The use of roof boxes has tremendously grown over the past few years as car owners seek ingenious solutions to transport more luggage and gear on road trips and vacations. A roof box will add to the 19.7 cubic feet cargo capacity of your Kia Niro.
This will free up space inside your car for a relaxed and comfortable ride. The market is flooded with so many products and various variants in every price bracket; you may be confused which cargo carrier to go for.
We have compiled a list of the 5 best roof boxes for your Kia Niro based on reliability, durability, and quality construction to help you out.
- Best Overall - Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
Table of Contents
Kia Niro Roof Boxes Overview
Last update on 2023-03-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Best Roof Boxes for Kia Niro
Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier
It boasts a 165 pounds maximum load-bearing capacity, which makes it ideal for heavy-duty use. Moreover, the forward position on the roof provides adequate hatch clearance for full trunk access.
The dual side opening mechanism comes in handy when you’re parked in a tight space or adjacent to a wall since you can access your cargo from either side. Gripped handles and a double pair of sturdy hinges will ensure the lid remains open for easy loading or unloading.
During mounting, the only tricky part is how to get it on top of your Kia as it is considerably heavy (42 pounds). Once up there, the PowerClick system takes over, a few adjustments, and it ‘clicks’ upon secure attachment in a matter of minutes. Let the price tag not deter you, you’re acquiring the absolute best carrier available in the market, and it’s worth every penny.
Thule Pulse Rooftop Cargo Box
It is fitted with Easy-Grip hardware and extensive rack compatibility allow for easy mounting. It also has SecureLock lid functionality to protect your valuables. Such security features make the Thule Pulse one of the most reliable and sought after rooftop carriers for Kia Niro.
It opens from the passenger’s side and has lid stiffeners that ensure hands-free access. However, the single side opening poses a slight problem when fastening the clamps on the driver’s side, but a step ladder can easily mitigate this. The Pulse performs exceptionally well for its weight class and price bracket.
Malone Auto Racks Cargo16 Rooftop Box
The patented quick attach mounting system that features a sturdy bracket provides for a faster and simple installation. Additionally, mechanized gas spring struts prevent the box from being compressed. You can open it from either side of the car for quick and convenient access to your gear.
Lastly, the pearl silver finishing of the Malone can withstand any weather condition and still maintain its elegance. This is thanks to the UV resistant coating and sturdy construction. This carrier is a perfect blend between style and functionality; it looks great and performs even better.
SportRack Horizon Alpine Cargo Box
The SportRack Horizon is a great choice if you’re looking for a rooftop carrier that ticks all the boxes for quality and storage at a relatively subsidized price. It maximizes value for your money with a 16 cubic feet hauling capacity and sturdy construction. Another great feature of the SportRack Horizon has to be the sleek, slim profile.
Although it’s quite long (76.88 inches), it is not particularly high, ideal for sking enthusiasts who can conveniently fit in 5-6 pairs of skis or 4 snowboards. This slim profile also provides great aerodynamics which reduces noise and does not increase your fuel consumption.
A centralized lock shuts the box’s lid firmly for a waterproof seal, and no matter how atrocious the weather you drive through, there’s no chance of your luggage getting wet. Unlike the Motion XT and the Malone, it opens from the passenger’s side away from oncoming traffic. However noble this might be, opening from both sides would have provided much easier access and a higher ranking on this list.
Conclusion
Before choosing a roof carrier, it’s important to buy what suits your individual needs as well as your Kia Niro’s roofline structure. It’s tempting to buy the roof box with the highest hauling capacity, but this will cost you considerably both in purchasing it and at the pump.
Also, the roof box may be too large to mount on the Kia or crumble your roof leading to undesirable repercussions. Stick to Kia’s recommended roof load limits for a smooth and safe ride.
