Is Thule Atlantis 1600 XT Cargo Box Compatible with Aero-Style Bars on a 2018 BMW X3
Updated 08/19/2025 | Published 01/05/2019
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Question:
I have a new 2018 BMW X3 replacing a 2006 model. I have a square bar Thule roof rack system and a bike carrier with it. I understand I will need a new foot pack to use this old system, correct? What I am wondering is if I wanted a newer aerodynamic bar system would my Thule cargo box fit on those new crossbars? What about fitting the Atlantis 1600 XT on a standard BMW crossbar system? They seem to be available for a lot less money than a Thule crossbar system. I understand that switching to aerodynamic bars which would be nice for reduced road noise would make my old bike rack obsolete. Thanks
asked by: Jerry A
Expert Reply:
Yes, you will need a new foot pack and fit kit for the aero-style bars on your 2006 BMW X3. This is due to a recent upgrade that Thule went through with their roof racks.
According to Thule the Atlantis 1600 XT uses the Quick Grip Mount Assembly # TH05738 so your cargo box would be compatible with Aero-style crossbars. The Atlantis 1600 XT should fit both the BMW OEM crossbar system as well as the Thule AeroBlade roof rack. I wasn't able to find specifics for the BMW system but the Thule system, which includes the 47" WingBar Evo Bars # TH711200, Foot Pack # TH710601, and Fit Kit # TH186007, has a max weight rating of 165 lbs and a crossbar spread of 27.5".
To add locks to either Thule roof rack you can use the One-Key System # TH450400. The perk of using a Thule roof rack with Thule accessories is that you can use the same key system for everything. If you were to go with a Thule roof rack system then you can search "THLOCKNXXX" on our site (with X being your current lock core number) so that you can use 1 key to lock/unlock everything.
Attached are some review videos for you to reference as well.
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Thule WingBar Evo Crossbars - Aluminum - Silver - 47" Long - Qty 2
- Accessories and Parts
- Roof Rack
- Crossbars
- 47 Inch Bar Space
- Aero Bars
- 2 Bars
- Thule
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Randy
8/19/2025
Wrong I have the Thule Atlantis 1600- I swapped it over cars with aero and round bars, in fact the aero bars work better