How to Determine if 2022 Volkswagen Taos Glass Roof Can be Opened with Roof Rack Installed

Question:

2022 Volkswagen Taos SEL with panoramic roof. Factory side raised rails. RRVA126B-2,RRSX022 Im curious about clearance for the panoramic sunroof and if it can be opened while the crossbars are in place. Thanks.

asked by: Jon

Expert Reply:

When we installed the Rhino-Rack Vortex System, parts # RRVA126B-2 and # RRSX022, on a 2022 Volkswagen Taos with raised rails we found the clearance from the roof to the bottom of the crossbars to be 1-3/4". This isn't a ton of space but from my experience glass roof systems don't tend to raise up very much so you may still be able to open up the panoramic roof with this roof rack installed.

It's always worth noting that opening up a glass roof with a roof rack installed will alter the way the wind reacts around the vehicle so while the aero-style crossbars are great for cutting down on wind noise and drag (compared to round and square crossbars) you may still get some whistling if that window is opened.

Attached is the installation video I referred to above. If you jump to the 1:45 minute mark you'll see us taking that measurement for clearance.

expert reply by: Jon G