Best Rooftop Cargo Box for a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek

Updated 09/12/2025 | Published 08/16/2025

Question:

What rooftop cargo box would you recommend for a 2020 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid with Thule Aero bars? Planning a long trip and our main concerns are hatch clearance and wind noise. We are thinking 13-14 cubic feet should meet our extra storage needs.

asked by: Les B

Expert Reply:

Hey Les. For your 2020 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, I recommend the Yakima SkyBox NX 16 Roof Cargo Box item # Y95AV. This cargo box will fit perfectly on your Thule roof rack and it only requires 47" of space from the center of the front crossbar to the edge of the rear hatch for clearance.

The Yakima SkyBox NX 16 item # Y95AV measures 75-1/2" long x 35" wide x 16" tall, which has 16 cubic feet of storage. It has a dual-side-opening lid for easy access from both sides of your car. You will need to make sure your crossbars are spread apart between 24" - 36" with the front bar moved as far forward as possible.

Where are you going on your long road trip?

expert reply by: Jerred H

SkyBox NX 16
(click to enlarge)

Jerred H.

9/12/2025

Hey Les, did the Yakima SkyBox NX 16 work out for your Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid in terms of hatch clearance and wind noise? I’d love to hear your experience, as it could help others planning similar trips.

Les B.

9/12/2025

@JerredH, yes it did. Great recommendation. However I did not purchase it from ETrailer. A neighbor had the exact model you recommended in nearly new condition. He wanted to get rid of it (for a larger box on his Ford Explorer) and I bought from him instead. Nevertheless, I appreciate the expert advice and will continue to be a loyal eTrailer customer in the future.