Best TowBar Cargo boxes

Here’s an updated “Best in Test: Tow-bar Cargo Boxes (2025)” overview — translated into English and including the aerodynamic / energy-consumption comparisons that matter most for EVs.

💡 In short: a rear-mounted box causes far less aerodynamic drag than a roof box — meaning ~15–20 % better efficiency and range on average for EVs.

🧳 Best Tow-Bar Cargo Boxes (Sweden 2025)

ModelVolumeKey featuresTypical package price (SEK / EUR)Notes
Thule Arcos (M / L)M 300 L / L 400 LHard-shell, very aerodynamic; fits directly on Thule tow-bar platform≈ 13 700 – 18 300 SEK (box + platform) ≈ €1 150 – 1 500Low wind resistance; most efficient for EVs.
Thule BackSpace XT300 LSoft/hybrid; mounts on VeloSpace XT bike rack≈ 16 000 – 17 000 SEK ≈ €1 350 – 1 450Light; can combine with bike arms; foldable.
MFT BackBox≈ 300 LGerman modular box; high build quality≈ 14 000 – 17 500 SEK ≈ €1 200 – 1 500Heavy (two-person install); very stable.
TowBox V3 (by Aragon)≈ 400 LRigid, large rear box; ventilated design≈ 9 700 SEK ≈ €820Great volume for money; check local availability.

(All prices excl. VAT; Swedish retail averages, Q4 2025.)

⚙️ Aerodynamic drag & energy impact

SetupTypical impact vs. bare vehicleTest references
Roof box (on top)+18 – 23 % higher fuel or energy use (≈ –40 km range on an EV)Vi Bilägare 2025; ADAC; Car and Driver 2025
Tow-bar / rear box+5 – 8 % increase at 110 – 130 km/hCar and Driver 2025; Vi Bilägare 2025
Empty roof vs. empty tow-bar rackRoof rack adds ~ 2–4 %; tow-bar rack negligibleADAC 2024

🏆 Quick recommendations

Use caseRecommended model
Most aerodynamic / best for EVsThule Arcos M or L
Multi-purpose (cargo + bikes)Thule BackSpace XT + VeloSpace XT rack
Premium durabilityMFT BackBox
Budget / large capacityTowBox V3

⚠️ Checks before buying

  • Confirm tow-ball nose weight (max vertical load) — boxes weigh 25–45 kg empty + load.
  • Ensure lights & license plate visibility comply with local road rules.
  • For EVs, prefer boxes that sit close to bumper height — less turbulence behind the car.
  • Remove the box when not in use — saves energy and avoids sensor interference.