Cargo Carrier Recommendation for a 2012 VW Jetta Sportswagen

Question:

Thanks Bob. I think we'll probably look more closely at roof-top options. I have raised factory parallel rails but also have the panoramic sunroof on our Jetta. This sunroof runs over the first and second row of seats. One concern about a roof-mounted storage option is whether the sun roof could open with the crossbars installed? I’m guessing there won’t be enough clearance. And we probably want to keep any storage options off the vehicle and resting on crossbars, etc. So a roofbag doesn’t sound all that appealing to me.

asked by: Gregg

Expert Reply:

At this time Class I trailer hitches are the only options available for the 2012 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen. Most likely, because of the frame on the Jetta, there will not be a Class II option made available for this vehicle.

The only cargo carriers we have available for Class I hitches at this time are the open style carriers, see link.

I recommend the Curt Trailer Hitch, # C11474, to carry a cargo carrier behind your 2012 Jetta Sportwagen.

For your Class I trailer hitch receiver, We have three great options:

The 17 X 46 Curt Cargo Carrier # C18145 has side rails and an open-floor design that will prevent grime buildup. It would be best for carrier larger items that would not fall through the slats. This carrier weighs 28 pounds.

The 19X 47 Curt Carrier # C18110. It does not have side rails but includes an easy clean mesh floor. This carrier has an angled 3-3/4" rise shank to help with ground clearance. This carrier weighs 30 pounds.

Finally, the 20 X 47 Reese Carrier # 63155 has side rails and a mesh floor. This one has a shank rise of 3". This carrier weighs 44 pounds.

All of of these carriers have rugged steel construction.

expert reply by: Robert G

click to enlarge

Gregg

4/25/2012

Bob G.

4/25/2012

You are correct, a bag would rest on the roof and prevent the use of the sunroof, even if it were attached to crossbars. Your next option is to add cross bars and a roof mounted box. I added a link to a question and answer about the sunroof on a 2010 Sportwagen that one of my co-workers answered. If you follow the directions for checking to see if the cross bars will interfere with the sun roof and then add 1-1/4 inches for the thickness of the cross bars in the Rhino Rack roof rack # JA7973 you should be able to determine if you can use a roof box. When checking the cross bars keep in mind that installation of the box requires the cross bar spread to be between 24-1/4 inch and 36-1/2 inch.