Thule Hyper XL Roof Box Review
We mentioned recently how 56Nord is developing roof top cargo carriers that's been fitted to supercars. Unfortunately they are only protoypes. But not to worry. Thule has something that won't just match the 56Nord's style but also has the benefit of a comprehensive range of accessories to extend it's usability.
Thule describes the Hyper XL as an exclusive, sleek, and convenient roof box. I have to agree, it sure looks good. The two-toned design featuring a large raised "X" makes it look absolutely fantastic. Its sleek looks belies the ample 17 cu ft storage capacity it offers. The Hyper XL should not be confused with the very similar Thule Excellence XL that is marketed outside North America.
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What we like
- Very easy to install
- Decent load capacity
- Makes any car look good
What we don't like
- It's possible to break the key off in the core when releasing the lid
- Glossy finish can scratch easily
- Pricey
You don't have to put an ugly box on your nice car
I'm sure you've seen a really nice car with an ugly roof rack or cargo box on it and vowed never to do the same thing to your pride and joy. The designers at Thule probably thought the same and responded by designing the Hyper XL roof box. They've managed to take a product that's quite awkward in nature and make it so beautiful it will actually add style to many vehicles. The pointy 'Aeronose' reduces drag, wind noise and makes it look sleek and aggressive. A perfect match for your perfect wheels.
What’s included and what's not
Something you might want to consider adding is a a cargo net that will further secure the load inside the carbox. If you are transporting skis the Hyper XL can be fitted with a ski mounting bar that allows skis to be secured inside the box easily.
Overview of features
The Thule Rooftop cargo boxes are made from "durable 5 layer ABS plastic extrusion with acrylic and UV protection". What??!! That is geek speak for "made from hard, durable plastic that won't fade in the sun". Thule claims that their cargo boxes contain up to 80% recycled material. The bottom line is that it's tough, but do take care. As with all high gloss items, scratches show up easily.
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With a box this size it's important not to impede access to the rear hatch or window of your car. The Hyper XL has an angled rear base that accommodates most vehicles. The mounting hardware can also be adjusted allowing you to position the cargo box as far forward as possible. Again this improves access to the rear hatch of the vehicle, but it also allows the box to be mounted on smaller vehicles .
The dual articulating lid hinges allow for DualSide opening so gear can be loaded from either side of the vehicle. The 'AeroNose' design is claimed to reduce drag and wind noise, but I have found that even Thule Roof Boxes without the AeroNose are amazingly quiet.
One of the best features of this cargo box can be found on the inside. The Acutight mounting system provides tactile and audible feedback when tightening the knob. It's awesome. Another small feature that makes using this box a pleasure is the LED light integrated into the lid hinges. This makes packing and unpacking or even just finding something in this mammoth box in the dark a lot easier.
There aren't many things missing from the Hyper XL, but the one improvement I would love to see on this box is the addition of the SlideLock function as found on the Thule Motion XT cargo box. The SlideLock mechanism provides seperate locking and opening functions. With the Hyper XL these functions are combined which means you have to unlock and release the lid with the key. On a few occassions I felt like I might break the key off in the lock core. Something I'd rather avoid.
Basic installation
With the box resting on the load bars, move it all the way forward. This allows for maximum clearance for the car's boot lid to open. Position the cargo box in the middle of the roof rack unless you are planning to add additional accessories like a bike rack.
Thule uses the 'AcuTight' mounting system. It is designed to provide audio and tactile feedback when the proper clamping force is achieved. To secure the box the the roof rack, open either side of the box using the supplied key. The lid will not open unless the key is in the lock. You also cannot remove the key while the lid is still open. Tighten the clamps by turning the knobs until you hear one or more clicks. This indicates that it is sufficiently tightened. If you cannot reach the thightening knobs on the far side of the cargo box, close the lid, remove the key and open the lid from the other side. When all clamps are sufficiently tightened, close the lid and open boot lid to check for proper clearance.
That's it. You're ready to hit the road.
Alternative cargo boxes
If the possibility of the key breaking off in the lock is a big enough concern to keep looking, then have a look at the Thule Motion XT cargo box. It features Thule's SlideLock mechanism that provides seperate locking and opening functions combined with most of the benefits of the Hyper XL.
If the price is a concern, you can always consider the Yakima SkyBox. This cargo box provides similar features but at a slightly better price point than the Hyper XL.
For more information, check out our reviews of these two alternatives to the Thule Hyper XL below.
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Conclusion.
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