Recommended Roof Rack for a 2020 Toyota RAV4 w/ Flush Roof Rails

Updated 10/15/2026 | Published 10/13/2026

Products Featured in This Question

Inno Aero Roof Rack for Fixed Mounting Points - Aluminum - Black - Qty 2

(2290)

$654.97

Question:

I have a 2020 Toyota RAV4 with flush roof rails. I haul two 17ft sea kayaks and need 50-52 wide overhanging beyond towers cross bars. And I have a moonroof which I would like to use. Thule says with EVO 710601 it is not recommended to open the moonroof. I assume when the bar is installed, it interferes with the moonroof path of travel. What are my options? Do other brands have the same issue. Are there option for a bar that is taller and provides more space for the moonroof. Thanks.

asked by: JIm R

Expert Reply:

There sure is Jim. To add a roof rack to your 2020 Toyota RAV4 with flush roof rails, I recommend the Inno item # IN54DR. This roof rack has 51" long crossbars that have a 165 lbs. When attached to your RAV4's roof rails the bottom of the crossbars sits 3" above the roof. This will allow you to open your moonroof without hitting the front crossbar.

The fixed mounting points on your RAV4 will have the Inno item # IN54DR crossbars spread 33-3/4" apart. The built in channels at the top of the crossbars will allow you to mount a kayak carrier or another accessory directly to them. If you're using an accessory that clamps around the crossbars this will affect the 3" clearance below the bars. The crossbar leg covers have locks to secure them from theft.

What kayak carrier are you going to be using? Feel free to answer this and throw in any other questions you have, where it says Add Comment.

expert reply by: Jerred H

IN54DR
(click to enlarge)

Jim R.

10/13/2026

Hey Jerred, thanks for the info. I have Yakima kayak racks that wrap around the bars, but should take only 1" of that clearance space (under the bar). I think the moonroof only extends up about an inch when fully extended. I am thinking there should be enough space given the 3" clearance. Can I get these with 52" width? Two boats on this roof are pretty wide. Jim

Jerred H.

10/13/2026

@JimR You're welcome! You should have plenty of clearance then but I highly recommend taking a measurement to confirm. You can see on the inside of the flush rails where the mounting points are. The crossbars will sit directly above the center of them. The 51" crossbars on the Inno item # IN54DR are the widest options available. The next size up is the Yakima item # Y52BB that comes with 55" wide HD bars.

James R.

10/13/2026

Just one more question, You mentioned a 3" gap from the roof to the bottom of the cross bars. Is that the greatest distance among the options that etrailer offers for my model vehicle? Is the Yakima system sit lower, closer to the roof? thanks.

Jerred H.

10/15/2026

@JamesR Yes, it is the Inno item # IN54DR have the most clearance between the roof and the bottom of the crossbars.