Which roof rack is best for the Infiniti QX60 Luxe?

Question

Just got a 2023 QX60 Luxe and we're heading to Colorado next month so I need a roof rack setup ASAP. Stuck between the Thule WingBar Edge and the Yakima JetStream systems. The dealer offered OEM crossbars but they look kinda cheap compared to the aftermarket stuff.

My main concerns:

wind noise on the highway (wife hates whistling sounds)

making sure the panoramic sunroof still opens without hitting the bars

budget under $650

The Thule looks way sleeker but it is definitely pricier. Is the Yakima just as quiet or should I just suck it up and pay for the Thule? Need to order by Friday so we aren't cramped with gear...

fhusismmtq · Accepted Answer

Like someone mentioned, going aftermarket is a smart move. I've used several setups over the years and I'm really satisfied with the Yakima JetStream Crossbars 50 inch Black paired with Yakima TimberLine Towers.

Yakima JetStream: The teardrop shape kills wind noise and it fits your $650 budget easily.

Rhino-Rack Vortex StealthBar Black: Another solid option that's very low profile, tho clearance can be tight with some sunroofs. Honestly, the Yakima works well and is much easier on the wallet than Thule.

ndgrmjvrkn · Answer

Saw this earlier and had to jump in because those OEM bars look so flimsy! I wouldnt trust them for a big trip. Safety is huge for me so I got the Thule WingBar Edge 95cm Black and they feel so solid!

Pano roof clears easily!

Noise is basically zero even at 80mph.

The Yakima JetStream Crossbars 50 inch are also a fantastic, super reliable choice!

wjqrretvhl · Answer

Unfortunately, I've had some pretty bad experiences with those ultra-low profile racks on vehicles with panoramic roofs. They look amazing in the catalog but once you actually mount them, the clearance is often a total disaster. I tried a similar setup on a QX60 last year and we basically couldnt use the sunroof at all without it grinding against the crossbar. It was super disappointing considering the high price point. If you're worried about safety and noise, I'd suggest looking at the Thule WingBar Evo 118cm Black paired with the Thule Evo Flush Rail towers. Its not as flush as the Edge series, which ngl is a bit of a letdown visually, but that extra height is a lifesaver for the glass. The T-track design is way better for avoiding that annoying whistling sound your wife is worried about too. Another option that fits your $650 budget is the Inno Aero Base System with XB115 and XB108 Bars. I've found their stay systems to be much more robust than the Yakima ones, which sometimes feel a bit too plastic-y for my taste. Just make sure the rubber seals are seated perfectly... if theres even a tiny gap, you're gonna hear it on the highway. Honestly, just stay away from the dealer bars, they're barely better than luggage straps.