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10 Best Subaru Car Top Carriers 2026 in the United States

#1

Winner

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Thule Force 3 L US

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,304
Mounting System
Security Features
Aerodynamics

Most important from
40 reviews

Mounting System
The innovative claw clasp mounting system is far superior to traditional u-bolts, making frequent mounting and unmounting hassle-free.
Security Features
The secure locking mechanism clicks three times to confirm the box is tightly locked, providing excellent peace of mind.
Aerodynamics
Its aerodynamic design keeps the carrier looking sleek and prevents it from appearing bulky on top of the car.
Capacity
The cargo box feels surprisingly light for its size, easing handling despite its large capacity.
Weight Capacity
This model supports up to around 150 lbs of cargo, offering more flexibility for families or active lifestyles.

The Thule Force 3 L US rooftop cargo box is a solid choice for Subaru owners or anyone needing extra storage space on their vehicle. With a roomy 16 cubic feet capacity, it offers ample space for luggage, sports gear, or camping equipment. Its dimensions (80" long, 18" wide, and 38" high) are designed to fit well on most vehicles without being too bulky. Made from durable plastic, the box is built to handle daily use and resist weather, being water-resistant to protect your items inside.

The mounting system is particularly user-friendly, featuring a quick and secure mechanism that lets you know with a click when the box is safely attached, which is great for peace of mind on the road. Convenience is enhanced by access from both sides, so loading and unloading is easier no matter the parking situation. The box’s aerodynamic design helps reduce wind noise and drag, which can improve fuel efficiency compared to less streamlined carriers.

Security is addressed with the SlideLock system, which automatically locks the lid and clearly indicates when it’s securely closed, helping keep your belongings safe. Although the product does not specify an exact weight capacity, Thule’s reputation suggests it can handle typical cargo loads safely. Some users might find the size somewhat large if they only need minimal extra space, and the plastic shell, while tough, may not have the premium feel of higher-end materials. The Thule Force 3 L successfully balances durability, ease of use, and security, making it a dependable option for active lifestyles and everyday adventures.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,304
Mounting System
Security Features
Aerodynamics

Most important from
40 reviews

Mounting System
The innovative claw clasp mounting system is far superior to traditional u-bolts, making frequent mounting and unmounting hassle-free.
Security Features
The secure locking mechanism clicks three times to confirm the box is tightly locked, providing excellent peace of mind.
Aerodynamics
Its aerodynamic design keeps the carrier looking sleek and prevents it from appearing bulky on top of the car.
Capacity
The cargo box feels surprisingly light for its size, easing handling despite its large capacity.
Weight Capacity
This model supports up to around 150 lbs of cargo, offering more flexibility for families or active lifestyles.
#2

Thule Motion 3 XL

Rating
9.7
Capacity
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
189 reviews

Capacity
The cargo box offers impressive storage capacity, easily accommodating multiple suitcases and bulky items without compromising interior space.
Mounting System
Installation is quick and straightforward, often taking less than 10 minutes, with a secure and solid fit that inspires confidence even at highway speeds.
Security Features
The locking and latching mechanism operates smoothly and feels noticeably higher quality compared to other brands.
Aerodynamics
Its aerodynamic design and fit allow the vehicle to maintain good fuel efficiency, especially when paired with a compatible wind deflector.

The Thule Motion 3 XL is a well-designed roof cargo box that offers 18 cubic feet of storage space, making it a solid choice for Subaru owners who need extra room for gear on trips. Its wing-shaped, forward-leaning nose helps reduce wind drag, which can improve your fuel efficiency compared to less aerodynamic carriers. Made from lightweight aluminum, it weighs just 8 pounds, so it won't add too much extra weight to your vehicle. Mounting the box is straightforward thanks to the PowerClick quick-mount system, which signals when the box is securely attached, saving you time and effort.

The SlideLock system keeps your belongings safe by automatically locking the lid and letting you know when it’s closed properly. The box is designed with convenience in mind, featuring a sturdy lid and a wide handle that allows smooth one-handed opening and closing. While it offers several useful accessories like an interior light and protective liner, one downside is that it is not water-resistant, so it may not fully protect your items in heavy rain or extreme weather. Also, the narrow width (18 inches) means it might not fit larger items as easily as wider models.

This rooftop carrier represents a great option for Subaru drivers looking for a secure, easy-to-use, and aerodynamic box for their outdoor or travel needs, especially if you prioritize quick setup and good locking features.

Rating
9.7
Capacity
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
189 reviews

Capacity
The cargo box offers impressive storage capacity, easily accommodating multiple suitcases and bulky items without compromising interior space.
Mounting System
Installation is quick and straightforward, often taking less than 10 minutes, with a secure and solid fit that inspires confidence even at highway speeds.
Security Features
The locking and latching mechanism operates smoothly and feels noticeably higher quality compared to other brands.
Aerodynamics
Its aerodynamic design and fit allow the vehicle to maintain good fuel efficiency, especially when paired with a compatible wind deflector.
#3

WEIZE 54" x 34" Heavy Duty Roof Rack Basket, 200LBS Universal Rooftop Cargo Basket with Waterproof Bag, Cargo Net & Tie Down Straps, Steel Luggage Holder for Car SUV Truck

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Aerodynamics

Most important from
1769 reviews

Capacity
The storage bag holds a substantial amount of items and remains secure during transit.
Aerodynamics
The roof rack covers the entire width of the vehicle without causing any noise or rattles when installed correctly.

The WEIZE 54" x 34" Heavy Duty Roof Rack is a versatile and robust option for those needing extra storage on their Subaru vehicles. It provides adjustable storage space, with dimensions of 35x34x6 inches or 54x34x6 inches, accommodating various car types such as SUVs and MPVs. The roof rack's tubular steel construction is both lightweight and strong, supporting up to 200 lbs of cargo. This makes it ideal for carrying gear, luggage, or storage boxes on long trips or outdoor adventures.

The rack features a sleek fairing that helps reduce drag and noise, though additional rustproofing with truck bedliner paint is recommended for longevity, especially if stored outdoors. The mounting system is user-friendly, utilizing 4 U-bolts and universal hardware to secure it onto most roof-rack crossbars, making installation straightforward. The included waterproof cargo bag, cargo net, and tie-down straps add significant value by ensuring your items stay protected and secure during transit.

Users should verify their vehicle's crossbar dimensions to ensure compatibility. The rack's aerodynamics are satisfactory, thanks to the fairing, but it could still contribute to some wind noise and drag. Security features are not specifically detailed beyond the tie-down straps and net, so additional security measures may be needed depending on your cargo.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Aerodynamics

Most important from
1769 reviews

Capacity
The storage bag holds a substantial amount of items and remains secure during transit.
Aerodynamics
The roof rack covers the entire width of the vehicle without causing any noise or rattles when installed correctly.

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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