Car Top Carrier for a 2018 Subaru Outback and a 2013 Subaru Outback

Question:

I am looking for an enclosed car top carrier for my 2018 and 2013 Subaru outback with the standard factory rack on top. Is there a product that will fit

asked by: Steve L

Expert Reply:

Both your 2018 and 2013 Subaru Outback have fairly standard crossbars, so your pick will be more about fitting to both vehicles and being able operate their rear hatch without hitting the box.

To get this clearance, you'll measure from the center of the front bar to the line where your rear hatch meets the roof on both vehicles. To ensure a compatible fit, you'll want to pick boxes that have a required clearance of less than the shortest of the two measurements you took. This required clearance is available on all of our cargo boxes' pages near the bottom.

For an actual box, I recommend looking at Thule's Motion XT line, small, part # TH629706, medium, part # TH629806, or large, part # TH629906. This line offers a lot of capacity and features in a stylish looking package.

The Motion line includes dual side access, a slightly taller than normal shape, and plenty of capacity for your gear up and out of the way. Its PowerClick clamps are also a tool free installation, making transferring the box between your vehicles incredibly easy.

I recommend picking up a wheel step like part # PT68ZR, which adds a temporary step to your wheel, making accessing the center of the box easier.

I've included video reviews of both of these parts so you can get a better idea of their features.