Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan or Thule Force 3 XL US? Which Thule Model to Buy
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This comparison covers the thule motion 3 xl lowtitan vs force 3 xl us. Both models feature Thule’s SlideLock security and quick-mount systems for safe installation. The main difference lies in their shape and access. The Motion 3 XL LowTitan uses a low-profile wing design for aerodynamics, while the Force 3 XL US offers dual-side opening. You should choose based on whether you prioritize fuel efficiency or convenience.
Key differences
| Aspect | Thule Motion 3 XL Low | Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | Single side | Dual side |
| Dimensions | 90 x 39 x 17 inches | 84.8 x 34.1 x 18.5 inches |
| Weight | 68.6 pounds | 65 pounds |
| Profile Shape | Wing-shaped with forward-leaning nose | Sleek, durable design |
| Color | Titan | Black |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Thule Motion 3 XL Low if
- You want the lowest possible profile to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.
- You need the longest length available for bulky items like skis or lumber.
- You prefer a wider box that provides more overall volume.
Choose Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box if
- You need to access cargo from both sides of your vehicle.
- You prefer a lighter box that is easier to handle during installation.
- You want a slightly shorter box that fits well on smaller roof racks.
Verdict: Choose the Motion 3 XL LowTitan if your priority is aerodynamic efficiency and maximum length. Choose the Force 3 XL US if dual-side access and lighter weight are more important for your daily use. Both offer secure mounting and reliable locking systems.
Motion 3 vs Force 3 Comparison
Shell design
The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan features a wing-shaped profile with a forward-leaning nose. This aerodynamic shape is designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency while driving. In contrast, the Thule Force 3 XL US has a more traditional, robust shell shape. It is built to maintain a sleek appearance while handling daily use and active lifestyle demands. The Motion 3’s low, streamlined design prioritizes aerodynamics, whereas the Force 3 XL focuses on durability and a classic roof box silhouette. You should choose the Motion 3 if fuel savings from reduced drag are a priority, or the Force 3 if you prefer a sturdier, more conventional look.
Dimensions
Size specifications differ noticeably between these two models. The Motion 3 XL LowTitan measures 90 inches in length, 39 inches in width, and 17 inches in height. The Force 3 XL US is smaller in both length and width, measuring 84.8 inches long, 34.1 inches wide, and 18.5 inches high. The Motion 3 offers more length and width, potentially providing more lateral space for bulky items. However, the Force 3 is taller, which might help with vertical clearance in tight spaces. Your vehicle’s roof rack width and available garage space will determine which footprint fits best. The Motion 3 is longer and wider, while the Force 3 is shorter and narrower.
Opening sides
Access to your cargo is a key functional difference. The Thule Force 3 XL US allows you to open the lid from both sides of the vehicle. This dual-side access is highly convenient when parked in tight spots where you cannot open the box from one side. The Motion 3 XL LowTitan is described as having a single-side opening mechanism, indicated by its specific handle design and lack of dual-side features in the data. If you frequently park in narrow garages or tight spaces, the Force 3’s dual-side access is a significant practical advantage. For open parking areas, single-side access may be sufficient.
Weight
The empty weight of the roof box affects your vehicle’s payload capacity. The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan weighs 68.6 pounds. The Thule Force 3 XL US is slightly lighter at 65 pounds. This difference of 3.6 pounds is relatively small but may matter if you are close to your vehicle’s roof load limit. Both models are substantial carriers, so the weight difference is unlikely to impact driving dynamics significantly. You should check your vehicle’s manual for maximum roof load limits. The Force 3 XL US offers a slight advantage in terms of lower empty weight, leaving marginally more capacity for your cargo.
Security
Both roof boxes share the same core security mechanism. They both utilize Thule’s SlideLock system, which features separate locking and opening functions. This system automatically locks the lid in place and indicates when the box is closed securely. The mounting systems also share similar quick-mount principles with click indicators to ensure proper installation. Since the security features and mounting mechanisms are effectively identical in specification, neither model holds an advantage here. You can expect the same level of theft deterrence and installation security from either choice. The decision should rest on shape, size, and access rather than security features.
Which Thule Roof Box Fits Your Needs
Drivers prioritizing fuel economy and low profile
The Motion 3 XL LowTitan features a wing-shaped profile with a forward-leaning nose. This aerodynamic design reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency. Its height is 17 inches, making it lower than the Force 3 XL US at 18.5 inches. The width is 39 inches, providing a wider base for stable cargo placement. If your main goal is minimizing wind resistance and keeping a low center of gravity, this model is the better choice.
Users needing access from both sides of the vehicle
The Force 3 XL US allows you to open the lid from either side of your vehicle. This dual-side access enhances convenience when parking in tight spaces. It weighs 65 pounds, which is lighter than the Motion 3 XL LowTitan at 68.6 pounds. The width is 34.1 inches, and the length is 84.8 inches. If you frequently park on both sides of a street and need quick, easy access to your gear, this model offers that practical advantage.
Those carrying wider or bulkier items
The Motion 3 XL LowTitan has a width of 39 inches, compared to the 34.1 inches of the Force 3 XL US. This extra width allows you to fit wider items more easily. It also measures 90 inches in length, offering more longitudinal space than the 84.8 inches of the Force model. If you regularly transport wide cargo like surfboards or long kayaks, the additional width and length of the Motion 3 XL provide more flexibility.
The products compared
Thule Motion 3 XL Low
Best for: aerodynamic efficiency and high-volume storage
- Opening
- Single side (implied by handle)
- Security
- SlideLock system
- Installation
- PowerClick quick-mount system
- Dimensions
- 90 x 39 x 17 inches
- Weight
- 68.6 pounds
View on Amazon: Thule Motion 3 XL Low Affiliate link
This X-Large cargo box measures 90 by 39 by 17 inches and weighs 68.6 pounds. Its low 17-inch height keeps the center of gravity low for better handling. The PowerClick system ensures secure mounting with a torque click. The SlideLock mechanism locks the lid automatically. You get a wing-shaped profile to reduce drag. It suits those needing high capacity without excessive height.
Pros
- PowerClick quick-mount system with integrated torque indicator
- SlideLock system for automatic locking and secure closure
- Low 17-inch height reduces aerodynamic drag
- Wing-shaped profile for improved fuel efficiency
Cons
- Single-side opening limits access from the passenger side
- Heavy at 68.6 pounds, making installation physically demanding
- Large footprint may not fit smaller roof racks
Good fit if
- You need maximum storage volume for long trips
- You prioritize aerodynamic efficiency and fuel economy
- You have a roof rack compatible with PowerClick mounts
Skip if
- You require dual-side opening for passenger access
- You have a roof rack with low weight limits
- You need a box that fits smaller vehicles
Verdict: Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan offers substantial 90-inch length and low-profile design for efficient hauling. It fits drivers who prioritize aerodynamic performance and secure, one-handed operation over dual-side access.
Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box
Best for: Dual-side access and secure locking
- Opening
- Dual-side
- Security
- SlideLock system
- Installation
- Click-indicating mounting system
- Dimensions
- 84.8 x 34.1 x 18.5 in
- Weight
- 65 pounds
View on Amazon: Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box Affiliate link
The Thule Force 3 XL US is an XL regular roof box measuring 84.8 by 34.1 by 18.5 inches. It weighs 65 pounds and features dual-side opening for easy access. The SlideLock system indicates when the lid is securely attached. This model suits drivers who need durable, high-capacity storage with a secure mounting system that clicks into place.
Pros
- Dual-side opening for access from both vehicle sides
- SlideLock system with secure click indicator
- XL Regular size measures 84.8 x 34.1 x 18.5 inches
Cons
- Heavier build at 65 pounds
- Standard 18.5-inch height limits aerodynamic efficiency
- Black finish may show surface scratches
Good fit if
- You need dual-side access for loading cargo
- You require a large XL storage capacity
- You prefer a secure click-indicator mounting system
Skip if
- You prioritize a lightweight carrier under 60 pounds
- You want a low-profile design under 17 inches
- You need a color other than black
Verdict: Thule Force 3 XL Black offers robust dual-side access and secure locking for heavy loads. It fits drivers who value durability and easy loading over aerodynamic slimness.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Thule Motion 3 XL Low | Thule Force 3 XL US Dual-Side Roof Box |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | Single side (implied by handle) | Dual-side |
| Security | SlideLock system | SlideLock system |
| Installation | PowerClick quick-mount system | Click-indicating mounting system |
| Dimensions | 90 x 39 x 17 inches | 84.8 x 34.1 x 18.5 in |
| Weight | 68.6 pounds | 65 pounds |
| Size | X-Large | XL Regular |
| Color | TITAN | Black |
| Model | 197074566102 | 645850 |
Frequently asked questions
Which Thule roof box is better for aerodynamics?
The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan is the better choice for aerodynamic efficiency. It features a low-profile wing design with a forward-leaning nose. This shape reduces drag and improves fuel economy. The Thule Force 3 XL US has a taller, boxier profile. It prioritizes durability and dual-side access over sleek aerodynamics.
What is the difference in length between these two models?
The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan is longer at 90 inches. The Thule Force 3 XL US measures 84.8 inches in length. If you need maximum linear storage space for long items like skis or kayaks, the Motion 3 XL offers more room. The Force 3 XL is slightly shorter but still provides substantial capacity.
Which model offers dual-side access for easier loading?
The Thule Force 3 XL US offers dual-side access. You can open the lid from either side of the vehicle. This is helpful when parking in tight spaces. The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan does not feature this design. It relies on single-side access, which requires more space on one side of the car to load items.
How do the heights compare for garage clearance?
The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan is lower at 17 inches. This low profile helps with garage clearance and reduces wind noise. The Thule Force 3 XL US is taller at 18.5 inches. If you have a low garage door or prioritize a smaller footprint on the roof, the Motion 3 XL is the more practical option.
Which roof box is lighter to handle?
The Thule Force 3 XL US is lighter at 65 pounds. The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan weighs 68.6 pounds. The Force 3 XL is 3.6 pounds lighter. This slight difference may matter if you frequently remove the box from your vehicle. Both models are heavy, so you will likely need assistance for installation.
What is the width difference between the two carriers?
The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan is wider at 39 inches. The Thule Force 3 XL US is narrower at 34.1 inches. The wider Motion 3 XL provides more volume but may extend further over your car’s sides. The narrower Force 3 XL fits better on cars with wider mirrors or smaller roof racks.
Which model is best for high-volume storage?
The Thule Motion 3 XL LowTitan is best for high-volume storage. Its larger length and width create substantial interior space. The Thule Force 3 XL US offers robust capacity but with a narrower footprint. If you need to haul bulky items like camping gear or sports equipment, the Motion 3 XL provides more total volume.