What is it?
The Thule Motion 3 is the latest iteration of the Thule Motion - the brand's best-selling roofbox. Changes include improved aerodynamics and a wider range of sizes, with new low-profile options now available.
We're testing the Thule Motion 3 L on our Audi Q7 fitted with Thule WingBar Edge roofbars. The L version has 450 litres of carrying capacity and costs £649.99.
Prices for the Motion 3 range start at £569.99 while the biggest box in the range is the 600-litre XXL which is a hefty £879.99. There's also a host of useful accessories including an LED light, tailored bags and specialised liners.
What's it like?
Thule has a reputation for quality, so we have high expectations for the Motion 3 roofbox. And it's off to a good start. It's a solid kit of bit while peeling off the protective film reveals a lovely deep gloss finish.
It's not too heavy at 20kg but as with any roofbox, getting it into place is easier as a two person job, especially on a big SUV like our Q7. Once you've got it in exactly the right place it's easy to fit in place thanks to Thule's clever PowerClick grips. You can't overtighten them thanks to a built-in torque system which means they simply click freely if you continue to twist the dial.
As you can see from the pictures, the sleek design means the Motion 3 hides its size well, this is after all a roofbox that's almost two metres long. It suits our big Audi Q7 - in fact we probably could have upped to an XXL with its extra 40cm length.
The lid opening on the Motion 3 is certainly smoother than before thanks to a more sturdy design which means it doesn't flex as much. This also helps the dual side opening, giving you more reassurance when closing it.
We've tested our Motion 3 numerous times over the summer, including several family holidays and trips away. In fact we've absolutely crammed it with stuff at times including everything from the kids scooters to the usual pillows, suitcases and even an airfryer...
The more sturdy lid gives you confidence even you think you've squeezed a bit too much in, with a reassuring click of the lock the sign that everything is safely stored.
The Motion 3 is designed to be more aerodynamic than its predecessor, which was already very efficient on that front. However, the Motion 3 is even quieter, which is particularly noticeable at 60mph and above. There's barely any noise, helped by the WingBar roofbars and it's easy to forget you even have a roofbox fitted most of the time.
Our Audi Q7 is hardly the most efficient of cars, so perhaps not the best test, but we've not seen any real difference in economy with the Motion 3 fitted, aside from a drop of about 0.5mpg over long journeys.
Thanks to the PowerClick mounts, removing the Motion 3 when you're not using it is easy. Handy as with it fitted we can't take the Audi Q7 into any height restricted car parks. There are covers available for storage but at the moment ours is kept on wall hooks with a sheet over it.
Should I buy one?
With its neat design, solid feel and gloss black finish, the Thule Motion 3 feels every inch a quality product. Yes, Thule roofboxes are some of the most expensive on the market, but they're worth the money.
Look at the Thule Motion 3 as a long term investment and it makes a lot of sense. It feels robust and built to last, so should see you through plenty of years travel. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.
Ours has already been repeatedly put to use this year and with family trips to Holland and Devon planned for next year, it won't be long before it's pressed into service again.
Thule has managed to improve what was already an excellent roofbox - and our best buy choice. The Motion 3 is even better than its predecessor producing less noise while being easier to open and use. If you want a quality roofbox, this simple has to be top of your list.
