Moonroof vs Sunroof: What’s the difference?

When you buy a new Toyota, is a moonroof or sunroof on your must-have list of features? It’s a great way to let the outside in without having to commit to a convertible. However, what’s the difference between a moon roof and a sunroof? Is there even one, or are they interchangeable ways to refer to the hole in the roof of your car? Toyota of Orlando is here to explain.

What is a sunroof?

A sunroof – believe it or not – is a panel in a car that can be slid back, tilted, or removed entirely to let the sunshine and fresh air in. The key takeaway here is that a sunroof used to be entirely opaque – you couldn’t see through it.

What is a moonroof?

A moonroof, on the other hand, is glass (i.e. not opaque) so you can see through it. Sometimes the glass is tinted to let a little less light in. Like a sunroof, a moonroof can be slid or tilted open and closed. Unlike a traditional sunroof, moonroofs are not removable and usually come with a shade if you want to keep the sun out of your car. Technically, a moonroof is considered to be a type of sunroof.

What about a panoramic roof?

Panoramic roofs are relatively new to the game in the automotive industry but they’re a cool feature. Basically, they’re two large glass panels that span the length of the roof and let light into both the front and back seats of the car. They can be fixed (not movable) or slide open and closed like moonroofs.

Should you get one on your next Orlando Toyota?

Thinking about making a moonroof or sunroof a must-have feature on your list for your next Orlando Toyota? Here are some pros and cons.

Pros: 

• You can let fresh air and sunshine in when the weather is good (and the rain beating on the glass looks cool when the weather isn’t good).
• They’re safer than a soft-top convertible, which usually has a canvas roof that’s both dangerous in car accidents and also easily ripped or cut for thieves to get into the car.
• They’re a lot less work than a hard-top convertible. Many of the Toyotas at Toyota of Orlando have one-touch moonroofs that slide open with one press of a button.

Cons: 

• They can clog. If you park in an area under trees, constant dripping water during the rainy season can actually clog the drainage system and make your car smell (our techs at Toyota of Orlando can flush it out for you).
• They can leak. Factory-installed sunroofs and moonroofs rarely leak, but aftermarket sunroofs can be a big problem in this department.

Still have questions or want to check out a sunroof, moonroof, or panoramic roof in person? Visit Toyota of Orlando today! We’re open seven days a week at 3575 Vineland Road and we’re just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.

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