Will Kuat Varial XL Cargo Box Allow My SUV Rear Hatch to Open

Updated 10/17/2026 | Published 10/13/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Kuat Varial XL Rooftop Cargo Box - 18 cu ft - Bronze Metallic

$1398.00

Kuat Varial XL Rooftop Cargo Box - 18.5 cu ft - Black - Preorder

$1289.00

Question:

I'm looking at the Kuat Varial XL for our SUV, but I'm worried the box will keep the rear hatch from opening all the way. How can I check this before ordering?

asked by: Nathan B

Expert Reply:

Hey Nathan! To check hatch clearance for the Kuat Varial XL # KU27HR (Bronze Metallic) or # KU48CR (Black), open your rear hatch completely and measure from the center of your front crossbar to the closest edge of the open hatch. Keep your tape level across the tops of the crossbars rather than measuring down to the seam where the hatch meets the roof.

With the box in its furthest forward mounting position, I'd allow at least 53-5/16". That accounts for the box extending 51-5/16" behind the front crossbar plus the 2" gap Kuat calls for. Kuat's user guide specifies a crossbar spread of 28-9/16" to 31-7/16", measured center to center. Make sure your mounting positions allow the box to sit that far forward, and confirm you have at least 2" between the box and the fully open hatch once installed.

What SUV do you have and what will you be carrying in your Varial XL?

expert reply by: Robin H

Varial XL Diagram
(click to enlarge)

Nathan

10/17/2026

It's a Toyota Highlander. Mostly carrying luggage and camping gear when we take family trips. I like that we can access the box from the back too.

Robin H.

10/17/2026

@Nathan the rear opening will definitely come in handy when you're loading and unloading camping gear! It's especially nice when you're parked in a tight spot and don't have much room to access the sides of the box. Enjoy your trips!