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Yakima SkyBox NX 12

Name: Yakima SkyBox NX 12
Brand: Yakima
Price: 649 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.5

Updated SkyBox with improved aerodynamics and quieter ride

Last reviewed: April 2026

cargo_carrierroof_crossbarScore: 89/100

At a glance

Quick Specs

Weight Capacity—

Weight30 lbs

Materialabs_plastic

Mountingroof_crossbar

Why this product

Why the Yakima SkyBox NX 12?

The SkyBox NX 12 features a flat bottom interior for maximum usable space at 12 cu ft and 30 lbs. Improved aerodynamics over the previous generation means a quieter ride. The downside? 12 cu ft is compact — fine for two people but tight for families — and Yakima's mounting system requires more adjustment than Thule's PowerClick.

Detailed specs

Full Specifications

Interior Volume	12 cu ft
Dual-Side Opening	Yes

Aerodynamic Profile	Yes
Quick-Mount System	Yes
Fits Skis Inside	Yes
Box Weight	30 lbs
Security Rating	Moderate

Low Profile	No
Mounting Hardware Included	Yes
Noise Rating	Moderate

Best prices

Where to Buy

Retailer	Price	Status
Amazon US	Check price	Check availability	Check Price

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Performance analysis

Insights for Yakima SkyBox NX 12

How It Compares

vs. average in cargo_carrier

Score Breakdown

Category Position

Price vs. score for all cargo_carrier

Fitment

Vehicle Compatibility

Chevrolet

Model	Years	Fit	Requirements
Tahoe(5th Gen)	2021+	good	Crossbars needed

Ford

Model	Years	Fit	Requirements
Escape(4th Gen)	2020+	good

Community feedback

What Users Say

Amazon

4.4/5

Based on 567 reviews

80% positive8% negative

Common praises

“NX updated design”
“12 cu ft”
“Improved mount”

Common complaints

“Premium pricing”
“New model limited reviews”

Alternatives

Top Comparisons

Most relevant alternatives to Yakima SkyBox NX 12

Compare tool

88/100

Thule

Thule Motion 3 L

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Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

The Yakima SkyBox NX 12 uses a universal crossbar mount that clamps onto most factory and aftermarket roof racks. Check your specific vehicle in our compatibility checker below.

Most roof boxes in this class hold 100-165 lbs. But your roof's dynamic load limit is the real ceiling — usually 150-200 lbs total including the box itself. Check your owner's manual.

You'll hear a low hum above 65 mph — typical for roof boxes. The aerodynamic shape keeps it manageable. Proper crossbar spacing helps too.

Yes, but it's easier with two people. The box is bulky — lifting it onto the roof solo is the hardest part. Mounting hardware takes 20-30 minutes.

Yes. The hard shell keeps everything dry. ABS plastic is inherently waterproof — sealed seams and weather stripping handle heavy rain and car washes. Won't rust or corrode either.

You can, but don't. An empty roof box adds drag and hurts fuel economy by 10-25%. It also lowers garage clearance. Remove it between trips. Most boxes mount/dismount in 15-20 minutes.

Expect a 10-25% fuel economy hit at highway speeds when loaded. The aerodynamic shape helps versus an open basket, but physics is physics. Remove it between trips. That's free money back in your tank.

Answered by our expert team, MyCargoRacks

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Performance analysis