during a ski holiday, most cars reach their limits: luggage becomes excessive. Then a roof box helps. But the quality of different models varies greatly.
Even the largest SUV adn longest station wagon aren’t big enough for some vacations. When it comes to storing ski equipment as well as suitcases and bags, there is often no longer enough space for luggage. The solution is represented by roof boxes that can be fixed to the car. Just in time for the season ADAC tested which models you can rely on and which manufacturer urgently needs to make improvements.
In the comparison test, 13 compact roof boxes had to compete with each other; a VW Golf was used as the test car.Boxes with a price between 300 and 900 euros were tested. Spoiler: more expensive is not automatically better.
In the test, the ADAC said it paid particular attention to safety-relevant aspects, namely “crash behavior and stability during evasive manoeuvres”. Handling, construction and machining also played a role.However, if a roof box failed in terms of crash safety, the final grade could be only half a degree better than the crash verdict, irrespective of the results of the other tests.
This actually occurred several times in the current comparison, as two models failed the crash test. Both the Evospace TEF XL roof box from Northline
Roof boxes from some car manufacturers are at the forefront of the testing field. With a score of 1.9 Audi managed to secure first place with the ski and luggage box, followed closely by the Thule Motion 3 XL Low. the Mercedes-Benz M roof box came in third place with 829 euros. What locations 2 and 3 share is less water infiltration during the rain test. Not a broken leg,but it’s something to keep in mind.
Given the huge prices charged by well-known manufacturers, it is worth taking a look at the value for money winner. As the ADAC says: “A sensible roof box doesn’t have to cost a lot.” If you can do without a little comfort, you should Norauto Bermuda 300 to 350 euros take into consideration. It received a “good” rating (2.5). However, depending on the request, you should take a closer look at the weak points. Testers noted that, such as, skis longer than 170 centimeters cannot fit and that opening is only possible from one side.
The ADAC warns against roof boxes due to an unusual problem: Even though the BMW 420 roof box for 902 euros received the rating “good” (2.3), it has a decisive disadvantage. The model can only be used with original BMW roof racks, therefore it is unusable for third-party brands. If you buy this box, you should stay loyal to the brand if you want the roof box to serve you well for a long time.
In addition to a handful of tips for manufacturers and drivers, the ADAC finally highlights the roof load. The club writes: ”The permissible payload in a roof box depends on the permissible roof load, specified in the car’s operating instructions. This means that the self-weight of the box and roof rack must be deducted from the roof load . to calculate the payload to be investigated.”
Models with a high deadweight, such as the 23.9 kg Mercedes M roof box, severely limit the payload due to their design. You should also consider this before purchasing.
How do I choose the right roof box for my ski vacation needs?
Interview Setting: A Cozy Ski Lodge café – Warm Drinks and a View of Snowy Slopes
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today, I’m excited to discuss an essential topic for winter travel enthusiasts: roof boxes! With us is Dr.Mia Schuster, an automotive equipment expert and consultant for ADAC. Mia, thank you for joining us at this gorgeous ski lodge!
Dr. Mia Schuster: Thank you for having me! It’s the perfect setting to talk about ski vacations, isn’t it?
Time.news Editor: Absolutely! Now, we certainly know that when families head off for a ski holiday, the challenge of packing frequently enough exceeds the limits of their vehicles. Can you explain why roof boxes have become such a popular solution?
Dr. Mia Schuster: Yes, of course! As vehicle sizes have evolved, even the largest SUVs and station wagons can struggle with space—especially when you’re packing not just ski gear, but also suitcases and bags for the whole family. Roof boxes provide that extra storage we desperately need. They can securely carry equipment while freeing up space inside the vehicle for passengers.
Time.news Editor: That sounds like a practical solution! Though, I’ve heard that not all roof boxes are created equal. What factors should travelers consider when choosing a model?
Dr. Mia schuster: That’s very true! The quality of roof boxes can vary significantly across brands. Travelers should consider a few key factors:
- Capacity: ensure the box can hold your specific gear—ski equipment, snowboards, luggage, etc.
- Aerodynamics: A roof box that’s designed to minimize drag will help maintain fuel efficiency.
- Locking Mechanisms: Security is vital, so look for models with robust locking systems.
- Ease of Installation: Some boxes can be mounted quickly, while others require tools and effort.
- Weight Limit: It’s important to check the weight limits of both the roof box and your vehicle’s roof rack.
Time.news Editor: Great tips! I understand that ADAC recently conducted tests on various roof box models. What were some standout findings or surprises from those tests?
Dr. Mia Schuster: The results were indeed eye-opening! As an example, some models that are widely advertised did not perform and also expected in terms of sturdiness and ease of use.A few brands consistently excelled,earning high marks for their build quality and functionality,while others urgently need to make improvements,particularly in terms of safety features and user-friendliness.
Time.news Editor: that kind of insight is invaluable for our readers! Speaking of safety features, how important is it for consumers to look at safety ratings when selecting a roof box?
Dr. Mia Schuster: It’s incredibly important. Roof boxes can affect vehicle handling, especially in adverse weather conditions, so understanding the safety ratings and recommendations can be crucial. A roof box should have undergone rigorous testing to ensure it remains securely fastened during the drive and that it doesn’t compromise the stability of the vehicle.
Time.news Editor: Fantastic data, Mia. As we wrap up, any final advice for those heading out on winter adventures this season?
Dr. Mia Schuster: Absolutely! Take the time to properly load your roof box to distribute weight evenly and check that everything is secured before you hit the road. And, of course, always familiarize yourself with the highway regulations regarding the height and load of your vehicle when you’re carrying a roof box.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, dr. Schuster. Your expert insights will surely help our readers make informed decisions for their ski trips!
Dr. Mia Schuster: Thank you! Enjoy the slopes and safe travels to everyone!
[End of Interview]
Time.news Editor: And for our readers, stay tuned for more engaging discussions and tips as we navigate the world of travel and automotive equipment together!