Recommended Roof Rack for 2013 BMW X3 to Transport Thule Force XT

Updated 02/02/2016 | Published 02/01/2016

Products Featured in This Question

Rhino-Rack Vortex Aero Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 49" Long - Qty 2

(2759)

$206.95

Rhino-Rack 2500 Series Legs for Sportz Crossbars - Naked Roofs or Fixed Mounting Points - Qty 4

(8969)

$249.99

Fit Kit for Thule Evo Flush Rail and Edge Flush Rail Roof Rack Feet - 6007

(369)

$159.95

Evo Flush Rail Feet for Thule Crossbars - Flush Side Rails - Qty 4

(243)

$264.95

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Silver - 47" Long - Qty 2

(1280)

$279.95

Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - 47" Long - Qty 2

(1280)

$279.95

Question:

I am about to purchase a 2013 BMW x3. However, I want to make sure I can put storage on top. There appears to be no roof rail. So, my question is does that mean it has NO ROOF RAIL or is that what a FLUSH Rail looks like? If the former, am I correct in assuming I can not mount a thule box on top?

asked by: Rob M

Helpful Expert Reply:

You can definitely mount a Thule box on your vehicle. I can help you figure out which roof rack setup you will need to be able to carry the Thule box on top of your BMW X3.

It sounds like you will have a naked roof on your 2013 BMW X3, but I can get you a roof rack set up so that you will be able to transport that Thule Rooftop Cargo Box # TH6358B.

Rhino Rack offers a roof rack that will fit onto your BMW with the use of clamps in the door frame. The kit is composed of # RRVA126B-2 for the crossbars, # RRRLKVA for the legs, and the # DK295 for the custom clamp kit. This will give you a base for your Thule cargo box to mount to.

Alternatively, if you find that your BMW has the flush rails then I recommend the Thule WingBar Evo system. For this kit you will need the 47 inch WingBars # TH711200 in silver or # TH711220 in black, foot pack # TH710601, and the fit kit # TH186007.

Both systems will be compatible with the crossbar spread needed for the Thule Force XT, # TH6358B, you were looking at.

I have attached a few installation videos of both roof racks being installed so you can get a better idea of the difference roof styles. I have also linked you to all the roof racks that will fit your vehicle depending on which style of roof you have for your convenience.