Sunroof Types

Pop-up sunroofs are simply a manually operated tilting panel. These panels are usually removable, and like T-roofs must be stored when removed. The tilting action provides a vent in the roof, or a full opening when the panel is removed. Pop-ups can be installed in most vehicles, and are relatively inexpensive. Familiar examples include metal panels in Porsche 944, early Mazda RX-7 and many glass panel factory and aftermarket installations.

Spoiler sunroofs (tilt-&-slides) combine the features of a pop-up with those of a sliding roof system. They tilt to vent and slide open above the roof, requiring little headroom or roof length. Spoilers typically do not provide as large an opening as other roof system’s but offer the convenience of a self-storing panel. Most spoiler roofs are electric, with optional features like integrated sun shades and express open/close. Spoilers are ideal for short roof vehicles where other types of sliders can’t be installed. Familiar examples include Honda CRX, Saturn SC, and Mazda RX-8.

Inbuilt sunroof systems have a panel which slides between the metal roof and interior headliner, requiring some loss of headroom but providing a full opening in the roof. All inbuilt slide inside the roof, while some also include a rear venting feature (see pop-up), and/or express open/close functions. Inbuilt don’t fit every vehicle, as the panel must slide and store completely within the vehicle roof. Historically, inbuilt were a metal sunroof panel painted to match the vehicle roof, but now most are glass-panel systems with sliding sunshades (typically referred to as moonroofs).

Folding sunroofs (often called rag-tops or Cabrio coach) are a European tradition. They offer the convenience of a sunroof, with an opening more like a convertible. The panel is made of fabric (often vinyl), which folds back as it slides open. After a long absence in European and North American Markets, folding sunroofs have experienced a resurgence with several new factory-installed options. Aftermarket versions were once only manual but now are also available in powered versions. Familiar examples include the original VW Beetle, Renault Twingo, and Jeep Liberty.