Recommended Roof Rack for a 2016 VW Touareg w/ Raised Roof Rails

Updated 11/12/2023 | Published 11/11/2023

Products Featured in This Question

Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders - Qty 4

(756)

$74.95

Thule WingBar Edge Crossbars - Aluminum - Black - Qty 2

(62)

$289.90

Edge Raised Rail Feet for Thule Edge Crossbars - Raised, Factory Side Rails - Qty 4

(9)

$359.95

Question:

Hello - I have a 2016 VW Touareg, and can either use the Thule Aero Blade Edge or WingBar Edge. Whats the difference between Aero Blade Edge and WingBar Edge? tia,

asked by: Marc H

Helpful Expert Reply:

The Thule AeroBlade Edge Roof Rack item # TH7503B-TH7503B is a one piece system that uses rubber-coated stainless steel straps to attach the crossbars to the raised roof rails on your 2016 VW Touareg. This is as low profile of an aftermarket roof rack as you can get. They measure 36" long x 3-1/8" wide x 1-1/8" tall and have a usable crossbar space of 30" - 34".

The Thule WingBar Edge Crossbars item # TH36FE in black or item # TH73RE in silver use the Edge Raised Rail Feet item # TH69SC to attach to the raised rails. Attaching it this way makes them sit higher then the AeroBlade Edge set up. The longer bar measures 37-1/2" long x 3-1/8" wide x 1" tall and the shorter bar measures 34" long x 3-1/8" wide x 1" tall.

Both systems have an identical 165 lbs capacity and neither one of them include locks. I recommend using the Thule AeroBlade Edge Roof Rack item # TH7503B-TH7503B and securing it to your VW's roof using the Thule One-Key System Lock Cylinders item # TH450400.

expert reply by: Jerred H