Q: I have two vehicles, a 2003 VW Passat Wagon and a 2007 Volvo XC 90. I’m looking to equip them with a Thule system, and both have factory rails–so I believe I’ll require the Thule Crossroads 450. However, I’m unsure whether the 50″ or the 58″ Thule load bars will be sufficient, or will I need different size bars to accommodate the VW and Volvo?
A: Yes, both vehicles will use the Thule 450 CrossRoad Roof Rack System. It is true that the Volvo takes the 58” load bars and the VW takes the 50” bars. However, you could still use the 58” bars on the VW if you don’t mind the extra 4 inches on either side.
And, while the Volvo does call for the 58” bars you may be able to trim them down once you mount them and see how they fit. Thule only lists the minimum bar length you can use, but since they only sell the bars in certain lengths it is possible you could get away with something in between 50” and 58”. They are easy to cut down with a hack saw.
We also have a couple of 450 packages that include locks that will save you a bit of money if you were to buy the rack and locks separately since the racks do not come with the locks. One package comes with the 58” bars and one comes with the 50” bars.
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