Recommended Max Capacity Rooftop Cargo Box for a 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon

Updated 06/22/2017 | Published 06/21/2017

Question:

I am trying to determine the largest capacity roof box, from both Thule and Yakima, which would allow the rear hatch door to open fully. I have read the information available on the web site, including the comment to take the sizing charts with a grain of salt. I am hoping the experts at Etrailer and Subaru will provide an answer with some degree of certainty as I uncertain of a correct product. I am interested in the +/- $500-$600 range. The dimension from center of the front crossbar to the separation line between the roof and the top of the hatch is approximately 51 inches. Thank you

asked by: Ed

Expert Reply:

Thank you for all of the information, it is always very helpful to be able to narrow things down quickly.

The rooftop cargo box that best fits your description is the Thule Pulse Large Rooftop Cargo Box # TH615. This cargo box is 16 cu ft and comes in Matte Black. Since the clearance measurement is 46-3/8 inches you will have more than enough room for rear hatch clearance on your 2016 Subaru Outback Wagon. The Pulse only allows access from the passenger side of the vehicle. It also has a weight capacity of 110 lbs and sits at the lower end of your price range. This will fit crossbar spread ranging from 23-5/8 to 34-3/8 inches.

The only other option that is bigger comes from Thule as well. The Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box # TH629806 is 18 cu ft so you will be getting a little more room, but the downfall is that it is slightly over your price point. The Motion XT will allow you to open your rear hatch fully as long as the measurement from the middle of the front crossbar to the line where your roof and hatch meet is over 51-1/4 inches. The great thing about the Motion XT is that it has a very aerodynamic sleek look that goes well with a lot of the newer styles of vehicles. It also can be accessed from either side of the box. This has been confirmed by Thule to fit your Outback Wagon.

The Yakima choices were either too long or out of the ones that fit you would get more room for the same price point from Thule.

expert reply by: Jon G