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10 Best Subaru Car Top Carriers 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

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#1

Winner

Thule Motion 3 XXL

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,355
Capacity
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
153 reviews

Capacity
The cargo box offers excellent storage capacity while maintaining a surprisingly low and streamlined profile on the roof.
Mounting System
Installation is straightforward and quick, with the mounting system making it easy to securely attach and remove the box.
Security Features
The lock and latching mechanisms operate smoothly and provide reliable security, enhancing peace of mind during travel.
Aerodynamics
Its aerodynamic design not only looks sleek but also helps reduce wind drag compared to bulkier alternatives.
Dimensions
The box’s dimensions are well-suited for accommodating large suitcases and miscellaneous gear with ample space left over.
Material
Build quality feels premium, with a sturdy aluminum shell that balances durability with a lightweight feel.

The Thule Motion 3 XXL is a large rooftop cargo box designed to add significant storage space for Subaru owners who need extra room on trips. With a volume of 21 cubic feet and generous dimensions (95 x 40.5 x 20 inches), it can hold a lot of gear, making it ideal for family vacations or outdoor adventures. Its aluminum shell is sturdy and weather-resistant, ensuring your items stay protected. The aerodynamic wing-shaped profile helps reduce wind drag, which can improve fuel efficiency compared to bulkier boxes. Mounting the carrier is straightforward thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system that signals when it's securely attached, saving time and effort.

Security is well handled by the SlideLock system, which automatically locks the lid and shows when it’s properly closed, giving peace of mind against theft. The lid design allows easy one-hand operation, and available accessories like interior lights and protective liners add convenience. The box weighs about 40 kilograms, so it may require two people to mount safely. While it fits most vehicles universally, ensure your Subaru’s roof rack can support the box’s size and weight. This carrier is suited for those wanting a reliable, spacious, and aerodynamic solution for their Subaru, especially if ease of mounting and security are priorities.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,355
Capacity
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
153 reviews

Capacity
The cargo box offers excellent storage capacity while maintaining a surprisingly low and streamlined profile on the roof.
Mounting System
Installation is straightforward and quick, with the mounting system making it easy to securely attach and remove the box.
Security Features
The lock and latching mechanisms operate smoothly and provide reliable security, enhancing peace of mind during travel.
Aerodynamics
Its aerodynamic design not only looks sleek but also helps reduce wind drag compared to bulkier alternatives.
Dimensions
The box’s dimensions are well-suited for accommodating large suitcases and miscellaneous gear with ample space left over.
Material
Build quality feels premium, with a sturdy aluminum shell that balances durability with a lightweight feel.
#2

Yakima Rooftop Cargo Carrier, Hard Top Shell Box with SKS Lock, SkyBox NX LG, Black - Heavy-Duty Vehicle Storage Accessories for Travel and Camping

Rating
9.7
Capacity
Mounting System
Dimensions

Most important from
37 reviews

Capacity
Its large capacity is perfect for freeing up substantial interior space on long trips, comfortably holding diverse gear including inflatables, luggage, and outdoor essentials.
Mounting System
The integrated clamps provide a secure fit, and the low profile on cross rails helps minimize wind noise during travel.
Dimensions
The size requires careful measuring to ensure compatibility with your vehicle and roof rack, especially to avoid obstructing rear hatch access.

The Yakima Rooftop Cargo Carrier SkyBox NX LG offers a spacious 16 cubic feet of storage, making it suitable for families or groups needing extra room for camping gear, skis, or snowboards up to 175cm. It measures 75.5" long by 35" wide and 16" high, which fits well on most Subaru roof racks thanks to its universal mounting system. Weighing 46 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for a hard-shell carrier, making it easier to handle during installation and removal. Constructed from durable plastic with a sleek NX nano-texture finish, this hard shell is designed to resist weather and keep your belongings dry and protected. The dual-sided opening is a practical feature, allowing access from either side of the vehicle for easier loading and unloading, especially in tight parking spots.

Security-wise, it includes a full metal handle that locks both the box and the gear inside, offering peace of mind during travel. While it is water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof, so extremely wet conditions might require extra caution. The streamlined shape helps reduce wind drag and noise, though being a larger box, it will still somewhat affect fuel efficiency. This box is a reliable option for Subaru owners needing secure and convenient extra storage for outdoor trips, though those seeking the lightest or smallest option might consider other models.

Rating
9.7
Capacity
Mounting System
Dimensions

Most important from
37 reviews

Capacity
Its large capacity is perfect for freeing up substantial interior space on long trips, comfortably holding diverse gear including inflatables, luggage, and outdoor essentials.
Mounting System
The integrated clamps provide a secure fit, and the low profile on cross rails helps minimize wind noise during travel.
Dimensions
The size requires careful measuring to ensure compatibility with your vehicle and roof rack, especially to avoid obstructing rear hatch access.
#3

Thule Motion 3 LTitan

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
153 reviews

Capacity
Fits like a glove and provides plenty of space for full-sized suitcases and other items.
Mounting System
Installation is a breeze, taking less than 10 minutes.
Security Features
The lock and latching mechanism make opening and closing the box a breeze, feeling much smoother than older models.

The Thule Motion 3 LTitan is designed for those in need of a robust and efficient rooftop cargo carrier, particularly for Subaru vehicle owners. One of its standout features is the wing-shaped profile that minimizes drag, enhancing fuel efficiency while you're on the road. This can be a significant advantage for long trips where fuel economy is a concern. The solid lid design with a wide handle facilitates easy one-handed operation, making it user-friendly when loading and unloading your gear.

Mounting is another strong point, thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system. The integrated torque indicator ensures that the carrier is securely attached, which is reassuring for safety-conscious users. Furthermore, the SlideLock system adds an extra layer of security by locking the lid in place and indicating when it's closed securely.

In terms of capacity, the carrier has a generous volume of 450 liters, making it suitable for various types of gear, from camping supplies to sports equipment. It’s essential to consider its weight of 24.04 kilograms, which might be a bit heavy for some users to lift onto their roof racks. While the Thule Motion 3 LTitan is water-resistant, it may not be completely waterproof, which could be a concern for users in extremely wet conditions. Additionally, the price point might be higher compared to other options on the market, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers. Buyers should verify compatibility with their specific Subaru model when making a decision.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
153 reviews

Capacity
Fits like a glove and provides plenty of space for full-sized suitcases and other items.
Mounting System
Installation is a breeze, taking less than 10 minutes.
Security Features
The lock and latching mechanism make opening and closing the box a breeze, feeling much smoother than older models.

Buying Guide for the Best Subaru Car Top Carriers

Choosing the right top carrier for your Subaru car can significantly enhance your travel experience by providing extra storage space for your gear, luggage, or sports equipment. To make the best choice, you need to consider several key specifications that will ensure the carrier meets your needs and fits your vehicle properly. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting a top carrier for your Subaru car.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of storage space the top carrier provides, usually measured in cubic feet or liters. This spec is important because it determines how much you can carry. If you often travel with a lot of gear or have a large family, you might need a larger capacity carrier, typically over 15 cubic feet. For occasional use or smaller loads, a carrier with 8-12 cubic feet might suffice. Consider your typical travel needs and choose a capacity that will comfortably fit your belongings without overloading your vehicle.
DimensionsThe dimensions of the top carrier are crucial to ensure it fits your Subaru car and doesn't interfere with your driving. This includes the length, width, and height of the carrier. Larger carriers might offer more space but can also affect your car's aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Measure the roof of your Subaru and compare it with the carrier's dimensions to ensure a proper fit. If you have a smaller car or need to park in tight spaces, a more compact carrier might be a better choice.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity indicates the maximum weight the top carrier can safely hold. This is important to prevent overloading, which can affect your car's handling and safety. Carriers typically range from 100 to 200 pounds in weight capacity. Consider the weight of the items you plan to carry and choose a carrier that can handle that load. Always check your Subaru's roof weight limit as well to ensure you don't exceed it.
MaterialTop carriers are made from various materials, including hard-shell plastic, soft fabric, and metal. The material affects the carrier's durability, weather resistance, and security. Hard-shell carriers are more durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for long trips and harsh conditions. Soft carriers are lighter and easier to store when not in use but may not offer the same level of protection. Choose a material based on your typical usage and the weather conditions you expect to encounter.
Mounting SystemThe mounting system is how the top carrier attaches to your Subaru's roof. This can include roof racks, crossbars, or direct mounting systems. It's important because it affects the ease of installation and the stability of the carrier. Ensure that the carrier is compatible with your car's existing roof setup. If you don't have a roof rack or crossbars, you might need to purchase them separately. Look for a mounting system that is easy to use and provides a secure fit.
AerodynamicsAerodynamics refers to how the shape of the top carrier affects air flow around your car. This is important because it can impact your fuel efficiency and driving noise. Aerodynamic carriers are designed to reduce drag, which can help maintain better fuel economy and reduce wind noise. If you plan to use the carrier frequently or for long trips, an aerodynamic design can be beneficial. Consider the shape and design of the carrier and how it will affect your driving experience.
Security FeaturesSecurity features include locks and other mechanisms that protect your belongings from theft. This is important for peace of mind, especially if you leave your car unattended. Look for carriers with built-in locks or the ability to add your own locks. Some carriers also offer additional security features like reinforced materials or tamper-proof designs. Choose a carrier with security features that match your needs, especially if you plan to carry valuable items.

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