2021 Volkswagen Tiguan Roof Rack Recommendation

Published 02/01/2022

Products Featured in This Question

Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack - Aero Crossbars - Raised Side Rails - Aluminum - 50" Long - Silver

(1746)

$242.95

Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 4

(775)

$58.95

Thule UpRide Roof Bike Rack - Wheel Mount - Clamp On or Channel Mount - Aluminum

(45)

$335.96

Evo Raised Rail Feet for Thule Crossbars - Factory Raised Rails - Qty 4

(224)

$210.95

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 53" Long - Qty 2

(1277)

$226.76

Question:

Would these crossbars fit with a 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan SE R-Line? Would you advise these to carry a 35-pound mountainbike, or would a more expensive Yakima/Thule rack be better?

asked by: Tim B

Expert Reply:

The Malone AirFlow2 Roof Rack # MPG215 will fit the raised rails on your 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan SE R-Line just fine and they are rated for 165 lbs so they will be sufficient for your 35 lb mountain bike.

This is a cost-effective solution for a roof rack and it really does well for the price-point. With that being said, there is a reason that the Yakima and Thule roof racks are a bit more expensive and it all boils down to the quality and design of the products. I personally really like the Thule WingBar Evo crossbars because they have more of an aerodynamic design and the rubber strip at the top is split so any T-Slot mounted accessories won't require cutting or moving the strip around. If you were to choose to go with this setup you'll need the 53" Crossbars # TH711420 and Evo Raised Rail Feet # TH710401. To lock this system you also need the Lock Kit # TH450400.

I've attached installation videos for both of these roof racks on recent Tiguan models for you to check out.

If you don't already have a bike rack I recommend checking out the Thule UpRide # TH599000 because it allows you to keep the front wheel on your bike and it's really easy to use. I'm attaching a video I shot of this rack on a 2020 Audi Q7 so you can get my thoughts on it here as well.