Moon Roof

[JParsonss]

Thoughts on why they designed the new moon roof to not open? My thought is I have the 31 inch tv and maybe they thought it would cause issues with that.

[ewoody]

You can't open the sunroof anymore... even without TV.

The only annoyimg thing with the TV is that it closes the sunroof shades every time you park the car and you have to open it manually again.

[DroMike]

While I certainly wasn't part of the decision-making process, my guesses as to why they designed the sun/moonroof not to open would probably be because:

(1) they have an above-average predisposition for failing and/or leaking over time;

(2) one can still open any and all windows or use mechanisms to introduce fresh or conditioned air into the cabin (and really, unless you have severe respiratory considerations, how much volume of air does one need anyway...?);

(3) they allow less wind resistance for better MPG or eMPH (for ICE or E-vehicles, resp.); and

(4) they're meant merely to allow one enjoyment of the extra light and warming sun in the daytime, and mystery of the moon and stars at night free from being assaulted by violent slices of air around your head.

Also, it's kind of cool that it doesn't need to herald its existence by being seen ostentatiously from the outside, when instead, it's portal to the sky can only be revealed from the inside as a classy surprise -- which is perhaps the reason why BMW doesn't call it a sun or moon roof, but a "Sky Lounge." I like it this way!

[SW17LS]

Originally Posted by DroMike

(1) they have an above-average predisposition for failing and/or leaking over time

People always say this, but all the vehicles I have owned have had opening sunroofs and none have ever leaked.

I'd much rather the roof open.

[pegogetem]

Originally Posted by DroMike

While I certainly wasn't part of the decision-making process, my guesses as to why they designed the sun/moonroof not to open would probably be because:

(1) they have an above-average predisposition for failing and/or leaking over time;

(2) one can still open any and all windows or use mechanisms to introduce fresh or conditioned air into the cabin (and really, unless you have severe respiratory considerations, how much volume of air does one need anyway...?);

(3) they allow less wind resistance for better MPG or eMPH (for ICE or E-vehicles, resp.); and

(4) they're meant merely to allow one enjoyment of the extra light and warming sun in the daytime, and mystery of the moon and stars at night free from being assaulted by violent slices of air around your head.

Also, it's kind of cool that it doesn't need to herald its existence by being seen ostentatiously from the outside, when instead, it's portal to the sky can only be revealed from the inside as a classy surprise — which is perhaps the reason why BMW doesn't call it a sun or moon roof, but a "Sky Lounge." I like it this way!

I like this one! 😎

[seans]

Roof weight, drag (efficiency), and to compete with Tesla’s industry-changing design of panoramic glass roofs.

[SW17LS]

The i7 weighs 6,000 lbs, I don't think its weight. Its following Tesla, IMO.

[Streamliner]

As a long time MB driver, who is thinking of going I7, I would MUCH prefer it if the glass roof was optional. I much prefer the old fashioned “moon roof,” or a solid steel roof. To me, on lighter colored cars, the black glass roof completely changes the look of the car, in a way that I don’t care for.

[rollingtaser]

Originally Posted by Streamliner

As a long time MB driver, who is thinking of going I7, I would MUCH prefer it if the glass roof was optional. I much prefer the old fashioned “moon roof,” or a solid steel roof. To me, on lighter colored cars, the black glass roof completely changes the look of the car, in a way that I don’t care for.

absolutely! drove an MB S myself before the i7...

as driver you don't benefit from the glass roof, it's too far back - as a negative benefit you get the sun heating up the car, it's really unpleasant

[Berliner]

Really? For me personally the ambient lighting of the roof and the roof itself are some of the most relaxing and wonderful "extras" I ever had. I wouldn't drive the car without the Sky Lounge option to be honest.

Love how it brings light into the car, creating such a cozy and warm atmosphere

It's fascinating how different personal taste can be :-)

[Ice4life]

With all the bubbling sky lounge roofs I'm happy I don't have that option