The Subaru WRX is a high-performance compact sports car synonymous with race driving worldwide. As much, it’s not endowed with the largest trunk size as sedans of its size. If you are a fan of the outdoors, a roof box becomes necessary to complement the Subaru’s 12 cubic feet cargo space.
Cargo boxes provide you additional space to store your luggage while on the go, as well as protect the car roof from scratches. They are designed to withstand heavy and large loads, so they will get the job done, whether it’s camping gear, fishing equipment, snowboards, surfboards, or skis.
Picking the best cargo box isn’t a walk in the park as the Subaru WRX comes in sedan and hatchback models. However, all the featured products in the Subaru WRX Cargo Box Review are compatible with both WRX models from 2009-to 2022.
Verdict
Top Choice – Thule Vector M Rooftop Cargo Box
Best Runners-Up – Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 Cargo Box
Budget-Friendly – SPORTRACK SR7095 Skyline XL Cargo Box
Honorable Mention – INNO BRA240BK Ridge Cargo Box
| PRODUCT | Thule Vector M Rooftop Cargo Box | Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 Cargo Box | SPORTRACK SR7095 Skyline XL Cargo Box | INNO BRA240BK Ridge Cargo Box |
| DIMENSION | 83.5 x 34.5 x 14 inches | 58 x 36 x 16 inches | 55 x 41 x 14 inches | 54.5 x 28.5 x 14 inches |
| WEIGHT | 59.3 Pounds | 30 pounds | 30 pounds | 20 pounds |
| CAPACITY | 13 cubic ft | 12 cubic ft | 18 cubic ft | 8 cubic ft |
| LOAD LIMIT | 165 pounds | 165 pounds | 110 pounds | 110 pounds |
| OPENING | Dual-side | Dual-side | Passenger | Passenger |
Table of Contents
1. Thule Vector M Rooftop Cargo Box
If you are looking for a tough, reliable roof box with a luxury design to complement the Subaru WRX STI sleek lines, the Thule Vector ticks all the boxes. The outer shell has a black metallic or a titan matte finishing with fast-looking, sporty lines which accentuate sporty and executive attributes.
The Vector is made from high-quality ABS plastic and subjected to numerous durability and static tests. If the mound remains unscathed, internal struts reinforce both the lid and bottom of the box. This makes the box weigh a bit, but it is more stable, durable, and has a 165-pound weight rating.
The interior is painted white and lined with motion sensor subtle gray LED lights that automatically switch on as you open the lid. You can efficiently load, unload or find gear under dark conditions. A felt liner provides a cushion between your equipment and the box, preventing them from bouncing around as you drive. This is particularly useful if you are transporting skis or snowboards as it will protect their edges from chipping.
Installing the 13 cubic feet pound carrier is an easy task thanks to the PowerClick mounting system. No more guessing how much tightening the attachments require as the lock will ‘click’ when the optimum tension is reached. To prevent the knobs from over-torquing, the threads won’t move an inch even if you keep twisting after the ‘click’ sound.
You can open the box from both sides with synchronized lid lifters keeping it open for easy loading or unloading of your gear. The Vector features the SlideLock system to keep your belongings safe, which indicates when the box has been securely locked.
Summing up all these impressive features of the Thule Vector M justifies the significantly higher price tag. It does not just offer a big cargo haul; it adds glamour to your Subaru WRX with minimal wind noise and fuel consumption.
- A sleek, aerodynamic cargo box with premium features that compliments the styling of modern vehicles
- Premium felt-lined interior base for increased protection of gear
- Bright, motion-activated LED lights and white interior allow for visibility during nighttime use
- Exclusive flush-mount closure and reinforced lid provide effortless, dual-side opening and closing
- Thule SlideLock system automatically locks the lid in place and shows that the box is closed securely
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Yakima RocketBox Pro 12 Cargo Box
The design and construction of the Yakima RocketBox exhibit durability, conservation, and security. Made from ABS injection-molded plastic, this roof box is tough UV-resistant with a flat bottom strong enough to support up to 165 pounds heavy loads. The RocketBox Pro 12 measures 58 x 36 x 16 inches with 12 cubic feet of ample storage to carry extra cargo on your trip.
An aerodynamical design and a low profile reduce wind noise drag and noise, making your trip more fuel-efficient. While the Yakima is low enough for garages and underground passages, remove it before entering automatic car washes. These machines have not been optimized to clean your Subaru WRX with it on board, and the detergents used could damage the surface of the roof box.
Mounting the box on your Subaru is rapid and easy due to quick-dial mounting hardware, universal rack compatibility, and tool-free assembly. The crossbars should be spread between 24 to 32 inches, and the clamps properly fastened for a perfect fit. Periodically check the attachment hardware and levers inside the box before use as they can loosen over time and tighten them where necessary.
The Yakima uses the Same Key System (SKS) locking mechanism. The cores come in packs of 2, 4, 6, or 10 and should be lubricated using graphite or any other dry lubricant. The security key locks the lid firmly, keeping your cargo safe from itchy fingers and prevailing weather conditions.
The dual-opening mechanism allows easy loading and unloading of the textured matte-black cargo box. Forward mounting positioning ensures you’ll have plenty of room to open your hatchback yet be roomy enough to add substantial cargo space to your vehicle.
- Aerodynamic design to reduce drag with forward mounting hardware for improved hatch clearance making it great for small vehicles
- Perfect for SUVs, trucks and wagons
- Dual-sided opening and push button security allow easy access on either side of your vehicle and ensure your lid is secure and your gear is safe with included SKS lock cores
- Quick-dial mounting hardware fits Yakima round, square, factory and most aerodynamic bars
- Love it ‘Till You Leave It Limited Lifetime Warranty
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. SPORTRACK SR7095 Skyline XL Cargo Box
The Skyline XL offers you excellent value for money for an 18 cubic feet cargo box. It is nicely designed with a robust high-density polyethylene material (HDPE) construction which is lightweight, shock-absorbent, and blocks ultraviolet light. While empty, the box weighs 30 pounds and has a 110-pound load limit. It measures 55 x 41 x 14 inches, ideal for the Subaru WRX roofline.
The Skyline requires assembling before installation, but the instruction manual provides step-by-step visual and text instructions on how to do it with a minimum of fuss. Additionally, the roof carrier has universal compatibility with factory and aftermarket crossbars with a 3-4 inch diameter.
The U-bolt system makes installation easy and proficient. Place the two crossbars 2.15 feet apart, mount the Skyline Cargo Box and insert the U-bolts. Adjust the hand knobs to tighten the attachment to the crossbars for stability and security. Thule provides vinyl covers to seal off any unutilized holes, which will prevent any form of precipitation from seeping into the cargo box.
It opens from the passenger’s side, enabling you to access all your gear very easily without worrying about oncoming traffic. However, it is quite cumbersome when fitting the U-Bolts since you have to stretch a long way to fasten the hinges on the driver’s side. The dual locks are solid, and the keys cannot come out of the lock system until the box is closed properly for added security.
- Made of high-density material for added stability
- Passenger side opening for access away from traffic
- Easy to attach and remove from the vehicle
- Includes locks to secure contents in the box
- U-bolt mounting hardware kit is included for the installation of the Skyline XL cargo box on most vehicles with factory installed or aftermarket roof racks rated at 150 lbs
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. INNO BRA240BK Ridge Cargo Box
The INNO BRA240BK is a popular cargo carrier among hatchback and compact car owners. An aerodynamic diffuser design saves fuel consumption and provides a quieter ride. Additionally, the unique The Memory Mount System is accompanied by a detailed instruction guide for quick installation so that you can be on your way in no time.
The 54.5 x 28.5 x 14-inch chassis comprises 3 layers of high-grade ABS material, which is lightweight, shock-absorbent, and blocks ultraviolet light. SPM injection technology is used to fortify further the base of the box for heavy-duty functionality. It weighs 20 pounds but has a remarkable weight capacity of 110 pounds. Finally, the carrier is coated with either a white or black glossy finish that looks great and is long-lasting.
Once the knob is sturdily adjusted, and the buckle closed, you can then load up your INNO Ridge box’s 8 cubic feet volume capacity from the passenger’s side. The hinge spring struts keep the lid open, making it easy to access the contents of your carrier.
A one-touch buckle belt will hold the luggage in place as you drive along any terrain. The automatic anti-theft lock is accessible by a customized key that keeps the lid firmly shut and secures your luggage.
While the INNO BRA240BK Ridge Cargo Box is a great way to transport cargo, the 54.5-inch length limits the type and size of cargo it can carry. It accommodates camping equipment medium-sized suitcases, but it may not be the most suitable for carrying long gear such as skis, snowboards, or fishing rods.
- INNO designed and made in Japan
- Aerodynamic, lightweight design for superior noise reduction and easy on/off installation
- Universal fit aero, square, round, and most factory racks
- Safety lock system key can only be removed once box is locked
- Limited Life Time Warranty
Last update on 2023-11-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Frequently Asked Questions
Are our cargo boxes waterproof?
While most boxes feature a waterproof shell and weather sealing, they are weather-resistant but not completely waterproof. If you have any luggage sensitive to water, they are better off inside the car’s cabin. However, if you must put them in the cargo box, place them inside nylon paper and seal them.
What is roof clearance?
This is the distance between your car’s rooftop and the lowest part of the mounted cargo box. Installing the roof box too close to the roof generates whistling sounds when driving at high speeds. We recommend elevating the roof-box at least 4 inches above the Subaru WRX’s rooftop.
Can I store my spare wheel inside the roof box?
No. It is hard to tie down a spare wheel inside a roof box, even with straps. This may damage the roof box and not to mention how hectic it will be to remove it from the cargo box. It is best left underneath the trunk lining of the WRX.
Narrow boxes vs full-width boxes
Narrow boxes supersede if you want to leave extra room on the roof to mount other gear such as kayaks. They are usually 60cm wide or less and open on the side. Full-width boxes are up to 95 cm wide and provide more storage space. However, they are bulky difficult to store and mount by one person.
Conclusion
We guarantee that all the above cargo boxes reviewed are of the highest quality and offer value for money. They are made from corrosion and UV-resistant materials, so you can be rest assured of reliable service for years to come. Moreover, they are easy to install, unmount and have great aerodynamics.
