Best Panoramic Sunroof Cars in India
Key Highlights:
- List of cars with a sunroof
- Types of sunroofs
- Segment-wise list of cars with a sunroof
- Why panoramic sunroofs win in India?
We have all wanted the feeling of driving a convertible car with its top down, feeling the wind in our hair and enjoying the skylight. But not all of us can get that dream convertible, nor is it practical to drive one in our cities with the top completely down. In modern-day production cars, what comes close to giving us a bit of the feel of a convertible in a budget-friendly manner is the humble sunroof.
This has become one feature that Indian car buyers cannot get enough of. The first factory-installed sunroof in a production car appeared in 1937 on the Nash Rambler, featuring a sliding metal panel. What was once found only as a luxury feature on high-end cars now comes as standard in hatchback and compact SUVs alike. Most new-age Indian car buyers want one in their next purchase, and the size of the sunroof matters a great deal.
The open-sky vibe that the sunroof gives without compromising on the comfort of the car is a huge draw. The bigger the better is the mantra when it comes to sunroofs in Indian cars; these expansive glass panels light up cabins and make highway drives feel more alive.
Let’s do a deep dive into what the world of Indian cars with sunroofs looks like. Here is our segment-wise list of the cars with panoramic sunroofs.
Compact SUVs
In this segment, the Kia Syros leads the pack, with the most value for money option in the panoramic sunroof SUV category. It teams the sunroof with a premium cabin and class-leading space. It can be called a benchmark-setter among subcompacts.
The Mahindra XUV 3XO also has a single-pane sunroof stretching generously across the roofline. The car is known for its overall build quality and performance, and the panoramic sunroof makes it a wholesome car for the new-age Indian car buyer. Some experts feel that the car also offers significant headroom, and the sunroof makes it more airy and light inside the cabin.
The crowd favourite Tata Nexon also comes with a panoramic sunroof. This only enhances the appeal of the vehicle, which is also known for its safety and pricing.
Mid-Size SUVs
One of the bestselling mid-size SUVs, the 2025 facelifted Hyundai Creta comes with a voice-enabled panoramic sunroof in its higher trims. The new addition transforms commutes into scenic cruises and makes the already bestselling SUV an even more tempting option in this segment.
The other compact SUV that has been getting its exteriors right for the Indian buyers is the Kia Seltos. It now comes with a dual-pane panoramic sunroof that offers a wide, uninterrupted view of the sky, enhancing cabin luxury and ambience. The higher variants support voice commands in multiple languages to enhance the user experience.
The Mahindra XUV700 remains a general favourite with its massive single-pane roof spanning front-to-rear. Many people are special fans of its Ebony Edition with its blacked-out cabin and captain seats, creating an ultra-airy lounge on wheels.
Another crowd pleaser, the Mahindra Thar Roxx has a panoramic sunroof, the largest in its sub-4.5m segment, available on select higher variants like MX5 and AX7 L. In the lower variants, you get a single-pane electrically adjustable sunroof. This sunroof is positioned in such a way that it benefits rear passengers more.
Premium SUVs
The duo by Tata Motors – Tata Safari and Harrier offer a panoramic sunroof in their Adventure+ trims. The cars combine performance, safety, with class-leading luxury, giving the buyers everything they want at a competitive price point.
Then we have the MG Hector, which pioneered the sunroof craze. It comes with a single pane electric panoramic option that is still a buyer favourite.
Lastly, we have the Jeep Compass that brings rugged luxury with an openable panoramic sunroof. If you are looking for a fun-to-drive 4x4 with a sunroof, Jeep has you covered.
Why Panoramic Sunroofs Win in India?
Indian car buyers are not letting go of the sunroof craze anytime soon. The popularity of the sunroofs comes from a blend of aspirational appeal and enhanced driving experiences. These roofs elevate a car's perceived luxury, signalling status and sophistication to young urban buyers and families. Also, in a country like India with its ample sunshine and natural vistas, sunroofs allow for ample natural light, creating an airy, spacious feel that transforms commutes and long drives. They are perfect for hill drives and scenic trips.
FAQs
1. How to maintain a sunroof?
The sunroof mechanism is different in different cars. It is one spot that can accumulate dust and moisture, causing damage to your car. So maintaining it is a must. Make sure you clean tracks and seals regularly with mild soap to remove dirt, then get the moving parts lubricated every time you take your car for a service. Professional servicing every 10,000-15,000 km ensures longevity.
2. What are the safety risks of a sunroof?
There are chances of sunroof glass breakage due to debris, heat, or defects, potentially shattering unexpectedly. If your car rolls over in a crash, it can throw the passenger out of the vehicle, increasing the ejection hazard. Often, passengers also misuse the sunroof by standing out of open sunroofs. This can be very dangerous and is illegal in India, and attracts a fine.
3. What are the types of sunroofs?
The most common types of sunroofs include sliding panels, tilting mechanisms, and expansive glass setups. They have varying operations, sizes, and features. Here is a detailed look at them:
Panoramic sunroof: It has a large glass panel covering much of the roof. It is often fixed or slightly sliding, for unobstructed sky views and light.
Tilt-and-slide sunroof: This mechanism tilts upward for air or slides back into the roof. These types of sunroofs balance ventilation and headroom.
Pop-Up sunroof: This is often found in some entry-level cars. It is a simple mechanism that lifts the rear edge for the breeze.