Not all cargo boxes are created equal. If you’re comparing options for extra car storage, versatility, and everyday practicality, IXTAbox deserves a closer look.
Roofboxes may be the long-standing standard, but rear-mounted cargo boxes are quickly earning attention for their ease of access, stability, and smarter use of space. Here’s how IXTAbox stacks up against top competitors in the market, feature by feature.
IXTAbox vs The Competition
IXTAbox
THULE Arcos (L)
MFT BackBox
Dimensions
190/175 x 45 x 57 cm
171 x 78 x 54 cm
154/172/190 x 45 x 57 cm
Volume
390 / 360 L
400 L
300 / 312 / 326 L
Total Weight (Including Fixation System)
30 / 29 / 28 Kg
29 Kg
28 Kg
Load Capacity
100 Kg
50 Kg
57 Kg
Is it Customizable?
Is it Height Adjustable?
Can You Mount Equipment on Top?
Can You Stand on It / Use It as a Table
Can it be equipped with LED Lights Inside?
Build Materials
Aluminium body and stainless steel reinforcement
Plastic body and stainless steel platform
Plastic body and stainless steel platform
Can You Take Bicylces?
Up to 2
Can You Take Skis?
Up to 190 / 175 cm in the box // Longer on the lid
Up to 170 cm
With extra attachments
Can You Take Kites and Surfboards?
Up to 190 / 170 cm
Up to 170 cm
With extra attachments
Can You Take Golf bags?
At least 2 to 3 bags
Up to 2
Up to 2
How Many Bags Can You Take?
Up to 6
Up to 6
Up to 4
Dimensions and Volume
IXTAbox comes in two versions:
- Pro Line: 175x42 cm (360 litres) or 190x42 cm (390 litres).
- Classic Line: 175x42 cm (360 litres).
Thule offers smaller dimensions to choose from, which can limit your cargo capacity and flexibility.
Weight and Load Capacity
IXTAbox has a total weight including the mount that ranges from 28 kg to 30 kg, with a load capacity of up to 100 kg*. Compared to Thule and MFT BackBoxes, which have a lower load capacity (around 50 kg), IXTAbox is clearly superior, especially when you need to transport longer and heavier items.
Ergonomics and Accessibility
Some of the major advantages of IXTAbox are its user-friendliness and ergonomics. Unlike roofboxes that can be difficult and sometimes dangerous to reach, IXTAbox is positioned at waist height, making it much easier to load and unload. This increases safety and convenience, especially with frequent use.
Aerodynamics and Fuel Efficiency
IXTAbox is designed with improved aerodynamics which reduces air resistance and thereby improves fuel efficiency. Roofboxes, including the best roofboxes from Thule, significantly increase air resistance which leads to higher fuel consumption. With an IXTAbox, you avoid these problems and can enjoy smoother and more economical driving.
Quality and Durability
IXTAbox is manufactured in Sweden from high-quality materials such as aluminum and stainless steel. This construction provides superior durability compared to the plastic boxes from Thule and MFT, ensuring long-lasting use even under tough conditions.
Additional Features
Internal LED lights for better visibility during dark winter months.
Stronger hinges and integrated handles for easier handling.
Adjustable in height and possibility to mount equipment on top.
The Best Cargo Box Is Not a Roof Box
Searching for the best cargo box for your car often means comparing a range of rear-mounted and rooftop solutions. While roofboxes remain popular, more drivers are switching to cargo boxes that offer better loading height, improved accessibility, and safer handling. IXTAbox combines these benefits with customisation, bike-mounting capability, premium materials, and built-in lighting.
