When there is no longer enough space in the trunk of your car, no matter if you are going on vacation or working on your car, you should think about buying a car box. But which roof box to choose? We have collected the top 5 boxes from which everyone can choose what is right for them - on vacation, at the dacha or for work.
Roof boxes can be selected according to different parameters, based on your needs: by size, if you need to transport wide and long loads, by volume, if you need to fill the entire space of the box to capacity, since there is a lot of cargo, as well as price, technical qualities , such as the material and its strength and stability, and shape and design, if you need the box to look aesthetically pleasing on your car.
Thule Motion XT XL
One of the most popular Thule boxes, which undoubtedly topped the list of car roof boxes several years ago. The build quality, reliable fastenings and excellent molding of the plastic indicate a good performance of the box.
Thought out to the smallest detail
The Thule Motion XT XL box has a large volume - 500 liters and an internal length of 200 cm, so it is suitable for many purposes: transporting skis, snowboards to a ski resort, going on vacation, or just showing off an expensive brand box on the road, as its design still remains modern and stylish.
The box is available in several colors: glossy black, glossy metallic gray, and a limited edition glossy white. But, unfortunately, this box is not available in a matte finish, which may be important for many car enthusiasts.
Premium
But according to many buyers, the price has now become disproportionately high.
At the same time, it is important to take into account one feature: despite its price, for which the pedantic Swedish manufacturer would seem to have to be attentive to detail, the box makes noise when driving at high speeds. And the manufacturer recommends installing this box only on a Thule trunk, the purchase of which will hit your pocket even harder. What’s important is that you can often come across complaints about service support. The lengthy consideration of customer complaints, the absence of most spare parts - all this indicates that the manufacturer has misbehaved with the Russian buyer.
“Thule boxes are certainly good and deserve the attention of buyers. However, inflated prices and lack of proper maintenance for premium boxes in Russia do not make the purchase of a Thule box a reliable investment. The Thule box will last for many years, just like boxes from other manufacturers. So is it worth overpaying?
How to choose a roof rack
For many, price will be the deciding factor, but also pay attention to these key features:
- Capacity.
The parameter is measured in liters and ranges from 250 to 1100 liters. The higher the number, the more things will fit into the compartment. Capacity depends on the length, width and height of the trunk box. Most often, buyers focus on the length so that it does not protrude too much beyond the dimensions of the roof. For example, for class A and B cars, trunks of 300-400 liters with a length of 120-175 cm are sufficient. Boxes with a length of 190-210 cm are suitable for station wagons and mid-size crossovers. And only on huge jeeps will it be possible to install closed compartments with a length of 220-235 cm . - Load capacity
. In addition to capacity, the strength of the box body plays an important role, which determines the load capacity. The capabilities of different luggage racks allow you to withstand from 50 to 100 kg. At the same time, the indicator is not always proportional to the dimensions, which is important to remember when purchasing (sometimes larger roof racks-boxes are designed for less load than their compact counterparts). - Form factor
. With the same internal volume of the box, measured in liters, some models will be able to transport more pairs of skis, while others will accommodate larger suitcases. This is influenced by the form factor of the trunk box, which is selected for the items being transported (height, width, length). - Opening side
. Single-sided options are cheaper, but the contents are only accessible from the passenger side. Double-sided ones are more functional, but more expensive.
Thule Pacific 780
The box from the outdated Thule line, which due to its low price is still in demand, is therefore still in production, but rarely appears on sale.
Time-tested
The box has an optimal volume - 420 liters, an ergonomic shape, thanks to which the internal length is rather large and it can accommodate fairly long loads - up to 190 cm. This box is good for everyday trips at low speeds, and has long established itself as a reliable assistant their owners.
Thule Pacific 780 has a matte finish and is available in gray and anthracite black.
But this box does not have a large load capacity, it is only 50 kg. And as one of the first boxes, Thule does not have low noise levels at high speeds.
The Thule Pacific box is a popular request among motorists, despite the fact that it has an outdated design and is simple in technical specifications, but why? The answer is simple - there are still people who want to buy a branded box, no matter for what reasons, but for some reason they don’t want to believe that there have long been options on the market that are head and shoulders above the box of this line, and are also much more affordable .
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We will not delve into the chemical composition of each raw material, but believe me, it is better to focus on products made from ABS plastic. They are perfectly adapted to our climate and have a longer service life, while being lighter than analogues made from other materials. Almost all serious manufacturers make their boxes from it. Some may be confused by the fact that it is quite pliable - the box box flexes when pressed. But, as practice shows, such “softness” has no effect on strength.
Broomer Venture L
Modern boxing that meets all standards of quality and reliability. Excellent useful volume - 430 liters, and dimensions that will allow you to place skis and other long loads up to 170 cm in the box. The reinforced bottom evenly distributes the load, and an additional metal reinforcement provides even more stability and strength.
Stylish and modern design
And, of course, we can’t help but mention the design – current sports uniforms and laconic, precise design lines will not leave aesthetic buyers indifferent.
Good aerodynamics, according to customer reviews, also makes the purchase of boxes from this brand attractive. It is worth talking separately about colors and coatings. The box is produced in a glossy design in shining white, premium black, as well as textured matte - graphite gray and laconic black colors.
Reliable and durable coating
Separately, it is worth noting the black matte box with a special Raptor coating, which is more resistant to mechanical damage and environmental influences, which is chosen by lovers of hunting, fishing and expeditionary tourism.
You can choose your own unique color
You can also get the box in any color you like straight from the factory. And by ordering a box painted according to the paint code of your car, you will receive a color that matches it perfectly.
The Broomer Venture L box is equipped with a patented vertical and horizontal storage system. And no one can boast of these options except BROOMER.
The Broomer box will be an assistant in any business; it will reliably, safely and silently transport many things anywhere, and thanks to its design and shape it will fit any car from a compact sedan to a large crossover.
Today, BROOMER boxes have already earned a very reliable reputation. The design of the boxes is bright, modern and memorable. A huge number of patented options, a reasonable size and only positive customer reviews make the purchase of this box a pleasant and reliable event. Therefore, the company can afford the proud slogan “Choose your BROOMER”.
Color
Boxes usually come in only three colors: black, gray and white - you won’t be able to choose too much. Approximately 70% of products are sold in classic black. The least popular are white ones. But recently their share is becoming larger and larger, although they are somewhat more expensive. The explanation is simple - light colors also go well with cars of different colors, while white panniers heat up less in the sun. But boxes are more often used in the warm season.
If none of the proposed colors suits you, don’t despair. The box can be repainted or covered with film. Here the design options will be limited only by your imagination.
In addition to colors, you can choose the texture of the plastic: glossy or matte. Gloss costs more and looks better. But matte ones are more practical.
Eurodetal Magnum 420
A domestic manufacturer whose assortment includes boxes at affordable prices and a wide variety of volumes: from 300 to 450 liters.
Eurodetal Magnum 420 is the most budget option for a box with optimal volume, high quality and reliable. An excellent box in terms of price-quality ratio: the manufacturer offers a convenient modern crab-type mount, durable ABS plastic, and even a case for storing the box in case you remove it from the car.
Practical
Eurodetal Magnum 420 boxes have different colors and coatings: matte black, glossy black, matte white, glossy white, matte gray.
Being one of the cheapest boxes, but no less high quality, this box can be used both for short trips to the country and for repairs, and for traveling around the country. “Good technical characteristics, a large range of models, there are thoughtful little details. For those who are not experienced in the design and appearance of car accessories and prefer a simple option - put it on and go - just right.”
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Thule branded fasteners significantly simplify and speed up the installation process of the box.
Thule branded fasteners significantly simplify and speed up the installation process of the box.
Also, when choosing, you should pay attention to the fastening elements to the crossbars. The most advanced manufacturers have patented their own “smart” fasteners. Their use significantly simplifies and speeds up the installation process (you can install the box without an assistant). All other companies use standard U-shaped brackets to fix their products on the crossbars, which are screwed from the inside of the box using “wings” or elements of a quick clamping system. Both fasteners are quite reliable. The difference, as we have already noted, lies only in ease of use and speed of installation/disassembly.
Eurodetail Magnum 390
Eurodetail is the choice of those who want to stand out. The manufacturer uses the “sinoplex” material, which creates an unusual appearance and increased elasticity of the entire car box. Compared to most competitors - a special system of easily dismantled fastenings to the roof rack of the car.
- Pros
: elastic plastic, quick-release fasteners. - Cons
: more expensive than similar competitors in terms of volume.
Product link - Eurodetail Magnum 390.
Yuago Antares
Our experts call this model “Behemoth” - it is simply huge. 580 liters of volume is enough for the belongings of all family members. Such car boxes are usually installed by owners of family cars - Largus, Chevrolet Lacetti, Renault Kangoo, Fiat Doblo. Various colors available. Due to the angular geometry, high windage will slightly increase fuel consumption.
- Pros
: price-volume. - Cons
: appearance, windage.
Product link - Yuago Antares.
Manufacturers
The price of a car box depends not only on the materials used and functionality. Part of the cost is the image and brand of the manufacturer. After all, maintaining a staff of qualified employees, updating equipment and developing new products involves considerable expenses.
The undisputed leader in the market is the Swedish concern Thule. Japanese Inno and American Whispbar are close in quality. Hapro (Holland) also has successful models. The Italian companies Farad, Menabo and Fabbri have proven themselves to be excellent. Russian manufacturers are also approaching the leaders - the quality of domestic boxes is constantly growing. Among the companies that are trustworthy, we note Lux, Koffer, Yuago and Eurodetal.
Best lists
Are the presented models still not enough for your choice? Then you might be interested in these options:
- Boxing – Biltema +320L.
- For bicycles – INTER INTSTBL.
- Affordable price – Amos DROMADER C-15.
Let's look at them below.
Boxing – Biltema +320L
Manufacturing materials protect the trunk from frost and shock. The Swedish company has created a high-tech box with load securing straps included and low weight. Excellent value for money and quality! There are two colors to choose from: black and silver.
| V (l) | 320 |
| Length(cm) | 185 |
| Load capacity (kg) | 50 |
| Weight (kg) | 10 |
Price: from 11,700 to 12,000 rub.
car rack Biltema +320L
For bicycles – INTER INTSTBL
Active lifestyle lovers, pay attention! A unique trunk for your favorite bicycle, INTER INTSTBL, will safely transport your bike to the ends of the world! Budget model, suitable for almost any car. It's easy to use and that's why it's beautiful. Nothing extra, just quality.
| Frame size compatibility (mm) | 22-90 |
| Load capacity (kg) | 15 |
| Weight, kg) | 2.5 |
Cost: from 1300 to 1500 rubles.
car trunk INTER INTSTBL
Affordable price – Amos Dromader C-15
We have already mentioned this famous Polish company before. If you are looking for a budget and high-quality luggage rack, then turn your attention to the Amos Dromader C-15. Absolutely universal and in great demand among customers.
| Volume (l) | 130 |
| L (cm) | 130 |
| Load capacity (kg) | 70 |
| Weight (kg) | 6 |
Price: from 2400 to 3400 rub.
car rack Amos Dromader C-15
