Thule Motion XT (L – XL – XXL) Rooftop Cargo Carrier Review

Thule Motion XT is one of the most popular cargo boxes on the market today. It’s available in 3 sizes: L (16 cu. ft.), XL (18 cu. ft.) and XXL (22 cu. ft.).

Today we will find out how Thule Motion XT compares to competition. This review is based on Motion XT XL however L and XXL models are nearly identical other than dimensions, weight and storage capacity so most of the conclusions should apply to them as well.

Storage

As previously mentioned Thule Motion XT XL provides you with 18 cubic feet (510 liters) of storage space which is more than trunk space of most sedans. Because of its shape you can fit long items that wouldn’t fit in trunk of a car like skis or snowboards. You can fit a lot of stuff in 18 cubic feet. Industry average is 15 cubic feet which is enough for most consumers and this one is slightly larger.

Thule Motion XT XL has load capacity of 165 lbs including the box so since it weighs 46 lbs you can load it with 119 lbs of stuff.

Unlike most cargo boxes which open only from passenger side Thule Motion XT opens from both.

Quality

Just like expected from Thule the Motion XT cargo box is well made and sturdy.

Water resistance

Thule Motion XT XL is somewhat water resistant but it’s not completely waterproof. During rain it’s likely some moisture will get inside and sometimes small amounts of water can too.

Noise and fuel economy

Any cargo carrier on your rooftop will increase drag and therefore noise and fuel consumption – the question is by how much. Thule Motion XT XL is aerodynamically shaped so it has smaller impact than most other rooftop cargo boxes or bags. It doesn’t create much noise while driving at 65 mph – you can hear it but it’s not noisy, with a radio on you probably won’t notice it. It does decrease mileage too but not by much.

Lock

Thule Motion XT has built-in lock and comes with a key. It’s a bit finicky but it does work. Surely they could have made a better lock considering Motion XT is not cheap but it’s a minor gripe.

Installation

Thule Motion XT XL is simple to install and whole process just takes few minutes. Put the cargo box on top of your vehicle, unlock it, adjust clamps and tighten them until they start to click.

Dimensions

Thule Motion XT XXL measures 84.5 inches long, 36 inches wide and 17 inches high. Internal dimensions are 79″ by 31.5″ by 15″.

Conclusions

Thule Motion XT is a bit expensive but for a reason – it’s a really good cargo box.

Thule Motion XT (L – XL – XXL) Rooftop Cargo Carrier Box Details/Specs

• Thule Motion XT L (Large)
  • Storage capacity: 16 cubic feet
  • Weight: 42 lbs
  • Load capacity (including weight of cargo box): 165 lbs
  • Load capacity (excluding weight of cargo box): 123 lbs
  • External dimensions: 77″ x 36″ x 17″ (L x W x H)
  • Internal dimensions: 69″ x 31.5″ x 15″ (L x W x H)
  • Height off crossbar: 15.5”
  • Max length of skis: 175 cm
  • Model number: 629706
  • Check price on Amazon.com
    
    

• Thule Motion XT XL (Extra Large)
  • Storage capacity: 18 cubic feet
  • Weight: 46 lbs
  • Load capacity: (including weight of cargo box): 165 lbs
  • Load capacity: (excluding weight of cargo box): 119 lbs
  • External dimensions: 84.5” x 36” x 17” (L x W x H)
  • Internal dimensions: 79” x 31.5” x 15” (L x W x H)
  • Height off crossbar: 16”
  • Max length of skis: 200 cm
  • Model number: 629806
  • Check price on Amazon.com
    
    

• Thule Motion XT XXL (Extra Extra Large)
  • Storage capacity: 22 cubic feet
  • Weight: 55 lbs
  • Load capacity (including weight of cargo box): 165 lbs
  • Load capacity (excluding weight of cargo box): 110 lbs
  • External dimensions: 91.5″ x 37.5″ x 18″ (L x W x H)
  • Internal dimensions: 84.5″ x 33″ x 16″ (L x W x H)
  • Height off crossbar: 17”
  • Max length of skis: 215 cm
  • Model number: 629906
  • Check price on Amazon.com