For Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro owners, gearing up for adventure often means needing extra cargo space. When it comes to hauling skis, snowboards, and other bulky equipment, a roof cargo box is an essential accessory. However, the unique tubular roof rack of the 2019-and-newer Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro presents a specific challenge when selecting a compatible cargo box. Many owners, like myself, have discovered that finding a box that fits well and allows full functionality can be surprisingly difficult. After extensive research and trial-and-error, I’m sharing my findings to help you navigate the process of choosing the perfect cargo box for your Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro.
The TRD Pro Rack Challenge
The primary issue lies in the design of the TRD Pro roof rack. Unlike typical flush side rails, the TRD Pro features a tubular, basket-style rack. This design, while rugged and visually appealing, creates complications for mounting traditional cargo boxes.
Boxes designed with recessed channels to accommodate standard crossbars often prove incompatible. These recessed channels are intended to sit flush against flat crossbars, and the tubular shape of the TRD Pro rack prevents this flush mounting. Shifting crossbars alone won’t solve this fundamental mismatch, as I discovered when attempting to fit a low-profile INNO box.
Another critical factor is rear hatch clearance. Many cargo boxes, even if they can physically mount to the TRD Pro rack, are positioned too far back, obstructing the full opening of the rear hatch. For many owners, including myself, maintaining full hatch access is non-negotiable.
Flat-Bottomed Boxes: A Potential Solution
Recognizing these challenges, I shifted my focus to cargo boxes with flat bottoms. Thule, a well-known brand in roof rack accessories, offers several flat-bottomed options, including models long enough to accommodate even lengthy skis.
During a visit to a local rack and road shop in Seattle, experienced professionals helped test-fit various boxes on my 4Runner TRD Pro. We quickly eliminated boxes that collided with the rear tubular bars of the rack. After trying several models, we finally found a compatible Thule box. Its upswept rear edge provided the necessary clearance, even when mounted on crossbars positioned on the lower tube of the TRD Pro rack.
Thule cargo box mounted on top crossbars of a Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro roof rack.
Side view of a Thule roof box installed on the TRD Pro rack of a Toyota 4Runner.
Close-up showing the mounting of a Thule cargo box to the tubular roof rack of a Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro.
Mounting Options and Considerations
The Thule box ultimately worked well when mounted on crossbars positioned on the top tube of the rack, as initially tested. However, for an even lower profile and potentially improved aerodynamics, we explored mounting on the lower tube of the rack.
Positioning the crossbars on the lower tube proved successful. The Thule box sat nestled lower, with just millimeters of clearance from the rear lateral tubes. Critically, this lower mounting position still allowed the rear hatch to open fully without obstruction.
Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro with a Thule cargo box mounted on lower crossbars, allowing full rear hatch opening.
Angle view of the Thule cargo box on a Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, demonstrating hatch clearance.
Close-up of the rear clearance between the Thule cargo box and the TRD Pro roof rack on a Toyota 4Runner.
While the front overhang was slightly more pronounced than ideal, it was deemed acceptable for practical use. However, one minor inconvenience emerged: accessing the key and lock mechanism. Due to the box’s position relative to the top tube of the rack, the lock became somewhat difficult to reach. While perhaps a minor annoyance, especially in freezing conditions or when the rack is covered in snow, it’s a factor to consider. One could even argue that the slightly obscured lock adds a measure of security.
Front overhang of the Thule cargo box on a Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro, mounted on the lower roof rack position.
Difficult key and lock access on a Thule cargo box due to the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro roof rack design.
Conclusion: Finding Your TRD Pro Cargo Solution
Choosing a cargo box for your Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro requires careful consideration of the unique roof rack design. Prioritize flat-bottomed boxes and be prepared to test fit different models to ensure both compatibility with the tubular rack and sufficient rear hatch clearance. While brands like Thule offer viable solutions, it’s always best to verify fitment in person if possible. By understanding the specific challenges and exploring the right options, you can equip your TRD Pro for any adventure with the added cargo capacity you need.
