Thule Motion XT XXL: extra-large rooftop cargo box for gear-heavy trips

Responsible: ad hoc news Flagship & Bestseller Desk. Reviewed prior to publication on June 15, 2026 at 10:48:39 AM ET. Details in the imprint.

The Thule Motion XT XXL is one of the brand's most popular extra-large rooftop cargo boxes, offering up to about 22 cubic feet of additional space for luggage, skis, camping gear, or bulky strollers. It targets families and outdoor travelers who have outgrown the trunk of an SUV and want enclosed, weather-protected storage on the roof rather than a hitch basket or open trailer. In the US, the Motion XT line is widely sold through major retailers such as REI, etrailer, and specialty rack shops, often positioned as a high-capacity, premium hard-shell box.

What the Thule Motion XT XXL does and how it is built

The Motion XT XXL is a hard-shell rooftop cargo box designed to mount on crossbars and carry bulky items that do not fit easily inside the vehicle cabin. Thule specifies an approximate internal volume of 22 cubic feet and a maximum load rating of 165 pounds, though users must also respect the vehicle and roof-rack weight limits. The box is intended to carry items such as large suitcases, camping gear, or snow sports equipment; length and shape will determine whether longer skis fit, but Thule's official materials describe the Motion XT range as suitable for most skis and snowboards within its size envelope.

The box uses a durable ABS plastic shell with a glossy finish and aerodynamic shaping to help reduce wind noise and drag compared with older, more angular cargo boxes. Thule highlights an optimized lid design and a tapered front section, which aim to minimize interference with the vehicle's rear hatch on many SUVs and crossovers. The Motion XT XXL typically features a dual-side opening lid, allowing access from either the driver or passenger side in markets like the US, which is useful when loading on tight streets or in parking lots.

For mounting, the Motion XT range uses Thule's PowerClick quick-mount system, which integrates adjustable clamps that tighten around the crossbars with built-in torque indicators. This system is designed to simplify installation and help users achieve proper clamping force without separate tools in many cases, although some vehicles and crossbars may still require a wrench or adapter. Thule states that the system is compatible with most factory-installed and aftermarket crossbars, including Thule's own WingBar, SquareBar, and similar load bars with appropriate dimensions. That compatibility is a key selling point for US shoppers who may already own roof racks from different brands.

The closure and locking system on the Motion XT XXL includes multiple locking points and a key that can be removed only when the lid is properly closed at all locking locations. This design reduces the risk of driving off with an incompletely latched lid, although users still need to check visually that the lid is fully seated. Reviews on US retailers frequently mention that the handle and locking operation feel sturdy and that the dual-side opening is convenient for loading and unloading. Because the box sits high on the roof, many owners of taller SUVs use a small step stool or stand in the door frame to reach the far side, which is common to this type of product rather than unique to Thule.

While Thule does not publish a universal effect on fuel economy, US reviewers note that any large rooftop box, including the Motion XT XXL, can reduce highway fuel efficiency due to added drag and weight, especially when fully loaded. For many users, the trade-off is acceptable compared with renting a larger vehicle or towing a trailer, particularly on occasional family trips.

Position in Thule's portfolio and US market availability

Within Thule's portfolio, the Motion XT series sits as a high-capacity, user-friendly family of boxes rather than an entry-level or ultra-premium carbon-fiber line. Compared with more compact Thule boxes, the XXL variant focuses on maximum usable volume, making it attractive for larger families, road-trippers, and outdoor enthusiasts who pack bulky camping equipment. Other Thule boxes emphasize low profile or specialized sports use, but the Motion XT XXL aims for versatility with space for everyday luggage as well as seasonal gear.

In the US, the Motion XT XXL is widely listed at major outdoor and automotive retailers. For example, REI and other online outlets present it as a top option for drivers who need around 22 cubic feet of storage. Street pricing can vary by retailer and seasonal promotion; US listings have shown typical prices in the upper hundreds of dollars for the Motion XT line, positioning it as a premium product above entry-level cargo boxes but below some niche performance or specialty builds. Prospective buyers should check current pricing and any shipping surcharges, as the box is large to transport and may incur freight fees.

Thule's official product materials emphasize that the Motion XT boxes are compatible with many popular vehicles, but they also recommend checking a fit guide or consulting a dealer to confirm that the specific car and crossbar spacing support the XXL size. In practice, some sedans and small crossovers may be better matched to smaller Motion XT sizes, while mid-size and full-size SUVs can typically accommodate the XXL more comfortably, including sufficient rear-hatch clearance when mounted correctly. Many US vehicle-specific reviews discuss fitment experiences, which can help shoppers gauge overhang and ease of use.

For US consumers, the Motion XT XXL is commonly available through online channels that offer home shipment or ship-to-store options. Because of its size, some retailers highlight curbside pickup or in-store collection rather than standard parcel delivery. Shoppers comparing rooftop cargo solutions may also weigh the Motion XT XXL against soft-sided roof bags and hitch-mounted cargo carriers. The hard-shell design offers better protection from weather and road debris than most soft bags and avoids the exhaust exposure of rear-mounted baskets, but it requires a roof rack and appropriate lifting effort for installation.

From Thule's perspective, large-capacity cargo solutions like the Motion XT XXL align with its broader strategy of selling premium transport accessories that enable active lifestyles, including roof racks, bike carriers, and stroller systems. For households that already own Thule racks or bike mounts, adding a Motion XT XXL can extend the existing system for longer trips without changing vehicles. Shares of Thule Group AB (SE0006422390, ticker THULE) last traded on the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange at a price level quoted in Swedish krona, and US investors typically access the stock via international brokerage platforms using that listing.

This article was created with a.i. assistance and editorially reviewed. Product information is provided without warranty; prices and availability may change at any time. Not investment advice, not a buy or sell recommendation. Trading in securities carries risks up to the total loss of capital.