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Ed Hicks Imports
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Sky Views: Sunroof vs. Moonroof

Help enhance your driving experience with the right sunroof or moonroof. Learn more about these roofs and their benefits to make an informed decision.

One of the best parts of driving is feeling warm sunshine on your face and enjoying the cool breeze of fresh air when the windows are down. If you want as much natural light and fresh air flow as possible, a roof window could be the feature you need on your next car. 

Roof windows on vehicles are called either sunroofs or moonroofs — but are they the same thing? And is one option better than the other? We’ll break down if there are any differences between a sunroof and a moonroof to help you make the best decision when shopping for your next car. 

What Is a Sunroof?

Historically, a sunroof is a solid, opaque panel that could be tilted open or removed to allow sun and fresh air into the car. When these sunroofs are fully closed, no light comes through them. You may find some used older vehicles with this type of sunroof. 

Today, a sunroof is typically a glass panel that can tilt or slide open to let in fresh air. It may or may not come with an interior shade that can be closed to block out the sun when desired. 

What Is a Moonroof?

A moon roof is technically a type of sunroof and specifically refers to a tinted glass panel that can slide between the roof and headliner to allow fresh air to flow into the cabin. It may also feature a shade matching your vehicle’s interior that can be closed when you don’t want the Corpus Christi sun shining on you.

Since most newer cars feature a glass panel instead of a metal one, many drivers and car manufacturers use the terms sunroof and moonroof interchangeably. 

Panoramic Roofs

Different types of sun/moonroofs exist, like built-in and pop-up roofs. A style that is growing in popularity is the panoramic roof, which you can find on most newer Mercedes-Benz models.

A panoramic roof maximizes your view of the sky with multiple glass panels spanning from the front of the vehicle to the rear. This roof can enhance the sense of openness and space inside the car and create a more immersive ride for the driver and passengers. 

Some panels on a panoramic roof are fixed, while the ones over the passenger seats are usually operable so everyone can enjoy additional fresh air. Many panoramic roofs come with electrically controlled sunshades to help reduce the amount of sunlight and heat entering the car on bright, hot days. 

Should I Get a Sunroof/Moonroof?

Whether or not you should get a vehicle with a sunroof all comes down to personal preference. Many drivers prefer to have one because a sunroof can:

  • Make the interior feel more spacious and brighter
  • Help with air circulation by increasing airflow
  • Add an element of freedom and adventure to any drive, especially in scenic areas
  • Enhance the exterior appearance of a vehicle

On the other hand, some people avoid vehicles with sunroofs or moonroofs because they can:

  • Add additional weight, which can affect the vehicle’s center of gravity and handling
  • Increase heat on sunny days, which means more A/C usage, especially under the Texas sun
  • Be expensive to replace or fix if damaged

It’s important to consider the pros and cons of a sunroof when shopping for a new vehicle. Make sure you choose the style that fits your needs and preferences. 

Find Your Mercedes with a Sunroof in Corpus Christi

Choosing a vehicle with a sunroof can significantly improve your driving experience. If y]]ou prefer the open-air feel of a sunroof, Ed Hicks Imports has the perfect Mercedes-Benz model for you. Almost every new Mercedes-Benz comes with a panoramic sunroof as a standard feature or add-on option.Visit us in Corpus Christi today to explore our current inventory and find the vehicle that matches your style and preferences. Our team is here to help you select the right car with the right features.

Ed Hicks Imports

3102 South Padre Island Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78415

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