You’re probably spending a lot of time in your car these days: curbside pick-up, drive-thru dinner, drive-in concerts, even some neighborhood movie theaters are converting the parking lot to an ad hoc drive-in double feature. Planning a vacation? It’s probably by car this year. But what about your four-legged friends? Not all vehicles are designed around your dog’s needs. With the idea of making the in-car experience, however long or short, as enjoyable for your pet as it is for you, you can't go wrong in the Subaru Outback. The Outback, known for its reliability and suitability for families of all shapes, sizes and breeds, was chosen for its versatility on and off-road, allowing for safe, pup-friendly adventures.
The 2020 Subaru Outback has matured to the point where it makes a great family car no matter where you live or your stage in life. There’s a good, basic version and there’s a fancy Touring model. But no matter what version you get, Subaru totally has your back with TONS of great pet accessories. It does sit a little higher off the ground than other midsize cars but the Outback’s spectacular versatility on and off-road mean you and your furry buddy will have many adventures.
Autotrader’s list, released in honor of National Dog Day on August 26th, evaluated vehicles that have features aimed at keeping both humans and dogs safe – including large rear doors, low cargo floors and more. Vehicles named to the list offer the comfort, convenience and safety features to accommodate every two-legged and four-legged passenger. To learn more about the Best Cars for Dog Lovers of 2020, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/best-cars-for-dogs.
Ideal pet friendly vehicle features include:
Leather seats are easier to clean and are a bit more durable. However, cloth seats also have their advantages. Cloth seats are less slippery under a dog’s paws, making it easier for him or her to stay put when the car is cornering or braking. The cloth is also more comfortable, staying cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. So we recommend vehicles that have leather seats available as an option, and we do not recommend suede seats.
Tinted windows help reduce heat inside your car, although please never make the mistake of thinking it’s OK to leave a dog in a parked car just because it has tinted glass. The tint helps reduce heat and UV penetration while you’re driving along. Most SUVs come standard with tinted rear glass, but in passenger cars, you may have to ask the dealer or local shop to add it.
A level cargo floor makes it easier for your dog to get in and out, plus it makes carrying a dog crate or a large dog bed a bit easier. For vehicles with small cargo areas, a 2nd-row seat that can fold flat is the ideal solution. If you’re in the market for a new or “new to you” car, be sure to do a quick online search to be sure there are plenty of options for dog carriers and other aftermarket safety equipment.
A low cargo area makes it easier for small dogs to get in and out and is easier on the joints of older dogs. This is the main reason there aren’t any large, truck-based SUVs or pickups on our list.
Rear air vents are a great way to keep fresh, cool air circulating around your dog. If you have a three-row SUV or are required to use a dog carrier, make sure those rear A/C vents cover the third row.
Cargo area tie-downs are also crucial for securing crates, attaching harnesses, and holding in place wire or mesh barriers.
Both on and off the road, Subaru is a company committed to pet safety and well-being. The Subaru Loves Pets initiative is dedicated to helping improve the lives of dogs and other animals in communities nationwide. The automaker’s commitment to pets is one part of its Love Promise company vision. For more information about Subaru Loves Pets, please visit www.subaru.com/pets.
In 2020 Subaru has taken the Outback one step further to meet all your outdoor needs with the Onyx edition. The ultimate in Outback capability and style, the all-new Outback Onyx Edition XT is powered by a 260-horsepower direct-injection turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine. Standard dual-function X-MODE® optimizes the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system for maximum traction on slippery surfaces and lets you choose specific settings for snow, dirt, and mud. The exterior features unique design accents including black-finished alloy wheels, mirrors, and rear badging. Inside, the theme continues with two-tone StarTex® water-repellant upholstery and lime green stitching. It's not only water repellant, but also hard-wearing to stand up to the most rugged expeditions. These seats take the stress out of having a wet or muddy dog after a hike or other adventure. Learn more about the All-New Onyyx Edition XT on our website.
Shop our New Subaru Inventory to find your new Subaru Outback!
Both on and off the road, Subaru is a company committed to pet safety and well-being. The Subaru Loves Pets initiative is dedicated to helping improve the lives of dogs and other animals in communities nationwide. The automaker’s commitment to pets is one part of its Love Promise company vision. For more information about Subaru Loves Pets, please visit www.subaru.com/pets.
In 2020 Subaru has taken the Outback one step further to meet all your outdoor needs with the Onyx edition. The ultimate in Outback capability and style, the all-new Outback Onyx Edition XT is powered by a 260-horsepower direct-injection turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine. Standard dual-function X-MODE® optimizes the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system for maximum traction on slippery surfaces and lets you choose specific settings for snow, dirt, and mud. The exterior features unique design accents including black-finished alloy wheels, mirrors, and rear badging. Inside, the theme continues with two-tone StarTex® water-repellant upholstery and lime green stitching. It's not only water repellant, but also hard-wearing to stand up to the most rugged expeditions. These seats take the stress out of having a wet or muddy dog after a hike or other adventure. Learn more about the All-New Onyyx Edition XT on our website.
Shop our New Subaru Inventory to find your new Subaru Outback!
