What is a panoramic sunroof? Many drivers claim that this is a piece of the puzzle that enhances the appearance of a vehicle.
It makes the car more stylish and elegant thanks to its sunlight-reflecting transparency.
The panoramic sunroof is quite popular, but is it really effective? Let’s follow us for more details.
What Is A Panoramic Sunroof In Cars?
A panoramic sunroof is a huge panel on the car’s roof. It covers most or the whole roof of a car and gives the occupants a panoramic view of the car roof.
This transparent glass is said to be a standard for high-end cars.
Panoramic Sunroof Function
What is a panoramic roof? To get the answer, you should know one of the main functions of the panoramic sunroof is to help reduce heat build-up in the vehicle.
In hot weather, heat often accumulates on the roof of the car.
Opening the panoramic sunroof helps heat escape, reducing heat and discomfort for drivers. In addition, doing so also helps to remove toxic gasses that accumulate in the vehicle, especially new cars.
The plastic and leather parts of the new car interior often have a rather unpleasant smell. If it is left in an enclosed space for a long time, it will harm the health of the occupants.
Like other sunroofs, the panoramic one is an escape path in case of force majeure, such as the side of the car getting stuck or the car falling into a river.
Besides, whenever you don’t want to open the air conditioning, you can open this roof cover instead of the side doors when the outside smoke is too much.
It is because smoke and dust will be difficult to get into the car from the top.
Panoramic Sunroof Vs Regular Sunroof
Size And Material
Instead of just covering a part of the roof above the front seats as regular sunroofs, the panoramic ones are larger. It allows occupants to see the outside scenery with extra visibility.
Besides, sometimes the parking lot you will enter has a rather low ceiling. The large size of the sunroof will help you avoid scraping the roof when you are about to enter the parking lot.
The panoramic sunroofs are always made of laminated glass, while the material that is made of regular ones can be glass, painted metal, or painted plastic.
Light And Style
The panoramic sunroof is designed with a large glass, allowing more natural light into the car’s cabin. It makes the space inside the car look more spacious and airy.
In addition, the open space will help improve the mood of the people inside the car. It will make your trip more comfortable.
Another plus of the panorama roof is the tinted glass option. This darker option can help protect the people in the car from the scorching sun. This style also helps the car become more luxurious.
Should We Get A Car With A Panoramic Sunroof? Why?
Many drivers believe that a car with a panoramic glass roof should not be chosen for a few reasons.
Increase Heat In The Car
Its first weakness is the inconvenience when the outside temperature is too high. It is because the material of the panoramic roof is not insulated.
And if the air conditioner does not work when the temperature inside the car increases, it may cause damage to the facilities inside.
Besides, it loses the structural integrity of the car. Monolithic cars are always stronger and safer than cars with a hole in the top.
The panoramic roof made of glass will not be sturdy and may crack or break when tree branches or large objects fall on it.
In addition, the center of gravity of this sunroof is tilted forward, so it will unbalance the vehicle’s weight. Specifically, the rear seat part of the car will be lighter than the front.
Add More Weight And Consumes More Fuel
If the sunroof is opened, the wind force and the weight of the glass and other control systems will increase, creating pressure for the vehicle while moving.
It causes the car engine to consume more fuel than usual.
In addition, the design of this glass roof takes up more space than the regular sunroof. It narrows the space above the car roof, making it inconvenient for taller drivers.
High Maintenance Cost
Luxury things are always expensive. The maintenance costs of a car with a panarama roof will be higher than other regular sunroofs.
After a while, the glass can get scratched and cracked, and the waterproof rubber seals can lose their effectiveness.
Besides, if it is not maintained for a long time, it will be stuck and cannot be closed. When the roof is left open in the rain, it’ll lead to many electrical faults.
It would be best to take time to bring it to maintenance facilities to check, repair, and replace damaged parts to avoid serious damage later.
Thus, with the above disadvantages, many drivers think that this panoramic glass roof is only suitable in areas with mild, cool weather.
FAQs
What Are Some Cars Suitable With Panoramic Sunroofs?
The top familiar models that can be designed with the panoramic sunroof are Audi and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Coupe, going in line with the trendy style.
Hyundai is also equipped with practical style, so choosing the panoramic sunroof will help your car look more elegant.
Some Hyundai models have a quite sporty build. If you want to add the panoramic roof, you need to consider it carefully.
The BMW Sports Wagon also offers a sunroof lift and slide controlled by the car’s electrical system, making your rides more enjoyable and comfortable.
What Is The Difference Between Panoramic Sunroofs And Moonroofs?
What is a panoramic moonroof? Basically, a panoramic roof is a moonroof with huge glass panels covering the above row of seats.
Initially, the moonroof was designed to be transparent, then it was diversified by the tinted glasses.
The materials for the frame, cushions, and glass will make the passengers feel hotter in the summer and colder in the winter.
In short, the design and materials of the sunroof and moonroof are indiscernible.
Conclusion
What is a panoramic sunroof? It’s a large glass and solid panel covering the car’s roof. It is larger than other sunroofs and offers aesthetic and usability benefits.
However, it would be best to consider arming your car with this part, as it also has some weak points. Hope you find this article useful.
See you in the next posts!