I've just got back from 2 weeks in Tignes.
Due to my brother and cousin wanting to fly (I usually drive out) we hired a car in Geneva.
We got all three of us in a Mazda 2 with two snowboard bags on the roof.
I used my FCS softrack(approx £60) which I brought for putting my surfboards on hire cars abroard.
It handled the two heavy snowboard bags fine even with the little Mazda flat out !!!
The only down side is the straps run through just above your head and these can let rain past the door seals.
Given the choice though my VW Transporter Kombi is the way to go.It covers big miles with ease.Room for five adults in comfort and as much kit as you want.
It does cost a bit more than a soft rack though.
Next time I think I can talk my brother round to driving as he got stung for £140 excess baggage by easyjet