Thule Motion Rooftop Cargo Box Fit for 2014 Subaru Outback Wagon

Published 11/30/2018

Question:

Jason, thanks so much for the information and quick response as I really appreciate it. Our Subaru dealer recommended the Thule Force Cargo Carrier series. Can you tell me the difference in the Thule Force Series and the Thule Motion Series cargo carriers.

asked by: Rick B

Expert Reply:

To determine the best Thule Motion cargo box for your 2014 Subaru Outback, you will want to measure from the center of the front crossbar to the seam where the hatch meets the roof. That distance will determine the larges box you can use and not have hatch interference. I've attached a photo to assist.

The Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box - 16 cu ft # TH629706 requires 47-1/2 inches
The Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box - 18 cu ft # TH629806 requires 51-1/4 inches
The Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Box - 22 cu ft # TH629906 requires 55 inches

I've attached a video of the Thule Pulse Alpine # TH613 to show you the compatibility on your vehicle with the 55-1/4 inch requirement where you can see there is some hatch interference. So based on that, I believe the # TH6298B will be the largest Motion box that will fit.

expert reply by: Jason S

click to enlarge

Rick

11/30/2018

Jason S.

11/30/2018

No problem. The Momentum is the newest box offered by Thule and the Force was the model released prior. Both are very good boxes and the appearance is the biggest difference. Thule changed the look of the box to better assimilate to the modern lines and look less like an add on as well as differentiate from other manufacturers. The Force XT # TH6358B is the most common and requires 47-1/2 inches from that front crossbar to the hatch seam. It uses the same style mount as the Motion series. The biggest difference is the look and the lock system. The Force uses a hand knob on the lock cylinder where the Motion uses the lock and a separate hand latch. You can see these differences in the attached videos.