1. Skoda Superb CombiSkoda Superb Combi Those three words – Skoda, Superb and Combi (Czech car maker speak for estate) – are the simple answer to so many motoring questions (except “what can I get for less than €50,000?” as Skoda’s have become pricier than of old) and for dog lovers, the Superb is just about perfect. The vast 690-litre boot (510 litres if you’re getting the impressive plug-in hybrid with its 100km-plus electric range) is big enough for even those dog owners with a couple of Great Danes to lug around. A Jack Russell would be lost in there. Skoda also sells some helpful doggy accessories, including seat belts for harnesses (a legal requirement if your dog wants to travel on the seat) and panels for dividing the boot from the passenger compartment. This being an estate, the Superb Combi is also much easier for your dog to jump in and out of compared to a taller SUV.2. Peugeot 5008Peugeot 5008 Hybrid If you want an SUV in which to carry your pooch, this is the one to go for. The 5008 – which can be had as a hybrid or a fully electric car (or, due shortly, a plug-in hybrid) has an absolutely huge boot – up to 916 litres depending on how you have it configured. That’s potentially enough room for two dog safety crates, depending on the size you need. Equally, the 5008 is not the tallest SUV in the world, so hopefully you won’t have to raid the accessories catalogue for a ramp so your pet can more easily climb in and out. As far as the human occupants are concerned, the 5008 is also comfortable, pleasant to drive and has a really stylish cabin. Wild Card: VW ID.7 TourerVW ID.7 Tourer We might have included the new VW Passat eHybrid in our list above, and it would have been warranted. But lLet’s consider that you want to go full EV while retaining all that boot space as well. Then its sibling, the ID.7 Tourer, might well be the answer. Here you get even more boot space than the Passat – and it’s even longer than the Superb. Plus it looks fantastic. Compared with crossovers and SUVs, you have the benefit of the lower loading lip, so the dog can jump in easily, or you can load in the crates without too much strain. It claims a range of about 600km and will realistically deliver 450km plus, and it feels confident and comfortable on motorways and around town, though it’s not as engaging on the back roads. Then again, your pet pooch will appreciate the restraint. The Irish Times guide to the best affordable seven-seat family carsThe Irish Times best new car picks for summer 2026 – under €30,000The Irish Times best new car picks for the summer of 2026 – under €25,000Best second-hand first cars for learners and young drivers