Comparing the SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box with Thule and Yakima Cargo Boxes, 2009 Subaru Forester

Question:

Do you recommend the Vista xl for my subaru 2009 forester? or is the Thule/Yakima worth paying the extra 150-200 dollars

asked by: Rich G

Expert Reply:

Basically, it depends on what features you want in a cargo box. The SportRack Vista XL, # SR7018, is going to give you all of the basic features of a cargo box. The main difference is going to be the mounting hardware. The Vista XL uses u-bolts, which you can see in the last picture on the product page.

The u-bolts are going to be a secure connection, but they take a lot longer to attach to the crossbars on the vehicle roof. Yakima and Thule boxes have a clamping type of mechanism that makes installation or removal much easier and faster.

The Thule and Yakima boxes, like the RocketBox Pro 14, # Y07192, are also going to be better constructed, more robust, and can include features such as integrated straps and cargo attachment points inside the boxes.

If you are looking for a basic box and do not mind the u-bolt style of attachment, the Vista XL box is a good option. As long as the crossbars that run side to side on the roof of your 2009 Subaru Forester are under 4 inches wide, and the center to center distance between the bars is 25-7/8, 27-7/8 or 29-7/8 inches, this box will fit.

expert reply by: Michael H