Comparing Yakima Skybox With Thule Sonic Rooftop Cargo Box On 2016 Subaru Outback

Question:

Hi, Im looking to buy the Yakima Skyline rack System with 50 inch core bar soon. I want to know witch is the best box between Yakima Skybox and Thule Sonic model Pros and Cons What is the bigger box that can fit my Subaru Outback 2016 without hitting the rear hatch when fully open Thule Sonic XL or XXL and Yakima Skybox 18 or 21? I whould like to buy only 1 brand kit but if Yakima make better rack system and Thule better box I will buy separate brand. Im looking to get the Thule T2 Pro this spring I want to know other good platforf hitch bike rack that you recommand to me. I want to figure all my equipements on my vehicule before buying something haha. Thanks guys!

asked by: Sébastien

Expert Reply:

I'll give you a comparison of the Yakima SkyBox 18 Rooftop Cargo Box - 18 cu ft - Black Carbonite, # Y07336, and the Thule Sonic XL Rooftop Cargo Box - 17 cu ft.

These roof mounted cargo boxes are more similar than different. The obvious size difference only adds inches to the overall length and height. Both carriers have the aerodynamic design with strong ABS plactic, integrated locks, and internal anchor points. They fit the same variety of crossbars with only 3/8 of an inch difference on minimum crossbar spread, but the Yakima box can fit a 6.5 inch longer crossbar spread. The only difference that I notice is that we have more replacement latches asked for with Yakima than with Thule.

I've attached a help article on fit and how to measure for your 2016 Subaru Outback.

For your roof rack the Yakima Skyline with 50 inch core bars is a great choice. The system consists of Yakima CoreBar Crossbars - Steel - Black - 50" Long - Qty 2, # Y00421.
SkyLine Towers for Yakima Crossbars - Fixed Mounting Points, Flush Rails, and Track Systems - Qty 4, # Y53TR.
Landing Pad 15 for Yakima Control Towers - Qty 4, # Y00241.
This roof rack system will meet your needs and will give you a great system for either Cargo Box.

The Thule T2 Pro XTR 2 Bike Platform Rack - 2" Hitches - Tilting # TH83JV is one of my favorite racks. It is really well made and is very diverse in the style of bikes it can handle. It is a very secure rack that is adjustable and can even be expanded to 4 bikes if desired.