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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 Motion 3 XL

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,192
Capacity
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
185 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
10.0
Chosen by1,192
Capacity
Mounting System
Security Features

Most important from
185 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.
#2

Thule Force 3 XL US

Rating
9.7
Mounting System
Capacity
Weight Capacity

Most important from
26 reviews

Mounting System
The claw clasp mounting system is a game changer compared to traditional u-bolts, offering quick and secure attachment that’s perfect for frequent use.
Capacity
The cargo box offers excellent capacity without looking bulky, maintaining a stylish profile on top of the car.
Weight Capacity
This rooftop carrier supports a higher max cargo weight, providing extra flexibility for larger families or heavier gear.
Material
The product’s durability and design improvements over older models make it a worthwhile investment for long-term use.

The Thule Force 3 XL US is a spacious rooftop cargo box offering 18 cubic feet of storage, making it an excellent choice for Subaru owners who need extra room for gear during trips or active lifestyles. Its dimensions (89" long, 18" wide, 40" high) provide ample space without being overly bulky, fitting well on most Subaru models with roof rails. Weighing 66 pounds, the box is fairly heavy but sturdy, constructed from durable plastic designed to resist weather and daily wear.

The mounting system is user-friendly and secure, featuring a quick-click indicator to confirm when the box is properly attached, adding peace of mind on the road. Accessibility is enhanced by dual-side openings, allowing convenient loading and unloading from either side of the vehicle. The aerodynamic design helps reduce wind resistance and noise, although the larger size might still have some impact on fuel efficiency during longer drives. Security is addressed with the SlideLock system that automatically locks the lid and shows when the box is closed tightly, helping keep belongings safe.

While the box is water-resistant, it may not be fully waterproof in heavy rain. Its limited lifetime warranty reflects Thule’s confidence in the product’s durability. This carrier balances strong capacity and ease of use but is a bit heavy and might slightly affect fuel economy, making it especially suitable for those who frequently need reliable extra storage on their Subaru.

Rating
9.7
Mounting System
Capacity
Weight Capacity

Most important from
26 reviews

Mounting System
The claw clasp mounting system is a game changer compared to traditional u-bolts, offering quick and secure attachment that’s perfect for frequent use.
Capacity
The cargo box offers excellent capacity without looking bulky, maintaining a stylish profile on top of the car.
Weight Capacity
This rooftop carrier supports a higher max cargo weight, providing extra flexibility for larger families or heavier gear.
Material
The product’s durability and design improvements over older models make it a worthwhile investment for long-term use.
#3

FIVKLEMNZ 30 Cubic Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier Roof Bag Waterproof for All Top of Vehicle with/Without Rack Includes Topper Anti-Slip Mat + Reinforced Straps + 6 Door Hooks + Luggage Lock

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Material
Mounting System

Most important from
8695 reviews

Capacity
The carrier offers ample space, allowing for comfortable seating and increased luggage capacity.
Material
Highly durable and waterproof, perfect for long road trips and adverse weather.
Mounting System
Installation is straightforward, even without a roof rack, making it versatile for various car models.
Aerodynamics
Holds up incredibly well on long trips, even through rough weather conditions.
Security Features
The lock provides peace of mind, ensuring the zipper stays shut during travel.

The FIVKLEMNZ Car Rooftop Cargo Carrier is a spacious and practical solution for anyone needing extra storage on their vehicle. With a generous 30 cubic feet capacity, it can hold a significant amount of luggage, freeing up space inside the car for a more comfortable trip. The dimensions (60 x 43 x 20 inches) ensure that you can fit large items like suitcases, tents, and sleeping bags.

It uses 10 reinforced adjustable straps and an anti-slip mat to keep the bag securely in place, even at high speeds or on bumpy roads. Additionally, the included security lock offers peace of mind by preventing theft. Made from 700D Oxford cloth, this rooftop carrier is designed to be 100% waterproof, with heat-welded seams and a genuine waterproof zipper, making it ideal for use in extreme weather conditions.

Installation is straightforward, particularly for trucks and SUVs, and it can be mounted even without roof side rails using the provided door hooks. However, it's important to note that this is a soft carrier, so the front and back straps should not be attached to the side bars to avoid tearing over time. At 5.44 kilograms (11.97 pounds), the carrier is relatively lightweight and easy to handle. This product is best suited for those who need a flexible and spacious cargo solution for their Subaru or similar-sized vehicles, and who prioritize easy installation and waterproof features.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Material
Mounting System

Most important from
8695 reviews

Capacity
The carrier offers ample space, allowing for comfortable seating and increased luggage capacity.
Material
Highly durable and waterproof, perfect for long road trips and adverse weather.
Mounting System
Installation is straightforward, even without a roof rack, making it versatile for various car models.
Aerodynamics
Holds up incredibly well on long trips, even through rough weather conditions.
Security Features
The lock provides peace of mind, ensuring the zipper stays shut during travel.

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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