Hi there! I totally get the concern about MPG and noise—it’s a real worry when you’re adding stuff to the roof! For your situation, I would suggest the Yakima LoadWarrior Cargo Basket. I've been using it on my own XV for a while now and I absolutely love it!

It fits the stock crossbars like a glove, but honestly, you have to be super careful with the weight limits on those factory bars. I always recommend double-checking your manual because overloading can be dangerous! Here’s why I think this one is amazing:

* The included wind fairing is fantastic for reducing that annoying whistle.
* It’s a sturdy steel build, so it feels really secure for camping gear.
* The size isn't too bulky, keeping the car's sleek look.

That said, any basket will hit your MPG a little bit. Anyway, back to your question—it’s a solid choice! Hope this helps! Let me know if you need more info.

Hi there! Just found this thread and wanted to add a quick technical tip. If you're worried about MPG, you might want to consider a low-profile tray like the Rhino-Rack Pioneer Platform versus a traditional basket like the Kuat Vagabond X. The platform is WAY more aerodynamic and cuts down on teh wind drag significantly. Pro tip: Check out the 'Fit My Vehicle' tool on the Rhino-Rack website to ensure it clears your hatch. Also, make sure to double-check your XV's dynamic roof load limit in the manual before loading up!

So basically the consensus is that you’ve got two main routes: go for a classic basket like the Yakima LoadWarrior mentioned earlier, or stick with a low-profile tray to keep that MPG from tanking. Honestly, as someone who’s spent way too much time tweaking roof setups on Subies, both are solid, but budget and value really dictate the "best" fit for most owners.

If you're trying to keep costs down while still getting a sturdy build that doesn't look overly bulky on the XV, I’d actually point you toward the CURT 18115 Roof Rack Cargo Basket. It’s significantly more affordable than the boutique brands but fits the stock crossbars like a glove. The reason I suggest this for a budget-conscious build is that it includes a decent wind fairing right out of the box. Most of that annoying wind noise comes from air turbulence between the basket and the roof, so having a solid fairing is non-negotiable if you want to keep your sanity on the highway.

Also, a quick practical tip: regardless of which rack you choose, keep an eye on the weight distribution. Heavy gear should stay low in the car, while light, bulky items like sleeping bags go in the CURT 18115 Roof Rack Cargo Basket. This keeps your center of gravity manageable and helps minimize the drag. If you're really looking for a bargain, the Haul-Master 150 lb. Capacity Steel Roof Basket is a popular DIY favorite, though it usually needs a coat of truck bed liner to prevent rust over time.

What kind of specific camping gear are you planning to haul? That might help narrow down if you need a specific extension or just the standard size. 🚗

So basically the consensus is that you're choosing between a classic basket for that rugged look or a sleek platform to save your MPG. In my experience over the years, I've tried many setups on my Subies, and honestly, safety is where I get picky. I once had a cheap rack loosen up on a highway—scariest moment ever!

If you want something sturdy that won't whistle like a teapot, I'd suggest looking at the Thule Canyon XT Cargo Basket. It's got a tapered design that handles wind way better than most, and the mounting hardware is super secure on stock bars. Another great "safety-first" pick is the Curt 18115 Roof Mounted Cargo Basket combined with the Curt 18117 Roof Rack Cargo Basket Extension if you need more room later. Just remember to double-check those torque settings after a few miles! Anyway, back to your question—stick with brands that prioritize aero-fairings to keep the noise down. Good luck with the camping!