The 3 Best Roof Racks for the Nissan Rogue

In this article, we’ll be recommending the best roof racks for your Nissan Rogue.

We tested some of the most prominent roof racks along with some lesser known options made specifically for the Nissan Rogue. 

Our evaluation considered factors such as build quality, load capacity, and even the design of each rack. 

As such, Mostplus’ Roof Rack stood out from the crowd with its lightweight build, high load capacity, and aerodynamic shape. It also has other features that make it even more attractive. 

We believe in the results of real world testing. And after reviewing vehicle accessories for over a decade, we can help you make the best choice when it comes to roof racks. 

Keep reading for more information on the best roof racks for the Nissan Rogue.

Mostplus Nissan Rogue Roof Rack

Overall Best

Mostplus’ roof rack is a sturdy and well built option. It has good load capacity, while keeping its own weight lower than the competition. The aerodynamic shape helps make it less cumbersome day to day. 

Build quality is an essential consideration for roof racks, and this one from Mostplus does not disappoint. Marine grade aluminium is the material of choice, giving the rack better rigidity and structure. It also helps keep the weight down so you can load more luggage without worrying about your car’s roof getting damaged. 

Aluminium is also more resistant to corrosion and rusting. This is especially important for Nissan Rogues that get used for camping, cross country trips, and anything else where your car needs to be parked in the elements. 

As for the design, it is compact and sleek. It looks like a natural extension of your car’s roofline rather than an aftermarket slap-on. The compact size also frees up a lot of space for storing luggage, equipment, and other cargo. 

It’s easy to see that aerodynamics played a huge role in the design of this roof rack. It is streamlined and reduces drag at speed. We did not experience excessive wind noise or buffeting at highway speeds with this roof rack installed. 

Installation was quick and easy. The bolt-on design inspires a lot of confidence, while also being more secure and sturdy. Heavy duty clamps ensure better fitment, and there are rubber inserts to protect the car’s paintwork from scratches, dings, and blemishes. 

All said and done, we did not need more than 20 minutes to get the rack ready for duty. All of the mounting hardware was provided in the box and no drilling or other major modification was necessary. 

Moving on to the most important feature: load capacity. Mostplus’ roof rack surprised us with its 150 lb load capacity, perfect for general use. Surfboards, fishing gear, kayaks, roof boxes, suitcases; you name it, this rack can carry it.

Pros

  • Marine grade aluminium build
  • Compact design
  • More space for loading cargo
  • 150 lbs load capacity
  • Easy to install
  • All mounting hardware provided
  • Bolt on design
  • No drilling or cutting required
  • Rubber inserts protect paintwork
  • Aerodynamic shape
  • Reduced drag 
  • No wind resistance
  • No wind noise
  • Can hold larger items such as surfboards, kayaks, etc

Cons

  • Will not fit 2019 and newer models

CargoLoc Aluminium Roof Rack for the Nissan Rogue

Best Budget

If you need a heavy duty roof rack and are strapped for cash, CargoLoc makes an awesome one that combines high load capacity, robust construction, and a sturdy fit, all for a fraction of the competition’s price. 

Pound for pound, or rather dollar for dollar, CargoLoc’s roof rack is one of the best out there. Aluminium is used throughout the build, although there is also a bit of plastic used here and there. It is a well built and stable roof rack. 

Another feature we love with this roof rack is the clamps that help it fit securely. They are lined with soft rubber and do not scratch or dent your car’s paintwork. This also keeps your luggage from shifting in transit. 

A bit of high wind or highway speed is nothing for this rack. The aerodynamic styling helps it cut through the air with little resistance or buffeting. Drag is non-existent and we did not notice any wind noise in the interior of the car. 

As for installation, this rack is universally compatible and will fit most any car, SUV, or truck (results of space shuttle fitment test pending). The fit is adjustable too, so you can hold larger items easily. 

We like getting add-ons with our vehicle accessories, so the cargo net included with this roof rack is nice to see. It is also really useful for covering your cargo so smaller items don’t fall off at highway speed. You also get 5mm thick bungee cords that keep luggage securely tied down. 

The load capacity rating of this roof rack is also in line with other premium offerings. 150 lbs is the official rating but in our experience, you can only really load about 135 lbs before the rack starts bending. 

Other than the great real world performance, what really sold us on this roof rack was its useful feature set. Anti-theft locks keep your prized comic book collection safe from ‘criminally inclined comic book connoisseurs’. 

A limited lifetime warranty is also provided, adding confidence while purchasing this rack. The installation process is very straightforward with everything bolting on quickly. All of the mounting hardware is also included.

Pros

  • Universal fit design
  • Aluminium used throughout the build
  • Rated for 150 lbs load capacity
  • Budget friendly option
  • Can hold kayaks, mountain bikes, surfboards, etc
  • Maximum side rail width of 46 inches supported
  • Lockable mechanism for more solid fitting
  • Anti-theft key lock design
  • Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Some plastic bits are used here and there to make it adjustable
  • We would only recommend loading up to about 135 lbs 

Brightlines Roof Rack for the Nissan Rogue

Premium Choice

Brightlines’ roof rack features an all aluminium design mated to a more secure fit and one of the highest load capacities of any roof rack for the Nissan Rogue. The design also pairs nicely with the Nissan Rogue’s roofline. 

The aluminium build is more rigid and sturdy than steel or other materials, while also being lighter. It barely adds any weight to your roof, and is also easier to install as a result. 

Aluminium does not rust or corrode, so you can rest easy knowing that your roof rack won’t be damaged if you park your car in the driveway overnight. In fact, aluminium roof racks are all but completely necessary for folks living in wetter climates with lots of salty sea air. 

But don’t let the lightweight build deter you. This is a seriously heavy duty roof rack with its ¾ inch crossbar. It uses hook-on style mounting for better fitment, and does not shift or creak when you’re on the road. 

Installation is aided by the precise mounting. No drilling or other major modification is needed, and the secure fit deserves praise. 

This roof rack will fit most vehicles with grooved side rails and we can report that professional installation is not really necessary. All of the mounting hardware is included in the package alongside easy to follow instructions. A cool detail of this roof rack is that the front crossbar is a bit longer than the rear to accommodate the Nissan Rogue’s roof shape. 

A 150 lbs load capacity is nice to see and really useful for carrying stuff like kayaks, bikes, and other heavier equipment as well. 

The load capacity leaves little to be desired and we never felt as though the rack was bending or deforming under heavy load. 

As for aerodynamics, the shape of this roof rack is more low profile than others and you won’t have to worry about buffeting, drag, air resistance, or even wind noise. Mileage is similarly unaffected.

Pros

  • Bolt on installation
  • No drilling required
  • Aerodynamic design
  • Minimal wind noise
  • Aluminium construction
  • 150 lbs load capacity
  • Quick and easy installation
  • Aerodynamic design reduces drag at speed
  • All mounting hardware provided 
  • 1 year manufacturer warranty provided

Cons

  • A bit more expensive than other options

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