When you have an active family, or perhaps just enjoy getting away for long weekends, you quickly realize how limited your vehicle’s cargo space can be. I remember struggling to fit everything for a simple camping trip – coolers, tents, sleeping bags, plus luggage for a few people. It felt like playing Tetris every time, and often, the back seats or even the passenger footwells ended up crammed with gear. Solving this space crunch wasn’t just about comfort; it was about safety, too. A car overloaded inside restricts visibility and can be dangerous. Finding a reliable way to expand storage was essential for enjoyable, stress-free journeys.
If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a pile of luggage and outdoor gear, wondering how it’s all going to fit into your vehicle, then you’re likely considering a rooftop cargo carrier. This category of product exists specifically to solve that problem: expanding your usable storage space outside the main cabin, freeing up passenger room and improving overall comfort on trips. An ideal customer for a rooftop cargo box is someone who frequently travels, enjoys outdoor activities like camping, skiing, or road trips with family, and has a vehicle equipped with or capable of adding roof racks or crossbars. These carriers are perfect for hauling bulky, lightweight items, keeping them secure and protected from the elements. However, they might not be the best fit for everyone. If you rarely travel with extra gear, have a vehicle with no roof rack options, or primarily need to transport extremely heavy items (which could exceed the box or roof rack’s weight limits), a rooftop carrier might be overkill or unsuitable. In such cases, perhaps a hitch-mounted carrier or simply packing lighter could be better alternatives. Before buying, you need to think about the size you need (how much gear are you carrying?), your vehicle’s roof capacity and dimensions, the type of mounting system (how easy is it to install and remove?), security features, how it opens (single or dual side), and importantly, where you will store the box when it’s not on your car.
- A versatile roof-mounted cargo box for everyday use
- Narrow design leaves space for other gear such as bikes, kayaks, skis, and more while providing 11 cubic feet of additional packing space
- Designed to fit a wide range of vehicles; works with most factory and aftermarket roof racks
Introducing the Thule Force XT Sport
The Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, Sport, Matte Black is designed as a versatile roof-mounted storage solution for everyday use and travel. It promises to add significant packing space to your vehicle safely and conveniently. This specific model, the Sport, comes in a sleek Matte Black finish and offers 16 cubic feet of additional capacity. When you purchase the Thule Force XT Sport, you get the cargo box itself along with the necessary mounting hardware and tie-down straps to secure your load inside. Compared to older generation Thule boxes or some budget alternatives, the Force XT line focuses on ease of mounting with its “click” system and dual-side opening for enhanced usability. This particular Thule cargo box is well-suited for individuals or smaller families needing to carry a substantial amount of gear like luggage, camping equipment, or sports gear (up to 5-7 pairs of skis or 3-5 snowboards up to 175 cm). It’s likely less ideal if you need significantly more space (Thule offers larger sizes like L, XL, XXL in the Force XT line) or if you have very limited clearance in your garage for horizontal storage.
Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons:
Pros:
* Lightweight and relatively easy to handle during installation.
* Quick and secure PowerClick mounting system with torque indicator.
* Convenient dual-side opening for easy access.
* Generous 16 cu ft of storage space for its size classification.
* Quiet operation with minimal wind noise while driving.
* Effective at keeping contents dry in rain.
* Allows for full trunk access on many vehicles.
Cons:
* Plastic shell feels thinner than older, heavier carriers.
* Locking mechanism and key operation can feel a bit finicky.
* Officially requires horizontal storage, which can take up significant space.
* Internal mounting clips for the PowerClick system can feel less sturdy during initial setup.
* Higher price point compared to budget brands.
- DURABLE BUILD - Tubular steel in black epoxy powder coating to promote high strength and a lightweight design. It is rated for 500 lbs.
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
- HEAVY DUTY STEEL CONSTRUCTION: 1 Piece construction with matt black powder coating finish that resists the elements, rust and scratches.
Exploring the Features and Benefits
Let’s dive deeper into what makes the Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, Sport, Matte Black a valuable addition for travelers and adventurers by examining its key features and the practical benefits they provide.
Spacious 16 Cubic Feet Capacity
One of the primary reasons to invest in a rooftop cargo box is to gain extra storage space, and the Force XT Sport delivers with a stated 16 cubic feet. In real-world terms, this translates to being able to carry a surprising amount of gear. I’ve managed to fit bulky items like folding camp chairs, duffel bags, smaller suitcases, beach umbrellas, and even an air mattress inside this cargo box. For a family trip, this volume can swallow several large luggage pieces or a mix of suitcases and outdoor equipment, effectively freeing up all that precious space inside the car cabin that would otherwise be occupied by gear. This benefit is crucial because it allows passengers to stretch out and ride in comfort, rather than being squeezed in around luggage. It also means improved visibility out the rear window, contributing to a safer driving experience. For skiers or snowboarders, the stated capacity of 5-7 pairs of skis or 3-5 snowboards (up to 175 cm) makes this a viable option for winter sports trips, keeping wet and bulky equipment out of the car interior.
Innovative PowerClick Quick-Mount System
Mounting a large, somewhat awkward rooftop carrier can be a daunting task, especially if you’re doing it alone. The Thule Force XT line addresses this with its PowerClick quick-mount system. This system utilizes internal knobs that control clamps which grip your vehicle’s crossbars. The genius part is the integrated torque indicator – when you tighten the knobs, the clamp closes, and once it’s securely fastened to the recommended tightness, the knob clicks. This audible click confirms that the cargo box is properly and securely mounted. My experience with this system has been overwhelmingly positive. While getting the box *onto* the roof initially can still be easier with two people (especially on taller vehicles), once it’s up there, aligning the PowerClick clamps with the crossbars and tightening them is incredibly simple and fast. The system slides along rails inside the box, allowing for adjustment to fit various crossbar spreads without needing to adjust your vehicle’s roof rails. This ease of installation is a huge benefit, making the Thule Force XT much more practical for regular use compared to older systems that might require tools or more wrestling. While a few reviewers noted that small internal plastic clips holding the clamps in place during handling can feel flimsy or pop out, they also confirm that once the PowerClick knobs are tightened, the clamps are held extremely securely to the crossbars, making this a minor point during setup rather than a structural flaw once installed.
Convenient Dual-Side Opening
Imagine packing or unpacking your rooftop storage and realizing the item you need is on the far side, away from where you’re standing. With older, single-side opening boxes, this meant walking around the vehicle, potentially into traffic or a cramped parking spot. The Thule Force XT Sport features dual-side opening. This means the lid is hinged to open from either the driver’s side or the passenger’s side of the vehicle. This is an incredibly practical feature. Whether you’re parked on the side of the road, in a busy parking lot, or in your driveway, you can access your gear easily from whichever side is most convenient and safe. You can load from one side, walk around, and load from the other, or simply grab what you need without obstruction. The mechanism is controlled by the central locking system, ensuring that when one side is locked, the other is too. While you do need to close one side before opening the other, the ability to choose your access point significantly enhances usability and saves time and hassle, especially when fully loading or unloading the cargo box.
Thoughtful Design for Full Trunk Access
Another design consideration addressed by the Thule Force XT is ensuring that the installation doesn’t impede access to your vehicle’s rear trunk or hatch. The Sport model is designed to sit forward on the vehicle’s roof, positioned to minimize the risk of contact with the rear hatch when it’s fully open. This allows you to use your vehicle’s primary cargo area simultaneously with the rooftop carrier. Being able to access the trunk without the box getting in the way is essential for road trips, as you’ll likely need items from the trunk more frequently than those in the rooftop box. The design works well on many SUVs and wagons, though it’s always wise to check the dimensions and positioning relative to your specific vehicle’s hatch arc before purchasing or installing. The benefit here is seamless integration with your car’s existing functionality, ensuring that adding roof storage doesn’t subtract from convenience elsewhere.
Construction and Durability
The Thule Force XT Sport is constructed from plastic, which contributes to its relatively light weight (41 lbs). Some users accustomed to older, heavier carriers might find the plastic shell feels thin upon first handling, perhaps less substantial than double-wall construction. However, it’s important to distinguish this initial feel from the overall durability and performance when the unit is closed and mounted. The design and materials are chosen to be robust enough for highway speeds and varying weather conditions. My own experience, and that of others, confirms its effectiveness in keeping contents dry during heavy rain. While the material might feel flexible when the box is open, once the lid is closed and the internal latches (controlled by the LockKnob system) are engaged, the entire structure becomes rigid and secure. The included tie-down straps allow you to secure items inside, preventing them from shifting and potentially stressing the lid from within, adding another layer of security and protecting the contents. Despite initial impressions of the material thickness, the box performs reliably under load and on the road, suggesting that the design provides sufficient strength where needed.
On-Road Performance: Aerodynamics and Noise
A common concern with rooftop carriers is the impact on fuel efficiency and the amount of wind noise generated. The Thule Force XT line is designed with aerodynamics in mind. While adding any object to your roof will inevitably increase drag and slightly decrease gas mileage, the impact of this carrier seems to be minimal for its size. Users report a noticeable but not drastic reduction in MPG, often only a few miles per gallon, even when fully loaded and traveling at highway speeds. This is a small price to pay for the significantly increased storage capacity. More impressively, the box is remarkably quiet on the road. Unlike some bag-style carriers or older hard shells that can generate significant wind noise or flapping sounds, the Force XT maintains a smooth, quiet profile. You might hear a slight increase in wind presence compared to driving without anything on the roof, but it’s generally unobtrusive, allowing for normal conversation or music enjoyment inside the vehicle. This quiet operation greatly contributes to passenger comfort, especially on long drives.
Security and Locking Mechanism (LockKnob System)
Protecting your gear is paramount, and the Thule Force XT Sport incorporates the LockKnob system for security. This system uses a single key and a large, easy-to-grip plastic knob to control multiple locking points along the lid. When the key is inserted and turned, it allows the knob to rotate, which engages or disengages the latches. The knob also helps in smoothly opening and closing the lid. While some users noted that the key can feel a bit finicky or the plastic knob might not feel as solid as a metal component, the integrated locking system ensures that the lid is securely latched at multiple points when closed. Crucially, the key cannot be removed from the lock unless the box is properly and fully closed and locked. This prevents you from accidentally driving off with the box unsecured. For added protection against theft and ensuring the lid stays closed at speed, the multi-point latching system activated by the LockKnob provides peace of mind.
Versatility in Fit and Use
The Thule Force XT is designed to be highly versatile, fitting a wide range of vehicles and crossbar types. The adjustable PowerClick clamps can accommodate various crossbar shapes and widths, making it compatible with factory-installed racks, aftermarket bars (like Thule’s own Aeroblades or others), and most standard shapes (round, square, aero). The sliding rails for the clamps inside the box allow you to position the clamps to match your crossbar spread, offering flexibility during installation. This means you’re likely to be able to transfer this cargo box between different vehicles in the future, or if you upgrade your car. The ability to fit skis and snowboards adds to its versatility, making it useful across different seasons. The overall adaptability of the carrier ensures that it’s a long-term investment for anyone who needs flexible, extra storage for various types of trips and activities.
The Significant Storage Challenge
One notable drawback, as highlighted by multiple users, is the official Thule recommendation against storing the Force XT vertically (either on its end or mounted sideways on a wall using its clamps) as it could potentially deform the plastic and void the warranty. Given the substantial size of the Sport model (74.75″L x 33″W x 18″H), storing it horizontally requires a significant amount of floor space in a garage, shed, or storage unit, which many people simply don’t have readily available. While some users have devised their own wall-mounting or ceiling hoist solutions (sometimes using Thule’s dedicated hoist system, which is an additional expense), the manufacturer’s stance on vertical storage is a genuine limitation and inconvenience for many owners. This space requirement for storage when not in use is perhaps the biggest practical hurdle once the rooftop box is off the car.
What Users Are Saying
Having browsed through feedback from various owners, the sentiment surrounding the Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, Sport, Matte Black appears largely positive, with a few common points raised. Many users highlight the ease of installation thanks to the clever quick-mount system, often stating it’s significantly simpler than older carriers they’ve used. The generous storage capacity is frequently praised, with people surprised by just how much gear they can fit, commenting on the relief of having a clear car interior. The dual-side opening is consistently mentioned as a highly convenient feature. On the road, users appreciate how quiet the box is, even at highway speeds, and note that the impact on gas mileage is less severe than anticipated. While some initially found the plastic material or the locking mechanism a bit less robust than expected, they generally confirmed the box’s performance and reliability during travel, keeping contents dry and secure. The main recurring critique centers on the challenge of storing the unit horizontally when not in use, given Thule’s guidance against vertical storage.
Concluding Thoughts
Feeling cramped in your vehicle with insufficient space for luggage and gear is a common travel frustration that can detract from the enjoyment and even the safety of a trip. An effective storage solution is necessary to ensure comfort, better visibility, and peace of mind on the road. The Thule Force XT Rooftop Cargo Box, Sport, Matte Black stands out as a great option to solve this problem for several key reasons. Its significant 16 cubic feet of capacity provides ample room for a variety of gear, from camping equipment to skis. The PowerClick quick-mount system makes installation and removal remarkably easy and secure, taking the hassle out of preparing for a trip. Furthermore, the dual-side opening offers unmatched convenience when loading and unloading. Despite minor concerns about the feel of the plastic or the locking mechanism, the carrier performs well in real-world conditions, proving durable, quiet, and weather-resistant. While you’ll need to plan for its horizontal storage footprint, the benefits it provides in expanding your vehicle’s carrying capabilities are substantial. To learn more or purchase this helpful storage solution, Click here to check out the product .
Last update on 2025-08-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API