Sunroofs, once limited to luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW, have rapidly entered the mass car market in India. In recent years, the feature has appeared in vehicles priced between Rs 8 lakh
and Rs 10 lakh, with automobile companies aggressively promoting it as a key differentiator. But how practical is a sunroof in Indian driving and climate conditions?
Challenges of Sunroofs in the Indian Climate
Extreme heat: Large parts of India face harsh sunlight for nearly 8-9 months a year. The glass panel of a sunroof often traps heat inside the cabin, creating a greenhouse effect. This leads to a sharp rise in interior temperature and forces the air-conditioning system to work harder.
Dust and pollution: In most urban centres, high levels of dust and air pollution make it impractical to keep the sunroof open. Opening it frequently results in dirty interiors, discouraging regular use.
Leakage and maintenance: Over time, rubber seals around sunroofs can harden and crack, increasing the risk of water leakage during the monsoon. Blocked drainage channels can further worsen the problem, sometimes leading to electrical failures.
Safety concerns: Using a sunroof as a viewing or posing point has become a trend, particularly on highways. Standing through a sunroof is illegal and dangerous. Sudden braking or uneven roads can cause serious neck injuries or even eject a passenger from the vehicle.
Is a Sunroof Even Beneficial?
Despite these drawbacks, sunroofs do offer some practical advantages.
- Sense of space: The cabin feels more open and airy, which can be comforting for passengers who feel claustrophobic.
- Heat release: When a car is parked under direct sunlight, opening the sunroof slightly allows hot air to escape quickly, helping reduce cabin temperature.
- Leisure use: In hilly regions or during winter months, sunroofs can enhance the driving experience by letting in fresh air and sunlight.
- Resale value: With demand for sunroof-equipped cars rising, such vehicles often command a better resale price in the used-car market.
Automakers are aware that buyers have become increasingly feature-driven. In many models, sunroofs are offered only in top-end variants. Buyers looking for this single feature are often compelled to pay an additional Rs 1-2 lakh for bundled upgrades such as premium interiors, larger wheels and extra technology. Industry experts see this as a conscious marketing strategy rather than a consumer necessity.
In densely populated and polluted cities like Delhi, Noida and Mumbai, sunroofs are likely to be used sparingly, often no more than a few times a year. For most owners, the sunroof remains a feel-good feature that adds perceived value, rather than a truly essential utility for daily driving.
