Introduction
Confused between Moonroof vs Sunroof vs Panoramic? It’s not just big SUVs and luxury cars that have sunroofs – sunroofs are becoming more common as they become more affordable. And while you might think you know all about them, there are actually a few essential differences between types of panoramic roofs on newer cars.
Definition And Types of sunroof in car
A sunroof is a device that opens the roof of a vehicle, allowing sunlight to enter the vehicle. It is an optional feature on many vehicles, and it can be used to increase the amount of light inside the vehicle. Sunroofs are usually located above the rear window of a two-door vehicle, or above the front window on a four-door vehicle.
A sunroof can be manually operated by a driver or passenger (depending on how it is designed) or at times automatically opened when needed by sensors. When open, air flows through it and cools the interior of the car while allowing more sunlight into the vehicle.
A sunroof is a movable panel in the roof of a car that can be opened or closed. It’s commonly referred to as a moonroof, but you don’t need to know this word to understand what it does.
The purpose of opening and closing your car’s sunroof is simple: it allows fresh air into your vehicle so you can breathe easier while driving and also provides an outside view for enjoyment on those sunny days when it’s too cold for windows to open completely.
What is moonroof in a car
Moonroofs are a popular feature in many types of cars, from small economy cars to luxury sports cars. They are one of the easiest ways to increase the value of your car and make it more comfortable for you.
What is a Moonroof?
A moonroof is a flat glass window that covers the entire roof area. It is installed on many vehicles because it allows you to see out of your vehicle while still remaining protected from the sun, rain, and other elements.
The Different Types of Moonroofs
There are three different types of moonroofs: power, manual, and tilt-up windows. Power moonroofs have electric motors that open or close them automatically when you turn on the ignition and shut them when you turn off the ignition or if they are too hot to touch. Manual moonroofs require you to open them manually using levers located on either side of the windows or from inside your car by pressing buttons located on each door panel.
A moonroof is a sunroof with transparent glass. It can be opened or closed by the driver, passenger, or both.
- The driver will open and close it from inside the vehicle.
- The passenger will also be able to do so if they’re sitting in the back seat (or even outside).
What is panoramic sunroof?
A panoramic sunroof doesn’t have any moving parts, so it doesn’t need to be serviced often. When you do need service, it’s usually because something has come loose or cracked and needs replacing. There are some things that can go wrong with these types of windows, but most problems are easily fixed by replacing just one part at a time. Panoramic sunroofs are similar to normal ones, but they are able to open at a wider angle. This allows you to see more of the sky while driving. A panoramic roof can be found on some luxury cars and SUVs, but it is not as common as other types of roofs. A panoramic sunroof is a huge glass window in the roof of a car that opens up to make passengers feel like they’re riding in a convertible. They are available on many vehicles, including:
- Expensive luxury models like BMW and Mercedes-Benz
- Low-cost economy cars such as Ford, Honda, and Hyundai
What is difference between sunroof and moonroof?
Below is a detailed difference between them through a tabular format
| Aspect | Panoramic Sunroof | Moonroof | Sunroof |
| Material | Built with glass material | Glass material | Metal or glass material |
| Visibility | Exceptional visibility with a panoramic view of surroundings. | Limited visibility due to smaller size. | Offers good visibility, especially when fully opened. |
| Cost | Very high cost due to size and complexity. | Higher cost due to factory installation. | Can be low or high, depending on the type and installation method. |
| Design | The larger, full-length roof opening extends from front to rear. | Built-in, factory option, often smaller and compact. | Can be built-in or aftermarket, with styles like tilt, pop-up, sliding, and spoiler. |
| Maintenance | More maintenance is required due to its larger size and complexity. | Requires regular maintenance to prevent leaks and ensure proper functioning. | Maintenance varies and may include cleaning and lubricating moving parts. |
| Operation | Operated electronically, with multiple settings. | Glass panels can tilt or fully open. | A manual or electronic operation can be tilting, sliding, or fully opening. |
| Installation | Typically factory option, a complex installation process. | Generally factory-installed. | Factory-installed or aftermarket accessory. |
Sunroofs and moonroofs aren’t just for fancy vehicles anymore.
Sunroofs and moonroofs aren’t just for fancy cars anymore. You can get them in your car or SUV, too! The latest trend is panoramic sunroofs, which allow you to open up the space between your seats and let in light, fresh air, and views of the surrounding landscape without sacrificing any headroom.
A sunroof also lets you enjoy some sunlight while driving during the day—you’ll love how much better it feels when all that warm rays hit your face as soon as you pull out of a parking spot on a sunny day!
Our Take: Moonroof vs Sunroof vs Panoramic
Sunroofs and moonroofs aren’t just for fancy cars anymore. They can be used on any vehicle and make life a little more convenient. If you’re looking to buy a new car, make sure it has one of these features so you don’t have to leave home without it!
FAQs
1. Which car gives a panoramic sunroof?
Several cars offer panoramic sunroofs, such as the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, and Tata Safari, providing a premium driving experience with expansive views and natural light.
2. Which cars have panoramic sunroof under 15 lakhs?
Cars like Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder offer panoramic sunroofs and are priced under ₹15 lakhs, offering both style and functionality.
3. Which 7-seater car has a panoramic sunroof?
7-seater SUVs like the Hyundai Alcazar, Mahindra XUV700, MG Hector Plus, and Tata Safari come with panoramic sunroofs, offering luxury features and space for larger families.
4. Does the panoramic sunroof open fully?
Panoramic sunroofs generally open fully or partially depending on the model. While many cars allow the entire sunroof to open, some only offer partial opening for ventilation.
5. Which Indian car has a panoramic sunroof?
Indian cars like the Tata Safari and Mahindra XUV700 come equipped with panoramic sunroofs, offering modern features and an enhanced driving experience for Indian customers.
6. Is a panoramic sunroof the same as a moonroof?
Nope, they’re different actually, a moonroof is usually a smaller tinted glass panel that just tilts up or slides a bit within the roof, while a panoramic one is huge often from front to back covering most of the roof sometimes even over rear passengers and it might have multiple glass sections to make the cabin feel super open, so basically all moonroofs are sunroofs but panoramic is a specific big type.
7. Which is better sunroof or moonroof?
Well it depends what you want, a regular sunroof might be metal and simpler maybe more reliable, but a moonroof gives you that tinted glass letting in light even when closed so you get a view, panoramic sunroofs are the most dramatic making the whole cabin bright and airy but they add weight and cost more and can have more issues, so moonroofs kind of hit a sweet spot for many people.
8. What is the disadvantage of a panoramic sunroof?
They can be a hassle honestly, adding a lot of extra weight which hurts fuel economy and handling, plus that giant glass turns the car into a greenhouse making it super hot inside so your AC has to work overtime, they’re expensive to fix if something breaks, leaks can happen if drains clog or seals fail, and sometimes you get annoying rattles or even reduced headroom.
9. What are common problems with a panoramic sunroof?
Leaks are super common especially if the little drainage tubes get blocked by leaves or dirt or if the rubber seals dry out and crack, then you get water dripping inside, also expect rattles and squeaks as it ages, the motor or tracks might jam preventing it from opening or closing, wind noise can be bad if it’s not aligned right, and worst case the glass itself could crack.
