Rooftop Cargo Carrier Options for 2013 Kia Soul

Updated 08/29/2014 | Published 08/28/2014

Question:

My daughter is looking for a basket carrier for her car, she drives all over and needs the extra space she drives a 2013 Kia Soul what do you suggest.

asked by: Floy P

Expert Reply:

We can offer several different options for cargo transport on your daughter's 2013 Kia Soul. The best option will depend on how the vehicle is equipped. For instance does it have a hitch or a roof rack already installed?

The cargo carrier you referenced, part # M2205 from CarPod, is a hitch-mount type carrier that will fit only a 2-inch hitch. The Soul cannot be equipped with a 2-inch hitch, only with a light-duty 1-1/4-inch Class I hitch such as one of those shown on the link at right. I recommend the Draw-Tite # 24839. With this Class I hitch you can use any of the Class I cargo carriers shown on the link provided.

When using a hitch carrier your loaded cargo's weight plus the weight of the carrier itself combined cannot exceed the 200-lb tongue weight capacity of the hitch. The vehicle owner's manual should also be consulted for any limitations as to tongue weight. If the car is rated lower than the hitch, then the lower rating becomes the overall weight limit.

You also have the option of using a rooftop cargo bag such as the Rightline # RL100S30. These are great for larger light-weight items like clothing and we offer bags that can mount without the need for any type of roof rack. I have included a link to our page for all weather-proof fabric rooftop bags that can attach to a bare roof. Again the Soul owner's manual should be checked for any limits on rooftop cargo weight.

If a roof rack is of interest please let me know the type of roof on the Soul and I will be glad to offer a recommendation.

expert reply by: Adam R