Welcome to BMW of North Canton

What's the Difference Between a Sunroof and a Moonroof?

2021 BMW X3 Panoramic Sunroof
 

What’s the difference between a sunroof and a moonroof? Both are essentially windows in the ceiling of your vehicle that let in sunlight and give your cabin a spacious feel, so is there really that big of a difference? There can be! The primary difference between a sunroof and a moonroof is in opacity and how they’re installed. Find out the specific difference between a sunroof and a moonroof from BMW of North Canton, then contact us if you’d like to find a new BMW that lets the sun — or moon — shine in.

 

 

What is a Sunroof?

Classic sunroofs are usually opaque panels on the top of a vehicle that matches the rest of the body color. They can either be tilted open or, in some cases, fully removed to let in the sunshine and fresh air during drives through North Canton and Massillon. 

What is a Moonroof?

A moonroof is a specific type of sunroof that’s usually larger than other types of sunroof. The main difference between a sunroof and a moonroof is that moonroofs can’t be removed from the body of the car. They slide or tilt open usually with an interior sliding panel that slides open to access the moonroof itself. The panel typically matches the vehicle’s interior to flow seamlessly with the rest of the materials. 

Moonroofs are more common than sunroofs in most modern cars, but the terms are often used interchangeably.

What Are Panoramic Roof Systems? 

Among the types of sunroofs available these days to Green drivers, panoramic roof systems are among the most popular because they cover not just the front seat but also second and sometimes even third rows of seating. Many BMW cars and SUVs include panoramic roof systems as standard equipment. 

Other styles include: 

  • Pop-up
  • Spoiler
  • Inbuilt
  • Top-mount
  • Solar
  • Removable
  • Electric

Experience a BMW Moonroof at BMW of North Canton

If you’d like to see the difference between a sunroof and a moonroof first-hand, schedule a test drive at BMW of North Canton. We offer many models with a variety of features so you can get a taste of several roof styles. You can find out more about which BMW vehicles have moonroofs or sunroofs when you visit our BMW information hub. We’re always adding articles about BMW models and features, which often include information about features you’ll find in different BMW models.

 

More from BMW of North Canton

  • BMW xDrive: How It Works, Models & M xDrive

        BMW xDrive is BMW’s intelligent all-wheel drive system, designed for superior traction and stability. It boosts driving confidence in all seasons, whether facing snow or rain in Northeast Ohio. Many local drivers appreciate xDrive for its reliable road grip. Keep reading to find out how BMW xDrive works, which models offer it, and…

  • 2026 BMW X3 vs 2026 Toyota RAV4

      Shopping for a new SUV in North Canton, OH? The 2026 BMW X3 and the 2026 Toyota RAV4 represent two top options in the compact SUV class, but they cater to very different needs. The X3 stands out as a luxury SUV, emphasizing premium features and performance, while the RAV4 is a popular choice…

  • BMW 4 Series vs 3 Series: Which to Choose?

        Looking to compare the BMW 3 Series and BMW 4 Series for your next luxury vehicle? Both models are renowned in their class, offering strong performance, style, and advanced technology. At BMW of North Canton, drivers from North Canton, Akron, Canton, Massillon, and Alliance can explore these two favorites side by side. This…

We will be closed July 4th. Happy 4th of July.

Contact Us

Contact Us

Get Directions

6461 Whipple Avenue NW, North Canton, OH, 44720
BMW of North Canton 40.8752455, -81.4266616.