What's the Difference Between a Moonroof & a Sunroof?

Many Hudson shoppers specifically look for a new or pre-owned vehicle with a glass roof when they’re finding their next daily driver. Moonroofs and sunroofs are some of the two most common glass roof options and can provide you with a more immersive driving experience. But, what’s the difference between a moonroof vs. sunroof? These days, the two terms are used interchangeably but there technically is a difference.

While both a moonroof and sunroof can function similarly, there’s are some distinctions between the two. Today, the team at Sawyer Chevrolet, Inc. will provide you with an in-depth answer to, “What’s the difference between a moonroof and a sunroof?”

Different Types of Vehicle Roofs

When you get behind the wheel of a new vehicle or a pre-owned one that’s more modern, you’ll often find that it has a glass roof. Glass roofs can provide increased sunlight so that you have a more open and airy-feeling cabin on Saugerties drives. However, a big difference between sunroofs and moonroofs is that not all sunroofs are transparent. Let’s take a deeper look into the difference between sunroofs and moonroofs below. We’ll also touch on panoramic roofs as well:

What is a Sunroof?

Traditionally, a sunroof was an opaque panel made of metal or canvas. Similar to moonroofs, sunroofs can open and sometimes even tilt to allow fresh air into your vehicle. However, some sunroofs can even be removed completely, unlike moonroofs. Sunroofs are made from a completely opaque metal panel, which slides open to reveal the sky above. When the roof is closed, no light can get in. When it’s open, air and sunlight can get into the cabin unhindered.

What is a Moonroof?

Compared to sunroofs, moonroofs are relatively new in design. Here’s where the difference between sunroofs and moonroofs shines. Moonroofs are often made of glass and can allow light to enter through the interior while you’re driving around Windham. Additionally, moonroofs are often non-removable and feature a sliding interior panel if you wish to completely close off the cabin from sunlight. Moonroofs can slide and open to allow air to enter your vehicle.

What is a Panoramic Roof?

Panoramic roofs are becoming increasingly common on newer vehicles. Panoramic roofs are oftentimes a large piece of fixed glass that allows sunlight to enter the cabin. Most panoramic roofs are composed of one large fixed piece of glass or multiple pieces of glass and spans the whole roof of your vehicle. Some panoramic roofs do allow you to open them, essentially making them a larger moonroof.

Research More Vehicle Advice Today With Sawyer Chevrolet, Inc.!

While the difference between sunroofs and moonroofs is negligible, we understand that it can get confusing when they’re used interchangeably. Many modern-day vehicles are in fact equipped with a moonroof instead of a sunroof, while some are even optioned with panoramic roofs. To see the differences between each vehicle roof in person, you can visit us at Sawyer Chevrolet, Inc.. If you have any other questions or concerns, including if you should buy new or used, please feel free to contact us online or stop by our Catskill dealership. We look forward to meeting you!