Best Cargo Box For Subaru In 2023
For Subaru owners, the adventure often extends beyond the confines of the vehicle. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an extended road trip, having adequate storage space is paramount. That’s where cargo boxes come into play. But with countless options available, which one is the ideal fit for your Subaru? This curated guide dives into the best cargo box choices specifically designed for Subaru vehicles, ensuring a perfect match for functionality, aesthetics, and aerodynamics.
OVERVIEW
Roof boxes that are universally compatible with all Subaru Impreza models are hard to come by because of the variety of body designs available for this vehicle. The Subaru Impreza is offered in two body styles, a hatchback and a sedan.
Both vehicles are excellent, yet they have some notable differences. The sedan offers 12.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity, while the hatchback has 20.8 cubic feet.
Both automobiles can accommodate a variety of roof boxes. However, in this piece, we will suggest a Subaru Impreza Roof box that will work well with each specific model.
OUT TOP PICKS:
- Best Overall: Goplus Cargo Box
- Runner-up: SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
- Highest Quality: YAKIMA – RocketBox Pro
- Best Feature: Thule Vector Rooftop Cargo Box
- Best Rated: JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier
REVIEW
1. Goplus Cargo Box
If you need a rooftop cargo carrier but seldom transport lengthy things like skis, we recommend the Goplus Rooftop Carrier. It’s quite simple to set up and operate, and it offers many of the same convenient features as more expensive versions. Quick clamps allow for easy installation and removal, and a lid that opens on both sides of the automobile ensures that your belongings are always within easy reach. The light weight of about 25 pounds also facilitates mounting it on top of a car. If you need to install the box yourself or have a compact vehicle, this may be a good option since it is one of the least bulky and longest of our boxes.
Again, in terms of concessions, this freight carrier is shorter than the alternatives. Most adult skis will be too long for the maximum length of around 140 cm. since of this, certain vehicles won’t be able to use this carrier since the crossbars aren’t movable enough to fit their width. In addition, the fast clamps don’t have a tightness indication, unlike other types which feature a distinct click when the clamp is properly tightened. However, if you’re looking to save money and don’t need a ski freight carrier, this is a fantastic alternative.
Feature
- The dimensions of the product are 63 by 31 by 15 inches.
- Brand Goplus
- Product Weight: 25 pounds
- ASIN B07K75WXYJ
Pros
- Conveniently situated
- Simple to implement
Cons
- Not able to carry lengthy skis or boards
- Tiny apertures for water infiltration
2. SportRack Vista XL Rear Opening Cargo Box
Even though it’s at the bottom of our list, the SportRack Vista XL isn’t without its merits. Having 18 cubic feet of space is a big upgrade over smaller boxes like the Thule Pulse M (14 cubic feet), and the 19-inch height makes it easy to store taller goods like golf clubs or strollers (many sleeker boxes are 15 inches or less in height). Unlike the somewhat less expensive Thule Sidekick up above, the Vista XL is delivered completely constructed and requires no further tools to install. The SportRack deserves consideration by anybody searching for a low-cost, hassle-free storage solution.
The Vista XL was once our top budget selection, but its recent price increase (from $400) makes it more difficult to recommend above other affordable designs like as the Sidekick and Jegs mentioned before. The Vista’s most noticeable flaw, apart from its high price tag, is its back opening; we would much rather have a box that opens on the side for easier access to all of our belongings. The SportRack, like the other low-cost alternatives offered, cannot carry skis, and its U-bolt mounting technique isn’t as stylish as more contemporary clamp designs. Ultimately, we’d rather save with the $180 cheaper Jegs up there, but the SportRack is a good option and has a little higher quality design.
Feature
- Dimensions of the product are 62.5 x 39 x 19 inches
- Weight of Item: 19.96 pounds
- Producer of Sport Rack
- ASIN B00BCLL8C0
Pros
- Affordable and capacious.
Cons
-
Only opens from the rear.
3. YAKIMA – RocketBox Pro
If you need a high-quality cargo box but can’t afford to spend top dollar, the Yakima RocketBox Pro 14 is the way to go. This roof box is simple to use and takes just a few minutes to set up on most cars. It has two doors, which is something we think is essential, and it is quite sturdy and well-made. The dimpled texture and matte finish are great for concealing minor scratches.
As is always the case, however, certain compromises were made in order to keep the cost down. The greatest length of goods you may transport is roughly 170 cm since this cargo carrier is somewhat lower in size than the premium variants. When compared to similarly priced alternatives, it seems bulkier and less polished overall. However, if you need more space for your vehicle’s equipment but don’t want to make too many compromises in quality or cost, we think you’ll find this product to be an excellent choice.
Feature
- The dimensions of the product are 39.37 x 11.81 x 62.99 inches.
- Brand YAKIMA
- Weight of Item: 50.8 pounds
- ASIN B005G2393M
Pros
- Convenient
- Feels secure
- Dual-side entrance
Cons
- Not the most fashionable
4. Thule Vector Rooftop Cargo Box
The new benchmark for high-end cargo containers is the Thule Vector. This rooftop load carrier is sleek, athletic, and classy, with performance aesthetics to set your vehicle apart and clever functionality to free you up to concentrate on living an active lifestyle. The inside is bright white, and the motion-activated LED lights make it easy to see at night or in low light. The base is protected with a felt lining that also gives the bag a plush appearance.
You can get to your stuff quickly and easily from either side thanks to the special flush-mount latch and strengthened top. The Thule Vector cargo box, like all Thule products, has undergone rigorous testing both in the real world and in the Thule test center to ensure the safety of your skis, baggage, and other gear during transport. The Thule Vector has been meticulously crafted to not only look beautiful on your vehicle but also to provide you with a first-rate experience every time you use it.
Feature
- Dimensions of the item are 91 by 35 by 12.5 inches.
- Weight of Item: 65.9 Pounds
- Material Plastic
- ASIN B07YYSNXNN
Pros
- Premium design and construction.
Cons
- Expensive and limited to capacities of 13 cubic feet.
5. JEGS Rooftop Cargo Carrier
This HDPE plastic hard shell vehicle freight carrier has a 10-cubic-foot capacity, a spacious interior measuring 46 1/2 by 30 1/2 by 17 1/2 inches, and an aerodynamic design for reduced fuel use.
Locking corners, a front latch, and a weatherproof seal provide maximum security for your belongings while they are stored on the roof of your vehicle.
The ability to load and unload from either side of the vehicle facilitates stress-free driving and storage.
Quick and simple set up and placement that needs no special equipment. You can get safely on the road fast thanks to the provided mounting hardware and straightforward instructions.
Feature
- The dimensions of the product are 47.5 x 28 x 12.5 inches.
- Product Weight: 25 pounds
- Manufacturer JEGS
- ASIN B07DMQQP8Q
Pros
- Roomy
- Reduced cost
- Didn’t disclose
- Locks tight
Cons
- Somewhat delicate
- Stay barriers are difficult
FAQS
What factors make a cargo box the “best” fit specifically for Subaru models?
The “best” cargo box for Subaru models takes into consideration a combination of factors:
Fit and Compatibility: The box should seamlessly fit Subaru’s roof racks without any modifications.
Aerodynamics: Given Subaru’s design, the cargo box should be streamlined to reduce drag and ensure fuel efficiency.
Capacity and Size: It should offer adequate storage space without overwhelming the vehicle’s size, ensuring safe rear and peripheral visibility.
Are there cargo boxes designed exclusively for Subaru, or can general cargo boxes work just as well?
While there are cargo boxes specifically designed with Subaru models in mind, many general cargo boxes can work equally well if they meet the compatibility and aerodynamic requirements of the Subaru vehicle. Always check the product specifications and customer reviews to ensure a good fit.
How does a cargo box affect the fuel efficiency of a Subaru?
Adding a cargo box to any vehicle, including Subarus, can impact fuel efficiency due to increased weight and changes in aerodynamics. However, by choosing a streamlined and well-designed cargo box optimized for Subaru, the reduction in fuel efficiency can be minimized. It’s always a good practice to remove the cargo box when not in use to maintain optimal fuel efficiency.
FINAL THOUGHT
Despite the smaller trunk, a large top box is not recommended for the Subaru Impreza Sedan. Large roof boxes not only reduce aerodynamic efficiency but also potentially prevent you from getting to your trunk when you need anything.
On the other side, the hatchback does feature a longer roof. The Thule Pulse, and other large roof boxes, may now be installed. The Yakima Rocket box pro is your best choice if you’re looking for a solution that will work with both the sedan and the Hatchback.
