A vehicle roof panel attachment assembly includes a substructure, a fastening device, a roof panel, and a side panel. The fastening device is engaged to the substructure and projects through an opening in the substructure. The roof panel includes a top portion spaced above the substructure, a flange, and a bend feature disposed between the top portion and the flange. The flange projects, at least in-part, downward from the bend feature and is engaged to the fastening device. The side panel includes an outer segment and an inner segment projecting, at least in-part, downward from the outer segment. A seam is carried by and between the bend feature and the inner segment.