Roof Rack Recommended for 2020 Subaru Outback with Retractable Crossbar Roof Rack

Question:

I have the 2020 Subaru Outback. As you probably know, those have the factory installed rails with integrated crossbars. I am looking to upgrade those, and seem to be struggling figuring out what all I need. Can you point in the the right directions with bars, towers, etc?

asked by: Ryan

Expert Reply:

There are lots of options available, and the right choice will depend mainly on your budget and how often you're planning on using them.

As luck would have it, the most popular choice for your vehicle, the Malone AirFlow2, part # MPG216 also happens to be the least expensive. The AirFlow2 rack is very highly rated by our customers. The rack has a 165 lb capacity, and also includes channels in the top of the crossbar for any channel/slot mounted accessories you might have. The crossbars are 3 inches wide by 1 inch tall, so they'll also accommodate just about any accessory that attaches by clamping around the bar. The channel slots in the top of the crossbar feature rubber strips that prevent wind noise but allow you to install accessories without removing them, which is a feature normally found much more expensive roof racks.

If you'll be using the rack frequently, you'll be better suited going with a higher quality WingBar Evo rack from Thule which will fit better and would be better suited for harder use. You'd assemble this rack using the following parts:

• Thule 47 Inch WingBar Evo crossbars, part # TH711200 for silver or # TH711220 for black
• Thule Rapid Podium roof rack feet, part # TH460R
• Vehicle Specific Fit Kit, part # THKIT4063

This rack has a 220 lb capacity which could be limited by the capacity of your roof, so you'll want to check with Subaru if you're wanting to haul something heavy on the roof.