Roof Rack Options for 2017 BMW X5

Question:

I just purchased a 2017 bmw x5 that i occasionally 2-4 times/yr will need a roof rack for. One of my last vehicles was a 2003 Land Rover Discovery that I have a Thule roof rack square bars, drip rail foot pads/clamps and round adjusting knobs that is in great shape, particularly the bars. Is there a foot pack available that will allow me to reuse the steel bars from the Thule rack for my new X5?

asked by: Michael L

Helpful Expert Reply:

Awhile back Thule reconfigured their square-bar roof racks, so the older feet and crossbars wouldn't be compatible with any of the clamp kits they offer today. However, we can still come up with a solution for you.

BMW offered 3 different roof configurations for the X5 for the 2015 model year. It'll either have a bare roof, raised rails that run front to back along the edge of the roof or flush mounted rails along each edge.

If you have the raised rails, Malone # MPG202 that you've already looked at would be a great, budget-friendly alternative.

For flush mounted rails, Rhino Rack offers a roof rack that can be constructed using:
Vortex Aero Crossbars, part # RRVA137B-2
Roof Rack Feet, part # RRSX026

For a bare roof, Rhino offers the most cost-effective option constructed of:
Vortex Aero Crossbars, part # RRVA137B-2
Roof Rack Feet, part # RRRLKVA
Vehicle specific clamp kit, part # DK062