Which Car Models Have Apple CarPlay as Standard or Optional Equipment?

Apple CarPlay is now available in the vast majority of new vehicles sold today, including recent models from former holdouts like Toyota, Lexus, and Mazda. This smartphone integration system projects a simplified version of your iPhone's interface onto your car's dashboard screen, allowing for safer, more intuitive access to navigation, communication, and entertainment apps while driving. Based on industry data for model years 2019 and 2020, CarPlay is either standard or an available option on over 90% of new cars.

How Does Apple CarPlay Work and What Are Its Key Benefits?

Apple CarPlay is designed to minimize distraction by leveraging the power of your iPhone. Most systems require a physical connection using a Lightning cable, though some luxury brands like BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz offer wireless CarPlay in models equipped with built-in Wi-Fi.

The primary advantages include:

• Superior Navigation: Unlike many built-in car systems, CarPlay gives you access to real-time traffic, road hazards, and police alerts from apps like Waze, Google Maps, and Apple Maps. The system provides turn-by-turn directions directly on your car's display.
• Voice-Controlled Communication: Using the "Hey Siri" voice command or a steering wheel button, you can make phone calls, send and receive text messages, and listen to your messages aloud without taking your hands off the wheel.
• Seamless Audio Entertainment: Control popular audio apps like Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, and SiriusXM through the car's interface. The familiar app icons make it easy to select your preferred music, podcasts, or audiobooks.

What Are the Must-Have Features of Apple CarPlay?

While the app selection is broad, several features are considered essential for the modern driver. The most critical is arguably real-time navigation. Built-in car navigation systems often rely on outdated maps and lack live traffic updates. CarPlay mirrors your preferred navigation app, ensuring you always have the most current route information.

Hands-free calling and messaging are also vital for safety. The voice-to-text functionality allows you to communicate while keeping your focus on the road. Furthermore, the integration of third-party audio apps means you never have to fumble with your phone to change a song or podcast episode, creating a more integrated and less distracting driving experience.

Which Car Brands and Models Offer Apple CarPlay?

As of the 2020 model year, CarPlay availability is nearly universal. Brands that were once notable for excluding it, including Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Mazda, and Toyota, now offer the feature on many of their newest models. The following table provides a snapshot of availability across major automakers for recent model years.

This list is not exhaustive but demonstrates the wide-ranging adoption of the technology across economy, luxury, truck, and SUV segments.

Key Considerations Before You Buy

When shopping for a new or used car, verifying Apple CarPlay compatibility is crucial. Keep these points in mind:

• Confirm the Connection Type: Most cars use a wired connection. If wireless functionality is important to you, check the specific trim level and options, as it is often reserved for higher-end models or packages.
• Check for Standard vs. Optional Equipment: On some base model trims, CarPlay might be part of an optional technology package. Always confirm with the dealer or the vehicle's window sticker.
• Understand the Limitations: While CarPlay is excellent for phone-based functions, it does not replace the car's native systems for settings like climate control or vehicle diagnostics.

For the safest and most connected driving experience, prioritizing a vehicle with Apple CarPlay is a wise decision. Its ability to integrate your digital life seamlessly into your drive, combined with its now near-universal availability, makes it one of the most valuable technology features in any modern car.