Availability of Thule Rooftop Cargo Box for Factory Crossbars on 2015 Subaru Outback Premium 2.5i

Question:

Hi, I own a Subaru Outback 2015 Premium 2.5i that comes with factory installed integrated cross bars that are retractable when not in use. Are there any Thule roof boxes that are compatible with this model?

asked by: Katherine H

Expert Reply:

Thule offers a whole range of rooftop cargo boxes that are compatible with factory-installed crossbars on vehicles like you 2015 Subaru Outback Premium 2.5i. The linked page will let you see all such Thule products and the filters on the page allow you to sort the products shown based on your preferences for box size, color and single- or dual-side opening.

For a popular size box Thule offers their Force Medium # TH6356B that you referenced which offers 11-cubic-foot and 110-lb cargo capacities. This fits your bars as long as they can be spaced apart at least 23-5/8-inches (measured center to center) and no more than 35-3/8-inches center to center.

The linked diagram will help you select a box that will allow full rear hatch opening. You'll want to have your front crossbar as far forward as it will go and then measure from its center to the seam where the roof and hatch meet. The right-hand column in the diagram shows you the clearance required by each box for it to clear your opened hatch without interference.

You'll want to consult your Subaru owner's manual or dealership for the car's roof weight-bearing capacity before you load any cargo. Keep in mind that the weight of the cargo box itself (35-lbs for the Force Medium and 63-lbs for the Sonic XXL) counts against your roof capacity. So for example if your manual states that the roof rack can handle 125-lbs, then you need to subtract the cargo box's weight from that to know how much actual cargo weight you can safely load. In this example of the Force Medium, you'd have a remaining cargo capacity of 125 - 35 = 90-lbs of cargo. Videos for both boxes are linked for you.

Often cargo box users choose a tire step like # HE4040 for easier loading an unloading. This simple item comes fully-assembled and simply slips over a rear tire to give you improved access for loading and unloading your cargo. Another step option that is very cost-effective is the Telesteps folding step # TE97FR.