I have been using the Thule Ascent 1600 now for over a year, and it has been used constantly for different items, depending on where I'm going and what I may need. The handy double-side opening carrier is for the CUV/Sport Wagon, and is proportioned to the smaller car designs in this category, although it is perfect on my larger SUV.
It is 76 inches long by 33 inches wide, and is just over 16 inches high, yet weighs only 37 pounds. Even though this aerodynamically styled roof top box hasn't added any additional drag or mileage drop, the Roof Carrier has a new easy and fast mounting hardware for taking it off the vehicle when not needed.
I keep mine on all the time because I don't know when I'll need the extra room in my travels, and I tend to put things in it that I won't need any time soon, so it is out of my way, yet easy to open and get when needed. There has been no change in my fuel consumption. That is something I've watched religiously, especially when I was paying over $4 a gallon for diesel fuel.
The other feature I like about the Ascent Box series is the "One Key System" featuring the No Go Locking Mechanism. It only allows for key removal once the box is closed, and locked properly.
Since I enjoy fishing, this is also a carrier that allows me to put a group of fishing rods in cases, out of the way, along with the tackle boxes, reels, and other fishing paraphernalia. I can get to all the small cases easily from both sides of the box.
Thule has been in business since 1942 and has become a leading U.S. manufacturer of car rack products. The company was started in Sweden by the Thulin family and has come full circle with Nordic Captial acquiring it in 2007. Its popular car racks for bikes, skis, and kayaks are seen wherever there are outdoor events or trails for those with active lifestyles and outdoor activities. Thule has just expanded its designs to incorporate the latest car trends down-sized in these tough economic times.
For more information on The Thule Ascent 1600 Roof Carrier visit www.thuleracks.com or call 800-238-2388.
