What is a Sunroof?
The most common type of sunroof is a pop-up, which is often the most affordable option, too. Simply put, a sunroof tilts open — or “pops up” and partially slides back — to provide ventilation and is usually tinted to restrict how much light and glare enters the car. The other type of sunroof, a removable metal panel, sits in a sliding roof system that is built into the car and slides between the roof and interior liner. Some sunroofs are motorized while others can be manually pushed or "popped" open. Sunroofs are often made in such a way that they can be covered if you do not want to let light in through the glass panel.
When did sunroofs first enter the scene? Sunroofs made their debut in 1937 on some luxury model vehicles. The first sunroofs were large removable metal panels that could be opened and slid back to let in sun and fresh air. In the 1960s and 70s, major automakers began installing sliding and pop-up panels on popular vehicle models, and investing marketing dollars to promote sunroofs as a new and exciting feature. From there, the sky was the limit for sunroof popularity!
What is a Moonroof?
While the terms “sunroof” and “moonroof” are often used interchangeably — and technically, a moonroof is a kind of sunroof — the big difference is that a moonroof is a see-through glass panel that typically slides into a slot in between the roof and the headliner of the car and can be entirely opened with the push of a button. It does not pop open. Even when it's closed, a moonroof still lets light into your vehicle. Think of it like another window.
For a little history, a marketing manager at a well-known auto manufacturer first coined the term “moonroof" in 1973. Moonroof kits were manufactured in Detroit and Germany, and shipped across the United States.
What is a Panoramic Roof?
While moonroofs and sunroofs are popular standards on many of today's vehicles, there's one more option that has continued to rise in popularity — the panoramic roof! Simply put, panoramic roofs consist of one large glass panel or multiple panels that extend nearly the entire length of the vehicle.
Panoramic roofs slide open much farther than standard moonroofs, all while maximizing the airflow in your vehicle and giving you an excellent option for stargazing on clear summer nights!
However, it should be noted that panoramic roofs also have a couple of downsides. The added glass can cause the interior of the car to heat up quicker during hot summer months, potentially reduce headroom, and could add extra weight to your vehicle.
Get the Right Sunroof or Moonroof for Your INFINITI
Have you been dreaming of a roof with a view in your INFINITI? When you're ready to elevate your driving experience with a moonroof, sunroof, or panoramic roof, head to your local INFINITI dealer to test drive models with these features. Installing a glass-ceiling roof in a vehicle that wasn't originally equipped with one can be challenging and isn't an upgrade you want to tackle in your driveway. If your current INFINITI has a sunroof, moonroof, or panoramic roof, make sure you purchase INFINITI roof parts online that are genuine and made specifically for your vehicle.