ARB Hard Case Awning 2.5M
#6 in SideFull review
For ARB rack owners who want a tidy hard cased awning with a built in light. Shoppers who mainly want shade for the money have cheaper choices.
ARB $549.95$549.95
The ARB Hard Case Awning 2.5M is the better vehicle awning overall, rated 3.2 to 2.2. The ARB Hard Case Awning 2.5M leads on warranty. The Thule OverCast 4.5 ft costs $100 less ($449.95 vs $549.95).
Thule OverCast 4.5 ft
#15 in SideFull review
A light, compact awning for a car or small SUV on Thule bars. Buyers who want more shade or a published waterproof rating should look at larger models.
Amazon $449.95$449.95
Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the ARB Hard Case Awning 2.5M for warranty (3-year warranty vs 2-year warranty).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every side vehicle awning; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | ARB Hard Case Awning 2.5M | Thule OverCast 4.5 ft |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.2/5 | 2.2/5 |
| Value 30% | 36 $8.18 per sq ft of shade ($549.95, 67.2 sq ft) | 2 $15.41 per sq ft of shade ($449.95, 29.2 sq ft) |
| Coverage 20% | 94 67.2 sq ft of shade (8.2 x 8.2 ft) | 18 29.2 sq ft of shade (4.5 x 6.5 ft) |
| Fabric 15% | 5 1,000 mm waterproof rating | 50 waterproof rating not published (neutral score used) |
| Weight 10% | 50 weight not published (neutral score used) | 9 22 lb (0.8 lb per sq ft of shade) |
| Warranty 25% | 50 3-year warranty | 25 2-year warranty |
Specifications
| ARB Hard Case Awning 2.5M | Thule OverCast 4.5 ft | |
|---|---|---|
| Size | ||
| Shape | Side | Side |
| Size | 8.2 x 8.2 ft | 4.5 x 6.5 ft |
| Shade | 67.2 sq ft | 29.2 sq ft |
| Build | ||
| Fabric | 300D Oxford polyester | - |
| Waterproof rating | 1,000 mm | - |
| Weight | - | 22 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |