy Equinox is another spacious option, with enough room in the trunk for even larger breeds to lie down comfortably. It’s pet-friendly with a low lift-over height, which makes getting in and out a breeze. Fold down the rear seats, and you have a massive space for crates, beds, and pet accessories.
6. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is stylish and compact, yet still offers great cargo space. It’s a top choice for pet owners who want a little bit of luxury without sacrificing practicality. The rear cargo area is spacious, and its wide rear opening makes it easy to fit crates or pet barriers.
7. Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester is another Subaru pet-friendly winner with impressive cargo space and a wide rear opening. Known for its durability and reliability, the Forester is great for pet owners who enjoy outdoor adventures with their furry companions.
8. Volkswagen Atlas
For larger families and bigger pets, the Volkswagen Atlas is a solid choice. With its three-row seating, it offers a cavernous cargo area when the third row is down. Plus, it has a low step-in height, which is perfect for older dogs or pets that may struggle to jump up.
9. Kia Telluride
The Kia Telluride has made waves in the SUV world, and for good reason. It’s incredibly spacious and offers excellent trunk space, especially when the third row is folded down. The Telluride is stylish, comfortable, and ideal for road trips with pets.
10. Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer combines family-friendly features with pet-friendly space. It’s a three-row SUV, but you can fold down the last row to create a spacious trunk area. It’s roomy enough for big dogs to spread out, and you’ll still have space for gear.
11. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a versatile SUV with enough space for both passengers and pets. Its rugged build makes it great for outdoor adventures, and the trunk is spacious enough for a dog bed or crate. With the rear seats down, you’ll have an expansive flat surface for even the biggest furry friends.
12. Hyundai Santa Fe
The Hyundai Santa Fe is affordable, comfortable, and spacious, with a roomy trunk that’s perfect for pets. The Santa Fe also offers plenty of tech features to keep drivers happy, while your pet will enjoy the wide trunk area with room to spare.
13. Toyota Highlander
The Toyota Highlander is another three-row SUV with a spacious trunk area, especially with the third row folded down. It’s easy to clean and comes with a low lift-over height, so even older dogs can easily climb aboard.
14. Honda Passport
The Honda Passport is all about cargo space, making it one of the best SUVs for pet owners. With over 100 cubic feet of space with the seats down, it’s practically a doggy playground. The wide, flat floor and ample headroom give pets a lot of freedom to move around.
15. Chevrolet Tahoe
For those who need the ultimate space for pets and gear, the Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV with massive cargo capacity. Fold down the third row, and you’ve got more than enough room for crates, pet beds, or even multiple pets.
16. Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue offers a spacious trunk for a compact SUV, with a flexible cargo area that’s ideal for pet owners. It also has an available “Divide-N-Hide” cargo system, allowing you to organize and secure your pet’s essentials.
17. Hyundai Kona
If you need something smaller, the Hyundai Kona is a compact SUV that’s still pet-friendly. While it may not have the biggest cargo area on this list, it’s designed to maximize space efficiently, and it’s perfect for small to medium pets on short trips.
18. Ford Bronco Sport
The Ford Bronco Sport is built for adventure, and it’s pet-friendly, too. The trunk has a rubberized cargo mat option, making it easy to clean muddy paw prints, and the space is ideal for pet carriers or small dog beds.
19. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is known for its rugged durability and ample cargo space. It’s designed to handle rough terrain, making it ideal for pet owners who love outdoor adventures. The cargo area is spacious and durable enough for larger dogs to ride comfortably.
20. GMC Terrain
The GMC Terrain offers a pet-friendly design with a spacious trunk and low cargo height, making it easy for pets to jump in and out. It also has fold-flat seating, so you can maximize cargo space when you need it, perfect for crates or pet accessories.
Why These Cars Are Great for Pet Owners
Choosing a car with a spacious trunk isn’t just about cargo capacity—it’s about creating a comfortable and safe environment for your pets. Here’s what makes these cars ideal for pet owners:
1. Low Cargo Height: Easier for pets to jump in and out, especially helpful for older or smaller pets.
2. Flat Cargo Floor: A flat, roomy cargo floor gives your pet plenty of room to lie down comfortably.
3. Durable, Easy-to-Clean Materials: Pets can get messy, so cars with durable, washable cargo mats or rubberized floors are easier to keep clean.
4. Ample Ventilation and Rear Vents: Cars with rear vents and climate control help keep pets cool and comfortable on long drives.
Pet Safety Tips for Car Rides
While a spacious trunk is important, keeping your pet safe on the road is the top priority. Here are a few quick tips:
1. Invest in a Pet Barrier: For SUVs, a pet barrier between the trunk and passenger area keeps your pet safe and prevents distractions.
2. Use a Crate or Harness: A crate can help pets feel secure, while a pet harness that attaches to seat belts is perfect for smaller dogs or cats.
3. Keep Windows Ventilated: Avoid opening windows too far, but make sure your pet has fresh air, especially on longer trips.
Conclusion
From the Subaru Outback to the Chevrolet Tahoe, there’s a car on this list for every kind of pet owner and budget.
A spacious, well-designed trunk can make all the difference when it comes to your pet’s comfort, especially on long journeys or adventurous outings. So, pack up the doggy treats and grab your leash—it’s time to hit the road with your furry friend in tow!
