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Yakima SkyBox NX 18

Name: Yakima SkyBox NX 18
Brand: Yakima
Price: 849 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.5

Updated SkyBox with improved aerodynamics and quieter ride

Last reviewed: March 2026

cargo_carrierroof_crossbarScore: 89/100

At a glance

Quick Specs

Weight Capacity—

Weight45 lbs

Materialabs_plastic

Mountingroof_crossbar

Why this product

Why the Yakima SkyBox NX 18?

At 18 cu ft and 45 lbs, the SkyBox NX 18 offers the flat bottom interior that maximizes usable space — less wasted volume in tapered corners. Improved aerodynamics keep highway noise manageable. The downside? At this price point, you're competing directly with the Thule Motion 3 XL, which offers dual-side opening and a more refined mount system.

Detailed specs

Full Specifications

Interior Volume	18 cu ft
Dual-Side Opening	Yes

Aerodynamic Profile	Yes
Quick-Mount System	Yes
Fits Skis Inside	Yes
Box Weight	45 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 18

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 432 reviews

80% positive8% negative

Common praises

“NX premium design”
“18 cu ft”
“Improved aerodynamics”

Common complaints

“Expensive”
“Heavy”

Alternatives

Top Comparisons

Most relevant alternatives to Yakima SkyBox NX 18

Compare tool

91/100

Thule

Thule Force 3 XL

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Common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

The Yakima SkyBox NX 18 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