Sunroofs and moonroofs are often used interchangeably, but there are subtle distinctions between the two. This guide delves into the differences between sunroofs and moonroofs, providing insights into their functionality, materials, and common applications.
What is a Sunroof?
A sunroof is an opening panel installed in the roof of a vehicle that allows light and air into the cabin. It typically consists of a metal or glass panel that can be slid open, tilted up, or removed entirely. Sunroofs are often made of metal, providing a durable and weather-resistant option.
Initially the sunroofs were made up of metal which matched the colour of the roof but now opaque sunroofs are not that common. The sunroofs are normally placed above the rear windows of a two door car and above the front windows of a four door car.
What is a Moonroof?
Moonroof can be found in the cars which come under the small economy cars as well as the luxury sports car. It makes the car much more comfortable and increases the value of the car as it becomes luxurious.
A moonroof is a type of sunroof that is made of glass. It typically slides between the roof and the headliner, allowing for a more unobstructed view of the sky. Moonroofs are often tinted to reduce glare and provide shade.
Moonroofs allow you to see out of the vehicle but keep you protected from the weather conditions like rain, sun, storm and others. There are three types of moonroofs which are included in cars. They are power, manual and tilt-up moonroofs.
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Key Differences between Sunroofs and Moonroofs
- Material: Sunroofs are typically made of metal, while moonroofs are made of glass.
- Functionality: Sunroofs can be slid open, tilted up, or removed entirely, while moonroofs typically only slide open.
- View: Sunroofs may offer a more limited view of the sky due to their metal construction, while moonroofs provide a more unobstructed view due to their glass construction.
- Tinting: Sunroofs may not have tinting, while moonroofs are often tinted to reduce glare and provide shade.
Difference between Sunroof, Moonroof and Panoramic Sunroofs
| Sunroofs | Moonroofs | Panoramic Sunroofs | |
| Cost | Lower | Lower | Higher |
| Maintenance | Lower | Lower | Higher |
| Size | Small | Small | Bigger |
| Material | Metal | Glass | Glass |
| Movement | Removable | Removable | Mostly fixed |
Application and Examples
Both sunroofs and moonroofs are popular options for vehicles, enhancing the driving experience by providing natural light and ventilation. Sunroofs are commonly found on SUVs, trucks, and larger cars, while moonroofs are often seen on sedans and luxury vehicles.
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Examples of Sunroofs
- Ford Bronco
- Jeep Wrangler
- Toyota Tacoma
Examples of Moonroofs:
- Honda Civic
- Toyota Camry
- BMW 5 Series
Choosing between a Sunroof and a Moonroof
The decision between a sunroof and a moonroof depends on personal preferences and vehicle type. If a durable, weather-resistant option is desired, a sunroof may be a suitable choice. For those who prefer a more unobstructed view of the sky and reduced glare, a moonroof could be a better fit.
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Additional Considerations
- Cost: Sunroofs are generally less expensive than moonroofs due to their simpler construction and materials.
- Weight: Sunroofs may weigh more than moonroofs due to their metal construction, which could slightly affect fuel economy.
- Maintenance: Moonroofs may require more maintenance than sunroofs due to their glass construction and potential for scratching or cracking.
Sunroofs and moonroofs both enhance the driving experience by providing natural light and ventilation. Understanding the key differences between the two can help individuals make an informed decision when purchasing a vehicle with one of these features.
What is Panoramic Sunroof?
The Common panoramic sunroof doesnโt have any removable or moving parts that is why it might prove to be a low maintenance feature in cars as compared to the other two. Panoramic sunroofs are bigger in size and can even open at wider angles providing a better view of the sky while driving. It can only be found in a few luxury cars and SUVs but it is not yet common like the moonroofs.
Examples of Panoramic Sunroofs
- BMW and Mercedes-Benz
- Ford, Honda and Hyundai
Basically the sunroof and moonroof are similar these days, whereas the panoramic sunroof is a bit different from the two as it covers most parts of the roof and comes in layers. The first layer of the panoramic sunroof can be removed but mostly the glass lining on the inside is not removable.
