Thule 695 alternative....

So, the other day I saw a Mini Cooper with what appeared to be a Thule 695 cargo basket on top. On closer inspection, I noticed that there were no brand logos on the basket.

Searching, this is a standard Mini Cooper Accessory, priced at about $400 or so. I can't find any dimension data, to see if it is the same size as a 695, but it looked like it is. I will try to contact the local Mini dealership to find out the dimensions and post up what I find.

Here's the link...

http://parts.miniofsouthatlanta.com/...120442358.html

I believe Thule makes them for several vehicle manufacturers directly. I am pretty sure Subaru has one too.

Thule supplied them for Hyundai, Audi, VW, Mini, and Volvo at a minimum. The problem is that Thule discontinued them about two years ago so most dealers are out. I got lucky and found about a dozen 695 and 696 baskets at a west coast Hyundai parts warehouse but they disappeared within 48 hours of me posting a phone number here.

It's worth a call, give them a ring and see what they say.

P.S. IIRC the 695 won't hold anything larger than a stock (245/60/18) spare so if you're considering this for roof tire storage and you're running bigger rubber you'll need the 696.

Sue can you post your pic showing what a 285 tire looks like on a 695?