Thule Evo Raised Rail Roof Rack Installation on a 2020 Subaru Ascent
The 2020 Subaru Ascent is a full-size family SUV that’s popular for driving in Calgary and weekend adventures in Alberta. With factory-raised roof rails, it’s rack-ready but only with the correct components designed for a secure and clean fit. For this installation, our team set up a Thule Evo Raised Rail Roof Rack System paired with Thule WingBar Evo load bars. The result is a strong, aerodynamic base rack ready for carrying bikes, skis, and in this adventurer's case, a Thule Motion 3 Cargo Box.
Clean, Secure Fit on the 2020 Subaru Ascent
This Subaru Ascent features factory-raised roof rails that run front to back, making it one of the most straightforward vehicles for roof rack installation. Because of this design, the rack system attaches directly to the rails using a raised rail foot pack, eliminating the need for a separate fit kit.
The Thule Evo Raised Rail system uses rubber-lined clamps that wrap securely around the rails without damaging the finish. Once installed, the WingBar Evo crossbars sit low and level, delivering a quiet ride and a clean, factory-style appearance with excellent load capacity.
What We Installed on This 2020 Subaru Ascent
- Thule Evo Raised Rail Foot Pack
- Thule WingBar Evo 135 (53") Black
- Thule Motion 3 XXL Low Black
- Thule One-Key System 6 Pack
Why This Rack Setup Works for Calgary Drivers
- Direct fit to factory raised rails with no additional fit kit required
- Aerodynamic WingBar design reduces wind noise on long highway drives
- Large capacity Motion 3 XXL Low cargo box ideal for family trips and ski gear
- Perfect for year-round Alberta use, including snow, camping, and road trips
Important Fit Note: Crossbar Spread for Cargo Boxes
During this installation, a key adjustment was required when mounting the Thule Motion 3 XXL Low cargo box. The initial crossbar position was set to the front-most spread, which did not allow the cargo box clamps to attach properly.
By setting the front crossbar slightly back, we achieved proper clamp alignment and a secure connection. This is a great example of why proper setup matters even on vehicles with simple raised rail systems.
The full installation took approximately 30 minutes, making this one of the quickest and most efficient rack setups available when using the correct components.
Professional Installation by Our Calgary Team
Our team completed this installation with the same attention to detail we bring to every roof rack project:
- Verified compatibility of all Thule components for the 2020 Subaru Ascent
- Adjusted crossbar spread specifically for the Motion 3 cargo box
- Checked rear hatch clearance with the box installed
- Ensured even bar positioning for load balance and safety
- Torqued all fasteners to manufacturer specifications
Your Local Roof Rack Experts
At Roof Racks Calgary and Roof Racks Edmonton, our team actively uses the gear we install biking, skiing, paddling, camping, and exploring Alberta year-round. We know what works in real-world conditions, from winter highway driving to summer road trips into the Rockies.
Get Help Choosing the Right Rack System
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Edmonton:
(p) 780-463-4892
(e) edmonton@aqoutdoors.com -
Calgary:
(p) 403-288-9283
(e) info@aqoutdoors.com
