November 15, 2024
Discover the top 10 compact SUVs for pet owners in 2024, featuring the most pet-friendly options with easy access, ample space, and convenient accessories.
For pet owners, a comfortable and convenient vehicle is a must-have. The compact SUV segment in 2024 offers several options that blend space, safety features, and pet-friendly designs to ensure a smooth journey for you and your four-legged companions.
This guide highlights the best compact SUVs for pet owners in the USA, offering practical features, ample storage, and safety elements to enhance every trip with your pet.
1. Subaru Forester
Price Range: $28,000 – $38,000
The Subaru Forester has long been a favorite among pet owners, thanks to its spacious cabin and durable materials. Its low loading height makes it easy for pets to hop in, and it comes with a large cargo area—ideal for larger dog crates. Subaru even offers Pet-Friendly Accessory Kits that include seat covers, pet harnesses, and cargo area protectors.
2. Honda CR-V
Price Range: $30,000 – $40,000
The Honda CR-V shines with a generous cargo capacity and wide-opening rear doors, making it easy for pets to enter and exit. With ample legroom and flat-folding rear seats, this SUV offers enough space for pet crates or carriers. The CR-V’s cabin materials are easy to clean, and available all-weather mats help protect the interior from pet hair and dirt.
3. Toyota RAV4
Price Range: $29,000 – $39,000
The Toyota RAV4 offers a roomy cabin and a large cargo area that’s perfect for accommodating pet carriers. Its durable, easy-to-clean materials and optional hands-free liftgate make it a practical choice for pet owners who need to load and unload frequently. Toyota also provides a range of pet accessories, like cargo liners and pet barriers, for additional convenience.
4. Mazda CX-5
Price Range: $28,500 – $38,000
The Mazda CX-5 provides a comfortable ride with high-quality interior materials that resist wear and tear, making it suitable for pet travel. The CX-5 has fold-flat rear seats to create a spacious area for your pet to lie down, and its cabin is designed with comfort in mind, including climate control features that keep pets cool.
5. Ford Escape
Price Range: $29,000 – $40,000
The Ford Escape offers a versatile cargo space and an easy-access rear that’s great for pets. Its rear seats can fold down for maximum space, and there’s an option for a pet-friendly mat that simplifies cleanup. The Escape Hybrid model provides additional fuel efficiency for longer trips, making it ideal for road trips with pets.
6. Hyundai Tucson
Price Range: $29,000 – $41,000
The Hyundai Tucson stands out with its spacious interior and pet-friendly features, including wide rear doors, a large cargo area, and plenty of headroom. Hyundai also offers a pet accessory line with covers, pet partitions, and even portable water bowls, which is a bonus for pet owners.
7. Chevrolet Equinox
Price Range: $27,500 – $37,500
The Chevrolet Equinox provides a roomy cabin and user-friendly tech, making it a comfortable choice for both pets and owners. Its rear seats fold down flat to expand cargo space, ideal for accommodating larger pets or crates. The Equinox’s quiet ride also helps to keep pets calm on the road.
8. Kia Sportage
Price Range: $28,000 – $38,500
The Kia Sportage is known for its roomy rear seat and large cargo area. With flat-folding rear seats and easy-to-clean interior materials, this compact SUV is a practical choice for pet owners. Kia’s accessories include cargo mats and seat covers that help keep your car clean, even with shedding pets.
9. Nissan Rogue
Price Range: $28,500 – $39,500
The Nissan Rogue is equipped with a spacious cargo area and Nissan’s EZ Flex Seating System, which allows for various seat configurations. This flexibility is beneficial for pet owners who may need to transport crates, carriers, or other pet accessories. It also features a Divide-N-Hide Cargo System for added storage options.
10. Volkswagen Tiguan
Price Range: $29,000 – $41,000
With a versatile cargo area and a third-row option, the Volkswagen Tiguan offers plenty of space for pet owners. Its easy-folding rear seats allow for a flat cargo area, and the available all-weather mats make cleanup a breeze. The Tiguan’s spacious layout and quiet cabin help keep pets comfortable, especially on longer trips.
Honorable Mention: Jeep Cherokee
Price Range: $30,000 – $42,000
The Jeep Cherokee is a rugged choice for adventurous pet owners. While its off-road capabilities stand out, it also provides a spacious and pet-friendly cabin. The Cherokee’s fold-flat rear seats offer ample room for pets, and Jeep offers accessories like cargo mats, pet barriers, and all-weather liners, making it a strong option for pet owners who enjoy outdoor activities.
Tips for Pet Owners Traveling with Pets
- Invest in pet accessories like seat covers, cargo mats, and pet barriers to keep your SUV clean and safe.
- Use pet harnesses or carriers to ensure pets are secure and comfortable during the trip.
- Pack pet essentials including food, water, a leash, and waste bags for a worry-free ride.
- Ventilation and temperature control are essential. Keep the AC on during warmer months, and avoid leaving pets in the car unattended.
- Take breaks on long trips to allow your pet to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.
