Moonroof vs. Sunroof: What's the Difference?

What’s the difference between a sunroof and a moonroof? Are they the same thing? They may sound similar, but there are some key distinctions between them. If you’re looking for a way to bring in a little more sunlight or fresh air on your Auburn commute, keep reading to find out what these distinctions are before you buy a car with a moonroof or sunroof.

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What is a Moonroof?

A moonroof is a transparent, tinted glass panel built into the roof of a car that can be tilted open or slid back for ventilation on warm Federal Way days. The key features of a moonroof include:

Made of tinted or transparent glass so you can see the sky and sunlight through it when closed
Slides and tilts open, allowing both ventilation and views
Comes in a wide range of sizes, but is typically smaller than a sunroof
Has an interior roof panel that blocks sunlight, reducing heat and glare

What is a Sunroof?

A sunroof is also an opening built into a car’s roof, but it has some different characteristics than a moonroof:

Made of opaque materials like metal or fiberglass, blocking sunlight even when closed
Primarily slides open, allowing ventilation but not views
Tend to be larger than moonroofs, with some extending over the back seats as well
Allows sunlight to come into the car interior when open

What’s the Difference Between a Sunroof and Moonroof?

While moonroofs and sunroofs both offer Sumner drivers an open-air experience, there are a few main differences. What’s the difference between a moonroof and sunroof? Here’s a list:

Material: Moonroofs are made of glass while sunroofs use metal or fiberglass.
View: Moonroofs allow you to see the sky when closed; sunroofs don’t.
Light: Moonroofs have tinting and inner panels to reduce light and glare; sunroofs let full sunlight in.
Size: Sunroofs tend to be larger and can cover more of the roof.
Opening: Both options slide open, but moonroofs also tilt for ventilation.

Which is Right for You?

When deciding between a moonroof vs. sunroof for your next car, consider your priorities:

View: If you want to be able to see the sky and stars, a moonroof is the best choice.
Light: Go with a sunroof if you want to bathe your interior in natural light.
Airflow: Both deliver ventilation when open, but moonroofs also tilt.
Coverage: A large, wide sunroof maximizes the open-air feeling.

Visit Sunset Kia of Auburn for Your New Kia

No matter which style you choose, you’ll be able to enjoy the feeling of openness and a connection to the outdoors from the comfort of your car. Stop by Sunset Kia of Auburn today to test drive a car with a moonroof or sunroof option! Just be sure to take advantage of our offers and incentives. And, if you found this guide to be helpful, check out our other car-buying tips. We’re just down the road from Puyallup, so drop or contact us today.