Moonroof vs Sunroof: What’s the Difference?
When comparing moonroofs and sunroofs, the primary differences are in their construction and functionality. A sunroof is typically a solid, opaque panel that can be slid or tilted open to allow fresh air and light into the vehicle. In contrast, a moonroof is a type of sunroof made of tinted glass, providing a view of the sky even when closed. It usually features a sliding/tilting mechanism for partial or full opening.
What is a sunroof?
A sunroof is an operable panel in a vehicle's roof that opens to allow light and fresh air into the interior. Sunroofs come in various types, each offering different features and functionalities.
The most common types include the pop-up sunroof, which is manually operated and can tilt open; the spoiler sunroof, which tilts up and slides open over the roof; and the panoramic sunroof, which covers a larger portion of the roof and often consists of multiple panels; many have fabric that folds up as it retracts. Each type provides a different level of openness and ventilation, catering to various preferences and needs.
What is a moonroof?
A moonroof is a type of sunroof made from tinted glass, allowing light to enter the vehicle even when closed while providing a view of the sky above. Moonroofs are typically electrically operated and most come with a shade (full or partially opaque) to limit solar input, and a few offer variable light transmission at the touch of a switch.
Types of moonroofs include the standard moonroof, which slides open or tilts up at the aft edge — some slide outside the roof but the majority slide into the roof — and the panoramic moonroof, which covers a large section of the roof and often features multiple glass panels for an expansive view. Panoramic moonroofs are popular for their ability to create an open, airy feel inside the vehicle. Some larger vehicles like SUVs, have both a slide/tilt moonroof that covers most of the first two rows, and a second moonroof for the third row.
Pros and cons of having a moonroof or sunroof
Pros
• Natural sunlight in the car: Both moonroofs and sunroofs allow natural light to flood the vehicle's interior, creating a brighter and more pleasant atmosphere.
• Source of fresh air: They provide a convenient way to let in fresh air without the need to open windows, which can reduce wind noise and turbulence.
• Secure ventilation: By tilting the moonroof open and having the shade open only a couple of inches you can help limit interior temperatures on hot, sunny days, even if it rains at some point.
• Makes the interior feel roomier: The open or glass roof design aids the impression of spaciousness, which may help drivers or passengers feel less claustrophobic and potentially minimize motion sickness.
• More theft-resistant than convertible tops: Unlike soft convertible tops, sunroofs and moonroofs are typically made of durable glass, making the vehicle less susceptible to theft.
• No extra storage is needed for tops: Unlike removable hard tops, there is no need to find additional storage space, as sunroofs and moonroofs are integrated into the vehicle's roof.
• Better visibility for scenic views on road trips: They offer an excellent way to enjoy scenic views, making road trips more enjoyable by providing a broader perspective of the surroundings.
Cons
• Glass can absorb heat, requiring the AC to be on more frequently: The glass panels can increase the vehicle's interior temperature, necessitating more frequent use of air conditioning to maintain comfort. This is more common if you forget to close the shade.
• Added vehicle weight from the glass panel can raise its center of gravity: The additional weight of the glass panel can slightly raise the vehicle's center of gravity relative to a similar vehicle without a moonroof, which may affect at-limit handling. However, electronic stability control systems are designed to account for these factors, ensuring the vehicle remains more stable.
Which one should I pick?
When deciding between a moonroof and a sunroof, it's important to note that they are quite similar, and neither is inherently better than the other. Both offer the benefits of natural light, fresh air, and an enhanced sense of space within the vehicle.
However, if you frequently drive in scenic areas or enjoy the feeling of an open, airy cabin, you might want to consider a panoramic moonroof with a tilting feature. These offer expansive views and greater versatility in how much you can open them.
Additionally, models with a built-in sunshade can help mitigate heat absorption from the glass, providing comfort without compromising on the panoramic experience. Always check during a test drive if the roof may be tilted for ventilation without the shade being opened all the way. Ultimately, your choice should depend on your preferences for ventilation, visibility, and how you plan to use the feature.
Mazda vehicles with power-sliding moonroofs
Considering a moonroof for your next vehicle? Many Mazda vehicles offer the luxury and versatility of a power-sliding moonroof, providing fresh air and stunning views. Here are some options to consider:
• 2025 Mazda CX-30: A power-sliding glass moonroof is standard on every trim level except CX-30 2.5 S and 2.5 S Select Sport.
• 2025 Mazda CX-5: This model features a power-sliding glass moonroof on every trim level except CX-5 2.5 S and 2.5 S Select.
• 2025 Mazda CX-50 and CX-50 Hybrid: A power-sliding glass panoramic moonroof is standard on every trim level except the CX-50 2.5 S Select and 2.5 S and Hybrid Preferred.
• 2025 Mazda CX-90: Enjoy a power-sliding glass moonroof on CX-90 3.3 Turbo Preferred, while CX-90 3.3 Turbo Premium Sport, Premium Plus and all CX-90 3.3 Turbo S feature a power-sliding glass panoramic moonroof.
• 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV: CX-90 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle) Preferred is equipped with a power-sliding glass moonroof, while the CX-90 PHEV Premium Sport and Premium Plus feature a panoramic moonroof.
• 2025 Mazda CX-70: Enjoy a power-sliding glass moonroof on CX-70 3.3 Turbo Preferred and Premium, while CX-70 3.3 Turbo Premium Plus and all CX-70 3.3 Turbo S feature a power-sliding glass panoramic moonroof.
• 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV: All CX-70 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle) feature a power-sliding glass panoramic moonroof.
• 2025 Mazda3 Sedan: Mazda3 Sedan offers a power-sliding glass moonroof with a one-touch open feature and interior sunshade on all models except Mazda3 2.5 S Sedan and 2.5 S Select Sport Sedan.
• 2025 Mazda3 Hatchback: Similar to the sedan, Mazda3 Hatchback models feature a power-sliding glass moonroof with a one-touch open feature and interior sunshade on all trim levels except the Mazda3 2.5 S Hatchback and 2.5 S Select Sport Hatchback.
Ready to experience the luxury of a Mazda moonroof for yourself? Explore our inventory online or find a dealer near you to schedule a test drive and see firsthand how a Mazda vehicle with a moonroof can enhance your driving experience.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and is based on the latest competitive information available at the time of posting. Information herein is subject to change without notice and without Mazda incurring any obligations. Please review a variety of resources prior to making a purchasing decision. Visit Resource Center for more articles.