Rooftop Cargo Carrier Options for 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport With No Roof Rack

Question:

I have a 2012 Mitsubisi outlander sport w/ no roof rack, bare roof. I would to put a lugage carrier on top of my car. Which item do you recommend?

asked by: Ray

Expert Reply:

Your options for transporting rooftop cargo on your 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport with no roof rack include soft cargo bags that do not require a roof rack as well as metal cargo baskets and plastic cargo boxes that do require a roof rack. The size and weight of the cargo you need to carry may help you determine which option is best. The linked article will help you evaluate all options.

Soft fabric cargo bags such as the waterproof 18-cubic-foot Rightline Sport 3 XL Rooftop Cargo Bag # RL100S30 are cost-effective and lightweight, which means that more of your vehicle's roof weight carrying capacity is available for your belongings. This bag mounts to your Outlander without need for a rack. A video on this item is provided.

If you prefer a metal cargo basket or plastic cargo box you will need a roof rack. The link provided will let you see all roof racks offered for your Outlander Sport with flush side rails. For example, Thule offers their WingBar Podium Rack System consisting of parts # TH711200, # TH460R and # THKIT3093.

On this rack you can install any of a number of Thule's plastic cargo boxes, but note that the largest of these may contact your rear hatch when it is open. You can measure from the front rack crossbar back to the edge of the roof (where it meets the hatch) to determine which boxes will mount without interference with the hatch.

expert reply by: Adam R