Best cars for pets

American automotive website Edmunds.com has named its top 10 pet-friendly cars.

We're talking about inside safety here, not out. The respected website has identified 10 SUVs, minivans, hatchbacks and wagons that offer the most safety and comfort for everyone's favorite furry friends.

"Not only are these vehicles safe for pets, but they also offer a certain measure of convenience for pet owners," said Edmunds' Warren Clarke.

Unfortunately only seven of the top 10 vehicles are available here:

Dodge Journey
Available features include an in-dash cooler that can be used to store beverages, medicine or pet food.

Price: from $38,350
Engine: 3.6-litre V6, 206kW/342Nm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Thirst: 10.4L/100km


See other Dodge Journey verdicts



Hyundai ix35
This Hyundai offers privacy glass that helps block the strong rays of the sun.


Price: from $26,990
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder, 122kW/197Nm
Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Thirst: 8.5L/100km

See other Hyundai ix35 verdicts

Jeep Cherokee

The Jeep brand offers specialised pet travel gear, including crates, carriers and a ramp.


Price: from $28,000
Engine: 3.7-litre V6, 151kW/314Nm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Thirst: 12.4L/100km

See other Jeep Cherokee verdicts

Kia Soul

The Soul comes standard with side curtain airbags that can keep both two-legged and four-legged passengers safe in the event of a collision.


Price: from $21,490
Engine: 1.6-litre 4-clylinder, 95kW/157Nm
Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Thirst: 6.5L/100km

See other Kia Soul verdicts

Mitsubishi Outlander

The SUV also boasts fold-flat seating and stowable third-row seats - both of which increase the amount of room available for larger pets.


Price: from $28,990
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol, 110kW/190Nm
Transmission: 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Thirst: 7.0L/100km

See other Mitsubishi Outlander verdicts

Subaru Tribeca

Pet owners will appreciate the Tribeca's five-star crash test scores, steering-wheel-mounted auxiliary controls and rear back-up camera.


Price: from $54,990
Engine: 3.6-litre 6-cylinder, 190kW/350Nm
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Thirst: 11.6L/100km

See other Subaru Tribeca verdicts

Volvo XC70

The XC70 is available with a Volvo-designed pet barrier, created to remain intact during a collision.


Price: from $62,990
Engine: 3.2-litre 6-cylinder, 179kW/320Nm
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Thirst: 10.6L/100km

See other Volvo XC70 verdicts