SportRack vista cargo box review

SportRack Vista XL Cargo Box

Last Updated on January 8, 2024

You are searching for a SportRack Vista XL cargo box, and you can find what you need to know here. We have done tons of research online for you to find out if the SportRack Vista cargo box is excellent or poor. In this article, first, you will find some general info about the SportRack Vista cargo box; furthermore, you will also discover some user feedback and alternatives. 

using sportrack vista xl cargo box on the top of your vehicle

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By using the links below, you can buy SportRack vista roof boxes on Ebay and Amazon.

General Info

Capacity

SportRack Vista cargo box is a large storage space for your vehicle, and the loading capacity is 18 cubic feet. You can quickly assemble it on top of your car within minutes without a problem because the roof box fits on most of the factory crossbars. 

Material

The SportRack Vista cargo box is a combination of high-quality ABS materials, and it is waterproof, sturdy, durable, and UV-resistant. You can use it in extreme weather conditions without a problem. 

Installation

When it comes to the installation, it is super easy to operate with bare hands. However, when you carry the roof box up to the top of your vehicle, we recommend you call someone else to help you with that because the SportRack Vista roof box is large. Four U-bolts can securely and accurately connect the roof box to the crossbars, so you won’t need to worry about losing it when your car is in motion. If your car has a bare roof, you can consider using these roof racks without roof rails.

use U-bolts to connect the roof rack and the bottom of cargo box
U-bolts

Rear-Opening

SportRack Vista has a rear-opening feature that allows you to open the roof box from the back of it. On the market, the rear-opening function is rare and unique, and there are a few roof boxes that have that feature; consequently, if you prefer to open a cargo box from the back of it, SportRack Vista is the right pick.

rear open is a unique feature of the sportrack cargo box
rear-opening feature
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Easy rear accessibility

When you are ready to install the SportRack Vista roof box on the crossbars, you have to ensure that two bars are between min-23 5/8″ – max-29 3/4″ (60.0075cm – 75.565cm). 

The SportRack company offers a limited lifetime warranty to its customer, so you can enjoy effective customer service for life after buying the SportRack Vista cargo box.

What is in the package box?

When you receive your SportRack Vista XL cargo box, there were a roof box and many other accessories. 

accessories of sportrack vista
  • 4 U-bolts
  • 8 Threaded Knobs
  • 4 U-bolt Plates
  • 4 Reinforcing plates
  • 1 Vinyl Hole Cover
  • 2 Keys

How to clean your SportRack Vista XL cargo box?

According to the manufacturer’s advice, you need to clean the roof box with mild soap and water. However, we have published an article about “how to clean a car roof box” that will help you fully clean your roof box in steps. 

What to do if I lost my key?

If you lost or broke the key of SportRack Vista XL, you have to contact customer service to ask for assistance at 800-238-2388 or through the official site at www.sportrack.com.

PDFs that help

Installation Manual

User Guide

Application Guide

User Videos of SportRack Vista Cargo Box

How to install a SportRack roof box

step-by-step video shows you how to install a car roof box on top of a car

SportRack Cargo Box Intro Video

https://youtu.be/k853h_CoJ_E

What do people say about the SportRack Vista XL cargo box?

SportRack Vista cargo box on desk
put a SportRack Vista cargo box on the desk and get ready for installation
SportRack vista cargo box after installation
after installation what does it look like
review scores of sportrack vista
929 people rated SprotRack vista xl cargo box on Amazon with their feedback, and the results are pretty positive. 2020/12/31 results (it changes as the time goes)
  • User No.1
    I had enjoyed a 1200 miles road trip with it, and it performed well. Honestly, I had overloaded it for a little, but it was working fine and quietly. In my experience, I do not recommend driving faster than 80 mph with a roof box because the wind can stress out the mounting points. I put seven people’s luggage into the roof box without a problem, and I spent 15 minutes assembling the SportRack Vista XL cargo box. The removal was as easy as the installation. I do not recommend using the Vista cargo box to carry skis or snowboards.
  • User No.2
    I bought it for my SUV, and it worked fine. When I installed it, I asked my wife to help with carrying the roof box on top of our high SUV. We put our two 150 -160 cm snowboards, two kids boards, four pairs of boots, and two helmets into the roof box for a winter family vacation trip. I am 180cm high, and it’s a little bit hard for me to reach the lock to open our roof box; however, my husband is high enough to do that. The lock system looks pretty cheap and weak, so I recommend replacing it with a good-quality lock.
  • User No.3
    I have a family with six people and a dog. Before getting the SportRack Vista XL roof box, we used a soft bag as our cargo carrier for family road journeys. We did not like the soft bag at all because it was hard to use. We purchased the SportRack Vista cargo box from Amazon, and the delivery service was fast and convenient. We loved the quality and condition of the roof box when it came to our home. It fitted to the rack system on our Honda Odyssey, and I spent 10 minutes attaching it to the crossbars. I drove at 75-85 mph on my road trip, and I did not hear too much wind noise. Besides, I did not recognize any extra costs on my gas mileage. However, I believed that if I do calculate the numbers, there should be a little reduction. When the package box arrived at my home, I could find that the Thule company is running the business by reading the info documents inside the package box. My family uses a roof box two to three times a year, so the SportRack Vista XL is useful and affordable. If you plan to use a cargo box at a high frequency, I recommend investing in an expensive one like Thule’s cargo boxes.
  • User No.4
    I purchased this thing for a 1785 mi road trip. I used it to carry my stuff and it performed great! I did have an issue when I tried to close the lid because I had too much in there, but after rearranging things, it finally closed. It is a little bulky when fully loaded, but no water or dirt got in at all. In Texas, we were able to get up to 90 mph for a good stretch of the interstate. Reviews on other sites said that they heard whistling when they got up to around 80 mph, but we didn’t have any issues at all when driving.
  • Read More Feedback on Amazon

More You May Need To Know About SportRack Vista Cargo Boxes

Installing a Sportrack cargo box on your car is a great way to increase your storage capacity. The Sportrack is easy to install and can be attached to most cars in just a few minutes. It’s also very sturdy, so you can be sure your belongings will be safe and secure while you’re driving. These Boxes fit most cars and crossbars, so you don’t need to worry too much about compatibility issues. However, you have to check the bar spread (the distance between two rack bars) before getting a SportRack Vista roof box. If the bar spread is out of the range, you may need to drill new holes at the bottom of the box to make it fit the roof racks.

use a Sportrack VISTA XL CARGO BOX FOR family road trip in summer or winter

The Sportrack cargo box is perfect for road trips or long drives. It gives you plenty of extra storage space, which can come in handy for packing snacks, drinks, and other items. Plus, it’s a great way to keep your car clean and organized. You can watch the above video to learn the steps of installing one on top of your vehicle.

It is easy to install and can be used to store a variety of items, including sporting equipment, luggage, and holiday decorations.

The Sportrack cargo box is made from high-quality materials (ABS Plastic) and features durable construction. It is also aerodynamic, which helps to reduce wind noise and drag.

The cargo box is a great way to transport items from one place to another. It is also a great way to keep those items safe. The cargo box can be put on the roof of a car. This will allow the car to transport the cargo box and the items that are in it. There are a lot of different ways to get your stuff from one place to another. You can put it in the car, you can put it on a bike, you can carry it, or you can use a cargo box. Cargo boxes have been growing in popularity in recent years, and there are a few reasons for that.

The first reason is that they’re incredibly versatile. They can be used for transporting anything from furniture to tools to groceries. They’re also a great way to keep your stuff safe (rooftop cargo boxes are the most secure options on the market). The second reason is that they’re easy to use. You just put them on your car’s roof and attach them with the included clamps or straps, and you’re good to go. Finally, cargo boxes are a great way to save money on gas. By carrying your stuff instead of driving with it, you can save fuel and reduce your carbon footprint.

If you’re looking for a cargo box, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The first is size. Make sure you get a cargo box that’s the right size for your needs (we find the biggest cargo boxes). The second is weight capacity. Make sure the cargo box you choose can hold the weight of what you plan to put in it (you also need to follow the car roof loading limit to load the roof box). The third is material. There are a few different materials to choose from, but ABS plastic is typically the lightest and most durable option. (Sportrack Horizon is also available for consideration)

how much luggage you can pack in a SportRack Vista XL cargo box

Once you’ve chosen a cargo box, there are a few things you need to know before using it. First, make sure you read the instructions carefully and follow them closely. Second, make sure the car’s roof is strong enough (car roof loading limit) to support the weight of the cargo box. And finally, always use the included straps to secure the cargo box to the car. (some accessories for cargo boxes)

Most cargo boxes have a number of different locking mechanisms to keep the contents safe while the car is in transit. They can also be equipped with a number of different features, such as a built-in light (SportRack Vista doesn’t have internal lights) or a weatherproof seal.

There are a few different ways to adjust the crossbars on a car roof. The first way is to remove the crossbars from the roof rack and re-install them in the desired position. The second way is to loosen the bolt or clamps that hold the crossbar in place, adjust the position of the crossbar, and then tighten the bolt again. The third way is to use the adjustment screws on the side of the roof rack to change the position of the crossbars. You can refer to another post to check the best position of cargo boxes on a car roof.

U-bolt are used for mounting the sportrack vista cargo box on crossbars

You cannot use the SportRack Vista roof box without crossbars, and you don’t try to DIY a car roof holder for roof boxes because cargo boxes need crossbars to safely stay on top of your car, especially when it is in motion. There are more questions and answers that you may need to check before action. A well-organized beginner guide can help a lot, and you can find more cargo options there.

SportRack Vista XL Roof Cargo Boxes Gallery

Compare SportRack Vista XL and Thule Motion XT

When it comes to traveling, whether it’s a family road trip or an outdoor adventure, there are plenty of solutions available to ensure you have enough space for all your gear. One great option is a rooftop cargo box, which can transform your vehicle into a versatile and efficient cargo-hauling machine. In this article, we’ll explore two popular options in the market: the SportRack Vista and the Thule Motion XT. By comparing these two models, we aim to provide you with valuable insights that will help you make an informed decision and find the perfect cargo box to meet your specific needs. Get ready for a stress-free and organized journey!

Take a moment to explore the outstanding features that set the SportRack Vista apart from the competition. First and foremost, this remarkable cargo box offers an impressive 18 cubic feet of storage space, ensuring more than enough room for all your essentials. From camping gear to skiing equipment, or even a bicycle, you can trust that this cargo box will accommodate it all. What’s more, its sleek and aerodynamic design not only enhances its visual appeal but also minimizes wind resistance. This not only results in reduced fuel consumption but also showcases your commitment to preserving our environment. Choose the SportRack Vista for a truly exceptional cargo-carrying experience!

In addition to its spaciousness, the SportRack Vista also offers ease-of-use features that are hard to beat. The cargo box opens from the rear side, allowing for convenient loading and unloading. Furthermore, the quick-release mounting system ensures a secure and hassle-free installation, saving you both time and effort. With the SportRack Vista, you can hit the road in no time and focus on enjoying your adventure.

Thule Motion XT vs SportRack Vista XL

Now, let’s turn our attention to the strengths of the Thule Motion XT. One of the standout features of this cargo box is its premium build quality. Made from durable and UV-resistant materials, the Thule Motion XT is built to withstand the harshest elements, ensuring that your belongings stay safe and protected. Its reinforced lid and advanced locking system add an extra layer of security, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey.

When it comes to compatibility and pricing, both the SportRack Vista and the Thule Motion XT have their advantages. The SportRack Vista is compatible with a wide range of crossbars, including round, square, and most factory crossbars. This makes it a versatile choice for almost any vehicle. On the other hand, the Thule Motion XT offers a dual-side opening system with a grip-friendly lid handle, making it easy to access your gear from either side of the vehicle. As for pricing, both models are competitively priced, offering excellent value for money.

To truly understand the performance and reliability of these cargo boxes, it’s important to hear from the real winners – the consumers. In numerous reviews, customers have praised the SportRack Vista for its affordability and spaciousness. They have also commended its durability and ease of installation. Similarly, the Thule Motion XT has garnered rave reviews for its sleek design, secure locking system, and overall quality. It’s clear that both options have a loyal fan base.

In conclusion, choosing the perfect cargo box for your adventure ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. The SportRack Vista and the Thule Motion XT are two great options that offer plenty of storage space, durability, and ease of use. Whether you prioritize affordability, compatibility, or advanced features, both these cargo boxes are winners in their own right. So, go ahead and make your choice, knowing that you’re investing in a high-quality product that will enhance your travel experience. Happy travels!

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